Alan Barinholtz spent decades as a lawyer. Now, at 73, he’s making a name for himself in Hollywood. The retired attorney-turned-actor has become an unexpected fan favorite, thanks to his role as a judge in the hit series Jury Duty. His rise to stardom is not only delighting audiences but also amusing his famous sons, comedians Ike and Jon Barinholtz.
The Unexpected Journey from Courtrooms to Cameras
For most of his life, Alan was known for his legal expertise. Now, he’s recognized on the street for his acting chops.
His breakout role came in 2023 when he played Judge Alan Rosen in Jury Duty, a mockumentary-style comedy that turned an ordinary man’s jury service into an elaborate, unscripted social experiment. Alan’s performance as the no-nonsense yet affable judge resonated with audiences, earning the show four Emmy nominations.
“I never thought I’d be on TV at this point in my life,” Alan admitted in a past interview. “But here we are. And I’m loving it.”
Hollywood Royalty, In His Own Right
Having famous children often means living in their shadow. That’s no longer the case for Alan.
Ike Barinholtz, best known for The Mindy Project and Blockers, jokes that his dad is now the family’s hottest talent. “He doesn’t have to live vicariously through me and Jon anymore,” Ike quipped at The Studio premiere. “He’s got his own Hollywood stories now.”
One of those stories? Casual text exchanges with James Marsden, his Jury Duty co-star. “I was texting with James the other day,” Alan reportedly told Ike, much to his son’s envy.
A Second Act Fueled by Momentum
Alan’s acting career didn’t stop with Jury Duty. In fact, it’s just getting started.
Since the series wrapped, he’s appeared in Physical, St. Denis Medical, and Running Point. Next, he’ll star alongside Ben Affleck in The Accountant 2, marking his first major role in a Hollywood action thriller. He’s also secured representation and joined the Screen Actors Guild (SAG), making his late-in-life career shift official.
His sons are even working on a secret project with him. “We’re not dropping details just yet, but it’s coming soon,” Ike teased.
From Game Show Champ to Hollywood Fixture
Alan’s TV appearances haven’t been limited to scripted roles. Last year, he and Ike teamed up for Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?, winning the $1 million jackpot for charity. Their earnings went to an American Sign Language (ASL) program at Los Encinos School, where Alan’s grandson, who is deaf, studies.
While many actors spend years trying to land their big break, Alan’s journey is proof that opportunities can come at any stage in life.
“Both my sons are now my consiglieres,” Alan said. “They advise me on everything. It’s funny, but it works.”
From “Nepo Dad” to a Name of His Own
Alan embraces his unique Hollywood story. While some call him a “nepo dad,” benefiting from his sons’ industry ties, his talent is undeniable.
His rise reflects a broader trend in entertainment—one where fresh faces aren’t necessarily young, and experience from other fields can translate into compelling performances. Jury Duty was just the beginning. With major roles on the horizon, Alan Barinholtz is proving that a second act in Hollywood can be just as exciting as the first.
