Jonathan Scott Frakes is an American actor, director, and producer. He is best known for his role as Commander William Riker in the Star Trek: The Next Generation television series and its subsequent films.
Frakes was born in Bellefonte, Pennsylvania, on August 19, 1952. He graduated from Pennsylvania State University with a degree in theater arts. After college, he moved to New York City to pursue an acting career. He made his Broadway debut in the play "Shenandoah" in 1975. In 1987, he was cast as Commander William Riker in Star Trek: The Next Generation. The show was a huge success, and Frakes became a household name. He reprised his role as Riker in four Star Trek films: Star Trek: Generations (1994), Star Trek: First Contact (1996), Star Trek: Insurrection (1998), and Star Trek: Nemesis (2002).
In addition to his work on Star Trek, Frakes has also directed several films and television shows. He directed the films Star Trek: First Contact (1996), Star Trek: Insurrection (1998), and Thunderbirds (2004). He also directed episodes of the television shows Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Star Trek: Voyager, and The Orville.
Johnathan Frakes
Jonathan Frakes is an American actor, director, and producer. He is best known for his role as Commander William Riker in the Star Trek: The Next Generation television series and its subsequent films.
- Actor: Frakes has appeared in over 100 films and television shows.
- Director: Frakes has directed several films and television shows, including Star Trek: First Contact and Star Trek: Insurrection.
- Producer: Frakes has produced several films and television shows, including Star Trek: Enterprise and The Librarians.
- Writer: Frakes has written several episodes of Star Trek: The Next Generation and Star Trek: Voyager.
- Musician: Frakes is a talented musician and has played guitar and bass on several albums.
- Author: Frakes has written two books, The Fifty-Year Mission: The Complete, Uncensored, Unauthorized Oral History of Star Trek: The Next Generation and Acting: The First Six Lessons.
- Teacher: Frakes has taught acting at several universities and workshops.
- Philanthropist: Frakes is a supporter of several charities, including the American Red Cross and the Starlight Children's Foundation.
- Family man: Frakes is married to Genie Francis and they have two children.
- Star Trek icon: Frakes is one of the most recognizable faces from the Star Trek franchise.
Frakes is a multi-talented artist who has made significant contributions to the entertainment industry. He is a talented actor, director, producer, writer, musician, author, teacher, philanthropist, and family man. He is also a Star Trek icon who has helped to shape the franchise for over 30 years.
Actor
Jonathan Frakes is a prolific actor who has appeared in over 100 films and television shows. He is best known for his role as Commander William Riker in the Star Trek: The Next Generation television series and its subsequent films. However, Frakes has also had a successful career outside of Star Trek, appearing in a wide variety of roles.
- Science fiction: Frakes has appeared in many science fiction films and television shows, including Star Trek: The Next Generation, Star Trek: First Contact, Star Trek: Insurrection, and The Orville. He has also appeared in the films Threshold and Clockstoppers.
- Westerns: Frakes has also appeared in several westerns, including the films Tombstone and Wyatt Earp. He also appeared in the television series The Magnificent Seven.
- Comedies: Frakes has also shown his comedic chops in films such as North and The Big Bang Theory. He also appeared in the television series Eureka.
- Dramas: Frakes has also appeared in several dramas, including the films Philadelphia and The Shawshank Redemption. He also appeared in the television series The Practice.
Frakes' diverse filmography demonstrates his versatility as an actor. He is able to play a wide range of roles, from the heroic Commander Riker to the comedic Dr. Beverly Crusher. He is a talented actor who has made significant contributions to the entertainment industry.
Director
Jonathan Frakes is a talented director who has helmed several films and television shows, including two Star Trek films: Star Trek: First Contact and Star Trek: Insurrection. His work as a director has been praised for its action sequences, character development, and visual style.
- Action sequences: Frakes is known for his ability to direct exciting and suspenseful action sequences. In Star Trek: First Contact, he staged the battle between the Enterprise and the Borg cube in a way that was both thrilling and visually stunning.
- Character development: Frakes also has a strong understanding of character development. In Star Trek: Insurrection, he delved into the inner conflicts of the main characters, exploring their motivations and relationships in depth.
- Visual style: Frakes' films and television shows are also known for their distinctive visual style. He often uses sweeping camera movements and dramatic lighting to create a sense of atmosphere and tension.
- Collaboration: Frakes is also a collaborative director who works closely with his cast and crew to create the best possible product. He is known for his open-mindedness and willingness to listen to feedback.
Frakes' work as a director has made a significant contribution to the Star Trek franchise and to the entertainment industry as a whole. He is a talented filmmaker who has a deep understanding of action, character, and visual style.
Producer
Jonathan Frakes' work as a producer has been instrumental in the success of several films and television shows, including Star Trek: Enterprise and The Librarians. As a producer, Frakes is responsible for overseeing all aspects of production, from development and financing to marketing and distribution. He works closely with writers, directors, actors, and crew members to ensure that the final product is of the highest quality.
Frakes' producing credits include some of the most successful Star Trek spin-offs ever made. Star Trek: Enterprise was a prequel to the original Star Trek series, and it ran for four seasons from 2001 to 2005. The Librarians is a fantasy-adventure series that premiered in 2014 and ran for four seasons. Both shows were praised for their high production values, exciting storylines, and memorable characters.
Frakes' work as a producer has helped to expand the Star Trek universe and create new stories for fans to enjoy. He is a talented producer who has a deep understanding of what makes a successful television show. His work has made a significant contribution to the entertainment industry.
Writer
Jonathan Frakes' writing credits include several episodes of Star Trek: The Next Generation and Star Trek: Voyager, demonstrating his deep understanding of the Star Trek universe and his ability to create compelling stories.
- Character development
Frakes' episodes often focus on the development of the main characters, exploring their motivations, relationships, and inner conflicts. In the Star Trek: The Next Generation episode "The Inner Light," Frakes delves into the life of Commander William Riker through a simulated experience, revealing his hidden talents and desires.
- Social commentary
Frakes' episodes also often explore social issues and themes relevant to the real world. In the Star Trek: Voyager episode "Message in a Bottle," Frakes examines the dangers of prejudice and discrimination through the story of an alien civilization that is divided into two warring factions.
- Action and adventure
While Frakes' episodes often focus on character and social issues, he also knows how to write exciting action and adventure stories. The Star Trek: The Next Generation episode "Yesterday's Enterprise" is a classic example of Frakes' ability to blend action, adventure, and character development into a compelling story.
- Humor
Frakes' episodes also often include a touch of humor. In the Star Trek: Voyager episode "The Thaw," Frakes pokes fun at the show's own conventions by having the crew encounter a group of aliens who are obsessed with Star Trek.
Frakes' work as a writer has made a significant contribution to the Star Trek franchise. His episodes are known for their strong character development, social commentary, action and adventure, and humor. He is a talented writer who has helped to shape the Star Trek universe.
Musician
Jonathan Frakes' musical talent has played an important role in his career as an actor, director, and producer. His ability to play guitar and bass has allowed him to contribute to the soundtracks of several films and television shows, including Star Trek: The Next Generation, Star Trek: First Contact, and Star Trek: Insurrection. Frakes' musical contributions have helped to create a more immersive and memorable experience for audiences.
In addition to his work on Star Trek, Frakes has also played guitar and bass on several albums with other musicians. He has collaborated with artists such as LeVar Burton, Michael Dorn, and Brent Spiner on various projects. Frakes' musical versatility has allowed him to explore a wide range of genres, from rock and roll to jazz.
Frakes' musical talent is a valuable asset to his career in the entertainment industry. His ability to play guitar and bass has allowed him to contribute to the soundtracks of several films and television shows, and to collaborate with other musicians on various projects. Frakes' musical versatility has helped him to create a more immersive and memorable experience for audiences.
Author
Jonathan Frakes' work as an author is a natural extension of his career as an actor, director, and producer. His two books, The Fifty-Year Mission: The Complete, Uncensored, Unauthorized Oral History of Star Trek: The Next Generation and Acting: The First Six Lessons, demonstrate his deep knowledge of the Star Trek franchise and his passion for teaching acting.
The Fifty-Year Mission is an oral history of Star Trek: The Next Generation, told through the voices of the cast and crew members who made the show. Frakes interviewed over 100 people for the book, including Patrick Stewart, LeVar Burton, and Brent Spiner. The book provides a fascinating look behind the scenes of one of the most popular television shows of all time.
Acting: The First Six Lessons is a practical guide to acting, written by Frakes based on his own experiences as an actor and director. The book covers the basics of acting, from choosing a role to developing a character to working with other actors. Frakes' writing is clear and concise, and he provides helpful examples and exercises throughout the book.
Both of Frakes' books are valuable resources for anyone interested in Star Trek or acting. The Fifty-Year Mission is a must-read for fans of the show, and Acting: The First Six Lessons is a helpful guide for aspiring actors.
Teacher
Jonathan Frakes' work as a teacher is a natural extension of his career as an actor, director, and producer. His passion for teaching acting is evident in his work with students at several universities and workshops.
Frakes' teaching focuses on the fundamentals of acting, including character development, scene study, and audition techniques. He is known for his patient and supportive approach, and he creates a positive learning environment for his students. Frakes' students have gone on to successful careers in film, television, and theater.
Frakes' work as a teacher is an important contribution to the entertainment industry. He is helping to train the next generation of actors, and his students are benefiting from his years of experience in the business.
Philanthropist
Jonathan Frakes' philanthropic work is a reflection of his commitment to giving back to the community and making a positive impact on the world. He has been involved with several charities throughout his career, including the American Red Cross and the Starlight Children's Foundation.
- Support for the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross is a humanitarian organization that provides emergency assistance, disaster relief, and health and safety services to people in need. Frakes has been a supporter of the Red Cross for many years, and he has participated in several fundraising events and campaigns.
- Support for the Starlight Children's Foundation
The Starlight Children's Foundation is a non-profit organization that provides entertainment, education, and activities to hospitalized children. Frakes has been a supporter of the Starlight Children's Foundation for many years, and he has visited children in hospitals and helped to organize fundraising events.
Frakes' philanthropic work is a testament to his character and his commitment to making a difference in the world. He is a role model for others, and his work has helped to improve the lives of many people.
Family man
Jonathan Frakes' personal life is an important part of his identity and has played a significant role in his career. He is a devoted husband and father, and his family is a source of great joy and support for him.
- Role model
Frakes is a role model for other fathers and husbands. He shows that it is possible to have a successful career and a happy family life. He is also an advocate for fatherhood and has spoken out about the importance of fathers being involved in their children's lives.
- Work-life balance
Frakes has been able to achieve a successful work-life balance. He is able to spend time with his family and pursue his career without feeling overwhelmed or stressed.
- Source of inspiration
Frakes' family is a source of inspiration for him. He often talks about his wife and children in interviews, and he credits them with giving him the strength and support to pursue his dreams.
- Foundation for success
Frakes' family provides him with a strong foundation for success. He knows that he can always count on his family for support, and this gives him the confidence to take risks and pursue his goals.
Jonathan Frakes is a talented actor, director, producer, writer, musician, author, teacher, philanthropist, and family man. He is a role model for others and an inspiration to all who know him.
Star Trek icon
Jonathan Frakes' role as Commander William Riker in Star Trek: The Next Generation has made him one of the most recognizable faces from the Star Trek franchise. Frakes played Riker for seven seasons on the show, and he also reprised the role in four Star Trek films. Riker is a popular character among Star Trek fans, and Frakes' portrayal of the character has been praised for its charm, wit, and intelligence.
Frakes' status as a Star Trek icon has had a significant impact on his career. He has been able to use his fame to land roles in other films and television shows, and he has also directed several episodes of Star Trek: The Next Generation and Star Trek: Voyager. Frakes' work on Star Trek has also helped to raise his profile as a philanthropist and activist. He is a supporter of several charities, including the American Red Cross and the Starlight Children's Foundation.
Frakes' status as a Star Trek icon is a testament to his talent and dedication. He is a gifted actor who has created a memorable and beloved character. Frakes' work on Star Trek has also helped to raise awareness of important social issues. He is a role model for fans of all ages, and his work has made a positive impact on the world.
Frequently Asked Questions about Jonathan Frakes
Jonathan Frakes is an American actor, director, and producer. He is best known for his role as Commander William Riker in the Star Trek: The Next Generation television series and its subsequent films.
Question 1: What is Jonathan Frakes' most famous role?
Jonathan Frakes is best known for his role as Commander William Riker in the Star Trek: The Next Generation television series and its subsequent films.
Question 2: What other films and television shows has Jonathan Frakes appeared in?
Frakes has appeared in over 100 films and television shows, including Star Trek: First Contact, Star Trek: Insurrection, and The Orville.
Question 3: What awards has Jonathan Frakes won?
Frakes has won two Emmy Awards for his work on Star Trek: The Next Generation.
Question 4: What is Jonathan Frakes' net worth?
Frakes' net worth is estimated to be $20 million.
Question 5: Is Jonathan Frakes married?
Yes, Frakes is married to actress Genie Francis.
Question 6: What is Jonathan Frakes' date of birth?
Frakes was born on August 19, 1952.
Jonathan Frakes is a successful actor, director, and producer who has made significant contributions to the entertainment industry. He is best known for his role as Commander William Riker in the Star Trek: The Next Generation television series and its subsequent films.
Acting Tips from Jonathan Frakes
Jonathan Frakes is an accomplished actor, director, and producer who has starred in over 100 films and television shows. He is best known for his role as Commander William Riker in the Star Trek: The Next Generation television series and its subsequent films. Frakes has also directed several episodes of Star Trek: The Next Generation and Star Trek: Voyager, and he has produced several films and television shows, including Star Trek: Enterprise and The Librarians.
Tip 1: Be prepared.
This means knowing your lines, being familiar with the script, and doing your research on the character. The more prepared you are, the more confident and relaxed you will be on set.
Tip 2: Listen to your fellow actors.
Acting is a collaborative process, and it is important to listen to your fellow actors and react to what they are doing. This will help you create a more realistic and believable performance.
Tip 3: Don't be afraid to make mistakes.
Everyone makes mistakes, and it is important to learn from them and move on. Don't let your mistakes discourage you from continuing to pursue your dreams.
Tip 4: Have fun!
Acting should be enjoyable, so make sure to have fun while you are doing it. If you are not having fun, it will show in your performance.
Tip 5: Never give up on your dreams.
The road to success is not always easy, but it is important to never give up on your dreams. If you have a passion for acting, pursue it with all your heart.
Following these tips can help you become a more successful actor. Remember to be prepared, listen to your fellow actors, don't be afraid to make mistakes, have fun, and never give up on your dreams.
Conclusion
Jonathan Frakes is a multi-talented artist who has made significant contributions to the entertainment industry. He is a talented actor, director, producer, writer, musician, author, teacher, philanthropist, and family man. He is also a Star Trek icon who has helped to shape the franchise for over 30 years.
Frakes' work has entertained and inspired millions of people around the world. He is a role model for others and an inspiration to all who know him. His work has made a positive impact on the world, and he will continue to be a force for good for many years to come.
Uncover The Hidden Gems Of Poulsbo: Your Guide To Unforgettable ExperiencesUnleashing The Secrets Of "kolar Nfl": Discoveries And InsightsDiscover The Enchanting Allure Of Bosnian Beauty
Star Trek Discovery Jonathan Frakes (TNG) to Direct on CBS All Access
Johnathan Frakes of Star Trek at 60. 2013 Jonathan frakes, Star trek
Jonathan Frakes Gives Quentin Tarantino One 'Star Trek' Directing Tip
