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Entertainment • Actor

Don Cheadle

Don Cheadle is an American actor, producer, and director known for acclaimed film, television, and stage work.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Don Cheadle is an American actor, producer, and director known for acclaimed film, television, and stage work. He became widely recognized for roles in films such as *Devil in a Blue Dress*, *Boogie Nights*, *Traffic*, and *Hotel Rwanda*, and for playing James Rhodes/War Machine in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Early life and background

Don Cheadle was born in Kansas City, Missouri, on November 29, 1964, and his birth name is Donald Frank Cheadle Jr. Sources identify him as an American actor, producer, and director.

Acting career

Cheadle is known for a wide range of film and television roles, including *Devil in a Blue Dress*, *Boogie Nights*, *Traffic*, *Hotel Rwanda*, and *House of Lies*. His performances have brought major critical and awards recognition.

Marvel and later work

Cheadle played James Rhodes/War Machine in the Marvel Cinematic Universe beginning in the 2010s. More recently, he made his Broadway debut in *Proof* in April 2026.

Other work and recognition

Cheadle has also directed and produced projects, including *Miles Ahead*, and he has been recognized for humanitarian work related to Darfur.

Key facts

  • Cheadle first gained major attention for *Devil in a Blue Dress* and received major critical recognition for the performance.
  • He received an Academy Award nomination for *Hotel Rwanda*.
  • He portrayed James Rhodes/War Machine in multiple Marvel Cinematic Universe films.
  • He starred in and helped create the film *Miles Ahead*, based on the life of Miles Davis.
  • He has also worked in television, including *House of Lies* and *Black Monday*.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Don Cheadle?
Don Cheadle is an American actor, producer, and director known for film, television, and stage roles.
When was Don Cheadle born?
He was born on November 29, 1964.
What is Don Cheadle best known for?
He is best known for *Hotel Rwanda*, *Boogie Nights*, *House of Lies*, and portraying War Machine in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Was Don Cheadle nominated for an Oscar?
Yes. He received an Academy Award nomination for *Hotel Rwanda*.
Has Don Cheadle worked on stage?
Yes. He made his Broadway debut in *Proof* in 2026.
Is Don Cheadle also a director?
Yes. He has directed projects including *Miles Ahead* and has also produced work.

References

  1. Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/biography/Don-Cheadle
    Supports: Biography, acting career overview, and humanitarian work related to Darfur.
  2. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Don_Cheadle
    Supports: Career milestones including early recognition and Broadway debut in 2026.
  3. Broadway.com — https://www.broadway.com/buzz/stars/don-cheadle/profile/
    Supports: Film, television, stage credits, directing work, and Broadway-related biography.
  4. Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/facts/Don-Cheadle
    Supports: Birth date, birthplace, notable works, and directing credits.
  5. IMDb — https://www.imdb.com/de/name/nm0000332/bio/
    Supports: Birth name, birthplace, and family details.