Brett Cullen
Biography
Peter Brett Cullen, born on August 26, 1956, in Houston, Texas, is a seasoned American actor known for his extensive work in film and television. In early 2007, he took on the role of an estranged father to Tim Riggins, portrayed by Taylor Kitsch, in the acclaimed NBC drama series *Friday Night Lights*.
Cullen is the son of Lucien Hugh Cullen, an oil executive, and Catherine Cullen. He completed his high school education at Madison High School in Houston in 1974 and later graduated from the University of Houston. He expresses significant gratitude towards his acting mentor, professor Cecil Pickett, who also guided notable actors like Dennis Quaid and Brent Spiner. Cullen's long-standing friendship with Quaid began in the 1970s; he played a part in introducing Quaid to his wife, Kimberly Buffington.
His television career includes pivotal roles such as Dan Fixx in *Falcon Crest* (1986-1988) and Marshal Sam Cain in *The Young Riders* (1989-1990). He played Ray Sullivan in *The West Wing* and made guest appearances in acclaimed series like *Star Trek: Deep Space Nine* and *CSI: Miami*. Film credits include *Apollo 13*, *Something to Talk About*, and *Ghost Rider*.
In February 2011, Cullen was appointed as the official spokesman for Houston Works, an organization dedicated to job training and educational initiatives in Houston. His upcoming projects include roles in the comedy *Monte Carlo* and the war film *Red Dawn*.
Filmography
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Safe House
2025 • Marshall
Something to Talk About
1995 • Jamie Johnson
Prehysteria!
1993 • Frank
By the Sword
1991 • Gallagher
The Killing Jar
1997 • Michael Sanford
Beneath the Darkness
2012 • Sgt. Nickerson
Reminiscence
2021 • Walter Sylvan
Puncture
2011 • Nathaniel Price
American Carnage
2022 • Harper Finn
Mother of the Bride
1993 • Dennis Becker
Dead Solid Perfect
1988 • Donny Smithern
The Riot Act
2018 • Dr. Willard Pearrow
The Life Before Her Eyes
2007 • Paul McFee
Pixel Perfect
2004 • Xander
Complex of Fear
1993 • Ed Wylie
The Burning Plain
2008 • Robert
The Turkey Bowl
2019 • Ed
Reunion (2009)
2009 • Jake
Where Sleeping Dogs Lie
1991
Red Dawn (2012)
2012
It Snows All the Time
2022 • Paul
National Security
2003 • Heston