Names/Jeffrey/Jeffrey Tambor
EntertainmentAmerican1944 – present

Jeffrey Tambor

'Arrested Development,' 'Transparent' Emmy winner, versatile character actor

Biography

Jeffrey Michael Tambor (born July 8, 1944) is an American actor with a prolific career spanning over five decades in television, film, and theater. Born in San Francisco, Tambor trained at San Francisco State University and later at the American Conservatory Theater, establishing himself as a serious performer committed to his craft. He built a reputation as a versatile character actor, appearing in numerous television shows and films before achieving major recognition. Tambor is perhaps best known for his portrayal of George Bluth Sr., the bumbling patriarch on the cult comedy series 'Arrested Development,' for which he earned critical acclaim and multiple Emmy nominations. The role became iconic, showcasing his impeccable timing and ability to extract humor from character absurdities. He later earned an Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series for his groundbreaking role as Maura Pfefferman, a transgender woman navigating family and identity, on 'Transparent.' This role represented significant representation in television and earned widespread praise for Tambor's sensitive and nuanced performance of a character undergoing personal transformation. Beyond these major roles, Tambor has appeared in countless films and television programs, demonstrating consistent quality and professionalism throughout his career. He has also maintained an active presence in theater. Tambor's career demonstrates longevity, range, and commitment to diverse, complex roles.

The Name Jeffrey

Jeffrey Tambor represents the name's association with sustained professional excellence and the willingness to take on transformative, unconventional character work.

Quick Facts
Category

Entertainment

Nationality

American

Born

1944

Thinking about the name

Jeffrey

Germanic origin

Derived from the Germanic elements gaut (tribe) and frid (peace), Jeffrey means 'peaceful pledge' or 'peaceful spear.' This name has been borne by saints, crusaders, and countless notable figures across medieval and modern history. Jeffrey struck a perfect balance between strength and approachability, making it a perennial favorite in English-speaking cultures since the Middle Ages.

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