Alan Rachins
USAEarly Life and Education
Alan Rachins was born in Brooklyn, New York, and attended Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. However, he dropped out and later completed his degree at Empire State College. At a young age, he knew he wanted to be an actor.
Theatrical Career
Rachins moved to New York City and studied acting with William Ball, Warren Robertson, Kim Stanley, and Harvey Lembeck. For the next ten years, he performed in numerous plays, including original Broadway productions of "After the Rain" and "H'adrian the Seventh." He also appeared in "Trojan Women" and the controversial "Oh! Calcutta!"
Shift to Television and Film
In 1972, Rachins took a break from acting to work on writing and producing programs for the American Film Institute. He sold scripts to various television shows, such as "Hill Street Blues," "Fall Guy," "Hart to Hart," and "Knight Rider."
Despite his success as a writer and director, Rachins decided to return to acting. He was cast in the lead role in Henry Jaglom's independent film "Always." The film received mixed reviews but paved the way for his most famous role in "L.A. Law."
Career Highlights
Rachins' portrayal of Douglas Brackman in "L.A. Law" brought him Emmy and Golden Globe nominations. He also starred in films such as "State of Grace" with Denzel Washington and Bob Hoskins, "Showgirls" by Paul Verhoeven, and "North" by Rob Reiner.
Rachins has continued to perform on stage, appearing in the world premiere of Arthur Laurents' "Attacks of the Heart" and portraying Matthew Harrison Brady in "Inherit the Wind."
