Biography
James Broderick was an American actor. Born in Charlestown, New Hampshire, he trained at the Neighborhood Playhouse in New York and began appearing in television productions in the 1950s. He gained attention for his role as Officer Ernie Brenner in the CBS series Brenner (1959–1964).
Broderick is known for his portrayal of Doug Lawrence in the television series Family (1976–1980) and for his film roles, including Ray Brock in Alice's Restaurant (1969), Denny Doyle in The Taking of Pelham One Two Three (1974) and FBI agent Sheldon in Dog Day Afternoon (1975). He also appeared on Broadway and received an Emmy nomination for his work in Family.
He was married to playwright Patricia Biow from 1949 until his death from cancer in 1982. Their son is the actor Matthew Broderick.
