Alan Rosenberg: The Prolific Actor and Labor Leader

A Career Marked by Versatility and Advocacy

Alan Rosenberg is perhaps best known for his iconic portrayal of Eli Levinson in the hit television series Civil Wars and L.A. Law. In addition to his impressive acting career, Rosenberg has also made a lasting impact as a labor leader, serving as the president of the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) from 2005 to 2009.

Early Life and Education

Rosenberg was born on October 4, 1950, in Passaic, New Jersey, and raised in a Conservative Jewish household. His late brother, Mark, was a political activist in the 1960s and later became a film producer. Interestingly, Rosenberg's first cousin, Donald Fagen, is the co-founder of the renowned music group Steely Dan.

Rosenberg's parents provided him with financial support to pursue higher education. However, after graduating from Case Western Reserve University in 1972, he became enamored with poker and eventually gambled away most of the money, leaving him only able to afford one graduate school application – to the Yale School of Drama.

Career Highlights and Notable Roles

Rosenberg's acting career spans over four decades, with a diverse range of film and television credits. Some of his notable roles include:

• Turkey in the 1979 film The Wanderers
• Ira Woodbine in the sitcom Cybill
• Alvin Masterson in the legal drama The Guardian
• The voice of the bounty hunter Boba Fett in NPR's adaptation of The Empire Strikes Back
• The crazed Mad Bomber in the 1986 cult classic Stewardess School
• Longtime manager Shelly Berger in the 1998 miniseries The Temptations
• Hospital legal counsel Stuart Brickman in Chicago Hope

In 1995, Rosenberg received an Emmy Award nomination for his guest-starring role in the hit drama ER.

Leadership and Advocacy

Rosenberg's tenure as SAG president was marked by his commitment to advocating for actors' rights and improving working conditions. During his presidency, he focused on issues such as residuals, union jurisdiction, and new media.

Awards and Honors

In addition to his Emmy nomination, Rosenberg has been honored with numerous awards for his contributions to the entertainment industry.

Personal Life and Anecdotes

Rosenberg's closest friend and greatest influence during his time at Yale was the esteemed actress Meryl Streep. This formative friendship had a profound impact on his approach to acting and his subsequent career.

Throughout his life, Rosenberg has been driven by a passion for his craft and a commitment to advocating for the rights of actors. His remarkable career and leadership have left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.

Legacy and Impact

Rosenberg's impressive body of work and his tireless advocacy for actors' rights have cemented his place as a respected figure in the entertainment industry. As a testament to his enduring legacy, he continues to inspire new generations of actors and industry professionals.