
Richard Portnow
ActingAbout Richard Portnow
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Richard Portnow (born January 26, 1947) is a prolific American character actor who played Howard Stern's father, Ben in the movie Private Parts. He has appeared on The Sopranos and many other films, video games, and television shows such as Hannah Montana and Boston Legal.
Career Statistics & Market Influence
Analyzing the cinematic journey of Richard Portnow reveals a career defined by diverse artistic exploration. With a total of 50 major appearances, the actor has established a significant footprint in global cinema.
Genre Dominance: Drama
The majority of Richard Portnow's filmography leans towards the Drama genre. Audience data suggests that viewers respond most favorably to this persona, though their versatility has allowed for successful crossovers into other categories.
The "Box Office" Signature
With a 46% Success Ratio (movies rated above 6.5), Richard Portnow remains a reliable draw for studios. Their peak performance was recorded in Se7en, which continues to be the benchmark for their career rating-wise.
Best Richard Portnow Movies Ranked
Must-watch hits from Richard Portnow's career based on audience ratings.
Complete Filmography & Success Status
Tracking the career evolution and box office verdicts of Richard Portnow.
| Year | Movie | Character | Success | More |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 | Holly Day | Benny | Average | Similar → |
| 2016 | Café Society | Walt | Average | Similar → |
| 2015 | Trumbo | Louis B. Mayer | Hit | Similar → |
| 2014 | Nanny Cam | Detective Jones | Average | Similar → |
| 2014 | This Last Lonely Place | Jason Pure | Hit | Similar → |
| 2013 | Oldboy | Bernie Sharkey | Average | Similar → |
| 2013 | Underdogs | John Handon II | Average | Similar → |
| 2012 | Hitchcock | Barney Balaban | Hit | Similar → |
| 2011 | The Christmas Pageant | Leo Brenner | Average | Similar → |
| 2011 | Witness Protection | Niko | Average | Similar → |
| 2010 | The Wish List | Lenny | Hit | Similar → |
| 2009 | Law Abiding Citizen | Bill Reynolds | Hit | Similar → |
| 2009 | Life Is Hot in Cracktown | Guy from 4 K | Average | Similar → |
| 2008 | Tinker Bell | Minister of Autumn (voice) | Hit | Similar → |
| 2007 | Perfect Stranger | Narron | Average | Similar → |
| 2007 | The Indian | Elliot | Average | Similar → |
| 2006 | Find Me Guilty | Max Novardis | Hit | Similar → |
| 2005 | Meet the Mobsters | Jerry Kaminski | Hit | Similar → |
| 2002 | Poolhall Junkies | Toupee Jay | Average | Similar → |
| 2000 | Happy Accidents | Trip | Hit | Similar → |
| 1999 | Ghost Dog: The Way of the Samurai | Handsome Frank | Hit | Similar → |
| 1998 | Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas | Wine Colored Tuxedo | Hit | Similar → |
| 1997 | Bella Mafia | Anthony Moreno | Hit | Similar → |
| 1997 | Mad City | Brackett's Agent | Average | Similar → |
| 1997 | Private Parts | Ben Stern | Average | Similar → |
| 1996 | Bogus | M. Clay Thrasher | Average | Similar → |
| 1995 | Donor Unknown | Hal Cooney | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1995 | Se7en | Dr. Beardsley | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1995 | S.F.W. | Gerald Parsley | Average | Similar → |
| 1993 | Heart and Souls | Max Marco | Hit | Similar → |
| 1992 | Sister Act | Willy | Hit | Similar → |
| 1992 | Beethoven | Ammunition Company Representative (uncredited) | Average | Similar → |
| 1991 | Father of the Bride | Al - the Tux Salesman | Hit | Similar → |
| 1991 | For the Boys | Milt, Recording Studio | Average | Similar → |
| 1991 | Barton Fink | Detective Mastrionotti | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1991 | Perry Mason: The Case of the Maligned Mobster | Dave Barrett | Hit | Similar → |
| 1990 | Kindergarten Cop | Captain Salazar | Average | Similar → |
| 1990 | Havana | Mike MacClaney | Average | Similar → |
| 1990 | Chattahoochee | Dr. Debner | Average | Similar → |
| 1989 | Meet the Hollowheads | Mr. Crabneck | Average | Similar → |
| 1989 | A Deadly Silence | D.A. Ed Jablonski | Average | Similar → |
| 1989 | Say Anything... | Agent Stewart | Hit | Similar → |
| 1988 | Twins | Chop Shop Owner | Average | Similar → |
| 1987 | Good Morning, Vietnam | Dan 'The Man' Levitan | Hit | Similar → |
| 1987 | Perry Mason: The Case of the Murdered Madam | Harry Long | Hit | Similar → |
| 1987 | Tin Men | Carly | Average | Similar → |
| 1987 | Radio Days | Sy | Hit | Similar → |
| 1987 | Wanted: Dead or Alive | Agent | Average | Similar → |
| 1986 | Courage | Frankie Ce De Baca | Average | Similar → |
| 1985 | Desperately Seeking Susan | Party Guest | Average | Similar → |
Richard Portnow - Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best movie of Richard Portnow?
According to audience ratings, the best movie starring Richard Portnow is "Se7en" with a rating of 8.4/10.
How many movies has Richard Portnow acted in?
Richard Portnow has been featured in at least 50 major films throughout their career.
What are some other popular movies by Richard Portnow?
Other notable films include "Donor Unknown", "Barton Fink", and "Law Abiding Citizen".



