Guy Van Swearingen

Born: 1963-08-31

Birthplace: Chicago, Illinois, USA

Biography

Guy Van Swearingen (born 31 August 1963, Chicago, Illinois) is an American actor and retired Chicago firefighter (Lieutenant) who is the founding artistic director of A Red Orchid Theatre. He is a Senn High School dropout who studied theatre before entering the fire academy in 1987, then returned to the stage. His film credits include Mad Dog and Glory (1993), The Negotiator (1998), Ali (2001), Public Enemies (2009), Take Shelter (2011), and Captive State (2019). On television he has appeared in Chicago Fire, Fargo, Power Book IV: Force (15 episodes), and The Bear (2026). He received Joseph Jefferson Award and Jeff Award nominations for his theatre work. He has also worked with Steppenwolf Theatre Company, Goodman Theatre, and Court Theatre.

Known For

Take Shelter
Public Enemies
The Negotiator
Risky Business
Ali
Gifted Hands: The Ben Carson Story
Captive State
The Weather Man
The Dilemma
Mad Dog and Glory

Top Movie Credits

Take Shelter Myers
Public Enemies Agent Ralph Brown
The Negotiator Officer
Risky Business Party Goer (uncredited)
Ali Induction FBI Man
Gifted Hands: The Ben Carson Story Dr. Hairston
Captive State Eddie the Priest
The Weather Man Nipper Guy
The Dilemma Saul
Mad Dog and Glory Cop