Len Cariou, born Leonard Joseph Cariou on September 30, 1939, in St. Boniface, Manitoba, Canada, is a name synonymous with excellence in the world of acting. With a career spanning over six decades, Cariou has made significant contributions to theatre, film, and television. Best known for his commanding performances on Broadway and his enduring role as Henry Reagan on the hit television series Blue Bloods, Cariou’s legacy is one of versatility, dedication, and artistry.
Early Life and Beginnings
Len Cariou grew up in a working-class family in Winnipeg, Manitoba. His early years were marked by a deep appreciation for storytelling and performance, which he cultivated while attending St. Paul’s College High School. Encouraged by his teachers to pursue acting, Cariou went on to train at the prestigious Stratford Festival in Ontario. This classical foundation laid the groundwork for his mastery of Shakespearean and other dramatic roles.
Cariou’s early theatre work in Canada included performances with the Stratford Shakespeare Festival, where he honed his craft in productions such as Macbeth and King Lear. These formative years showcased his exceptional talent and paved the way for a remarkable career on Broadway.
Broadway Stardom
Len Cariou’s Broadway debut came in 1968 when he starred in The House of Atreus. However, it was his role as Fredrik Egerman in Stephen Sondheim’s A Little Night Music (1973) that catapulted him to stardom. Cariou’s portrayal of Egerman was lauded for its depth and nuance, earning him his first Tony Award nomination. He reprised the role in the film adaptation of A Little Night Music (1977), further solidifying his reputation as a gifted performer.
Cariou’s most iconic Broadway role came in 1979, when he originated the titular character in Stephen Sondheim’s Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street. Paired with Angela Lansbury, Cariou delivered a tour-de-force performance that earned him the Tony Award for Best Actor in a Musical. His portrayal of the vengeful barber is still considered one of the finest performances in Broadway history, praised for its emotional intensity and vocal brilliance.
Beyond musicals, Cariou also excelled in dramatic roles. His performance in Arthur Miller’s All My Sons and his portrayal of Captain Shotover in George Bernard Shaw’s Heartbreak House demonstrated his range and ability to navigate complex characters. His Broadway contributions earned him a place in the American Theatre Hall of Fame in 2004.
Film and Television Career
While Cariou’s stage career remains his most celebrated, his ventures into film and television have been equally impressive. He began appearing in films during the 1970s, with notable roles in One Man (1977) and Flags of Our Fathers (2006), directed by Clint Eastwood. His ability to transition seamlessly between stage and screen is a testament to his versatility as an actor.
In television, Len Cariou has enjoyed a career of remarkable longevity. He appeared in numerous guest roles on shows such as Murder, She Wrote, Law & Order, and Damages. However, it is his portrayal of Henry Reagan, the wise and steadfast patriarch on CBS’s Blue Bloods, that has endeared him to a new generation of viewers. Since the show’s debut in 2010, Cariou’s performance as the retired NYPD Commissioner has become a cornerstone of the series. His chemistry with co-stars Tom Selleck, Donnie Wahlberg, and Bridget Moynahan adds depth and heart to the Reagan family dynamic.
A Legacy of Excellence
Len Cariou’s career is defined by his unwavering commitment to his craft. His ability to bring authenticity to every role, whether on stage or screen, has earned him widespread acclaim and numerous awards. In addition to his Tony win, Cariou has received several nominations for Emmy and Drama Desk Awards, further cementing his status as an acting legend.
Offstage, Cariou is known for his dedication to arts education and mentorship. He has worked extensively to support young actors, sharing his knowledge and passion for the performing arts. His contributions to Canadian and American theatre have been recognized with numerous accolades, including the Order of Canada, one of the country’s highest civilian honors.
Personal Life and Continued Impact
Len Cariou has managed to maintain a private personal life while remaining active in the entertainment industry. Married to Heather Summerhayes, a writer and actor, Cariou enjoys a stable family life that has supported his enduring career.
Even in his 80s, Cariou shows no signs of slowing down. He continues to appear on Blue Bloods and participates in various theatre projects, demonstrating his enduring love for the craft that has defined his life.
Conclusion
Len Cariou’s career is a testament to the transformative power of art and storytelling. From his early days on the Stratford Festival stage to his iconic Broadway performances and enduring television roles, Cariou has captivated audiences with his talent, charisma, and dedication. As he continues to inspire actors and audiences alike, Len Cariou remains a shining example of what it means to be a true artist. His legacy will undoubtedly endure, ensuring that his contributions to the performing arts are celebrated for generations to come.