Who Plays Henry LaRoche on Criminal Minds?
The popular American crime drama television series, Criminal Minds, has been entertaining audiences for over 15 years. The show has a large and dedicated fan base, and one of the most beloved characters is Henry LaRoche, the charismatic and intelligent BAU (Behavioral Analysis Unit) team leader. But who plays Henry LaRoche on Criminal Minds?
The Answer
Henry LaRoche is played by actor Ralph Waite. Waite is an American actor and director, best known for his role as John Walton Sr. on the classic TV series The Waltons. He joined the Criminal Minds cast in 2005 and appeared in several episodes throughout the show’s run.
Henry LaRoche’s Character
Henry LaRoche is a seasoned FBI agent and the leader of the BAU team. He is a highly respected and experienced profiler who has a deep understanding of human behavior and psychology. LaRoche is known for his calm and collected demeanor, as well as his ability to think outside the box and come up with innovative solutions to complex cases.
Ralph Waite’s Background
Ralph Waite was born on June 22, 1928, in Salt Lake City, Utah. He began his acting career in the 1950s, appearing in various stage productions and television shows. His breakthrough role came in 1972 when he starred as John Walton Sr. on The Waltons, a popular TV series that aired for nine seasons.
Waite’s Other Roles
In addition to his role as Henry LaRoche on Criminal Minds, Waite has appeared in numerous other TV shows and films. Some of his notable roles include:
- The Waltons (1972-1981) – John Walton Sr.
- NCIS (2005) – Henry Jenkins
- JAG (2005) – Admiral John ‘Jack’ Shepard
- The Guardian (2001-2004) – Judge Earl Stevens
- The Young and the Restless (2004) – Henry Chamberlain
Waite’s Awards and Nominations
Throughout his career, Waite has received several awards and nominations for his performances. Some of his notable awards include:
- Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series for his role as John Walton Sr. on The Waltons (1973)
- Golden Globe nomination for Best Actor in a Television Series – Drama for his role as John Walton Sr. on The Waltons (1974)
- People’s Choice Award for Favorite Male Performer in a New TV Series for his role as Henry LaRoche on Criminal Minds (2006)
Conclusion
Ralph Waite’s portrayal of Henry LaRoche on Criminal Minds is a testament to his talent and versatility as an actor. With his extensive experience in the entertainment industry, Waite has proven himself to be a talented and dedicated performer who has captivated audiences with his performances. Whether playing the lovable patriarch of The Waltons or the charismatic leader of the BAU team on Criminal Minds, Waite has left an indelible mark on the world of television.
Table: Ralph Waite’s Notable Roles
| Show/Film | Role | Year |
|---|---|---|
| The Waltons | John Walton Sr. | 1972-1981 |
| NCIS | Henry Jenkins | 2005 |
| JAG | Admiral John ‘Jack’ Shepard | 2005 |
| The Guardian | Judge Earl Stevens | 2001-2004 |
| The Young and the Restless | Henry Chamberlain | 2004 |
| Criminal Minds | Henry LaRoche | 2005 |
Bullets List: Ralph Waite’s Awards and Nominations
• Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series for his role as John Walton Sr. on The Waltons (1973)
• Golden Globe nomination for Best Actor in a Television Series – Drama for his role as John Walton Sr. on The Waltons (1974)
• People’s Choice Award for Favorite Male Performer in a New TV Series for his role as Henry LaRoche on Criminal Minds (2006)
