Len Cariou
Introduction
Len Cariou is a distinguished Canadian actor and singer, celebrated for his powerful performances on Broadway, in film, and on television. With a career spanning more than six decades, Cariou has earned his place as one of the most respected actors of his generation. From his Tony Award-winning role in Sweeney Todd to his long-running presence on Blue Bloods, Len Cariou has created an enduring legacy in the entertainment world.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born on September 30, 1939, in Saint Boniface, Manitoba, Len Cariou grew up in a working-class Canadian family. His passion for acting was ignited at an early age, and he went on to study at St. Paul’s College in Winnipeg. Although his family did not have direct connections to show business, Cariou’s love for the arts led him to pursue a career in theatre.
Cariou began his professional acting journey in the early 1960s, performing in various productions at the Manitoba Theatre Centre and other regional theatres. His early training and stage experience provided him with a strong foundation that would serve him well as he transitioned into more prominent roles in film and television.
Len Cariou Broadway Stardom: Sweeney Todd and Beyond
Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (1979)
Cariou’s breakthrough moment came in 1979 when he was cast as Sweeney Todd in Stephen Sondheim’s groundbreaking musical, Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street. His portrayal of the vengeful barber earned him critical acclaim, including a Tony Award for Best Actor in a Musical. The role became synonymous with Cariou, and he remains the definitive performer for many fans and critics.
Sweeney Todd, a dark, complex character, allowed Cariou to showcase his remarkable vocal range and intense dramatic skills. His performance in the musical is often regarded as one of the finest in Broadway history. (Sweeney Todd also won several other Tony Awards, further cementing its place as one of the most iconic productions in musical theatre.)
Other Broadway Roles
Before Sweeney Todd, Cariou appeared in several other notable Broadway productions, earning Tony Award nominations for his work in A Little Night Music (1973) and Applause (1970). These early roles helped establish him as a talented and versatile performer in the Broadway community.
Later Broadway Work
Following Sweeney Todd, Len Cariou continued to perform in a variety of productions. His Broadway credits include performances in **A Little Night Music, The King and I, and Copenhagen. Throughout his career, Cariou has maintained a reputation for his commanding stage presence and ability to take on challenging and complex characters.
Len Cariou Television and Film Career
While Len Cariou’s name is synonymous with Broadway, his talent has extended into television and film, where he has played a wide array of characters.
Blue Bloods (2010–Present)
Cariou gained widespread television recognition for his role as Henry Reagan, the retired Police Commissioner and patriarch of the Reagan family, in the hit CBS series Blue Bloods. His portrayal of Henry Reagan, the wise and steady head of a law enforcement family, became a fan favorite over the years. The show, which premiered in 2010, allowed Cariou to demonstrate his skills in a more dramatic, serialized format. His performances in Blue Bloods have been praised for their warmth, depth, and authenticity.
Film Appearances
In addition to his television work, Cariou has had a successful career in film. Some of his notable appearances include:
- About Schmidt (2002) – A poignant film directed by Alexander Payne, where Cariou played a supporting role alongside Jack Nicholson.
- Flags of Our Fathers (2006) – Directed by Clint Eastwood, Cariou played a key role in this World War II drama.
- The Four Seasons (1981) – A drama directed by Alan Alda, where Cariou starred alongside a talented ensemble cast.
His ability to transition seamlessly from stage to screen has allowed him to become a versatile actor with a broad range of performances in both dramatic and comedic roles.
Len Cariou Music and Singing Career
In addition to his acting career, Len Cariou is also an accomplished singer. His work in musical theatre has allowed him to showcase his exceptional vocal abilities, and he has performed in several productions where his singing skills were an integral part of his performances.
Cariou’s voice is known for its richness and power, making him a standout performer in musicals. He has recorded a number of albums and has performed in concerts around the world, further establishing his reputation as a multi-talented artist.
Len Cariou Personal Life
Len Cariou’s personal life has remained relatively private. He has been married twice: his first marriage was to Patricia Otter, and later he married Heather Summerhayes, a writer and author. Cariou has one daughter, Laurel Cariou, from his first marriage. Despite the fame he has garnered over the years, he has maintained a low-key, family-oriented lifestyle.
In interviews, Cariou has expressed his love for his family and his strong values when it comes to keeping a balance between his career and personal life. Outside of acting, Cariou is a practicing Buddhist, and his spiritual beliefs have played a significant role in shaping his worldview.
Net Worth and Legacy
Len Cariou’s career, which spans stage, television, and film, has earned him a significant fortune. His estimated net worth is around $4 million, largely accumulated from his long career in entertainment.
Cariou’s legacy is firmly tied to his remarkable work on Broadway and his influential role in Sweeney Todd (1979). His work continues to influence aspiring actors and performers in the theatre world, while his roles in television and film have solidified him as a beloved figure in popular culture.
Conclusion
Len Cariou’s career has been marked by exceptional performances, a unique voice, and versatility that has allowed him to thrive across multiple forms of media. From his unforgettable portrayal of Sweeney Todd on Broadway to his portrayal of Henry Reagan on Blue Bloods, Cariou has proven himself to be one of the most talented and enduring performers of his generation. With his deep connection to the theatre world and a long‑standing presence in film and television, Len Cariou’s contributions to the arts are immeasurable, and his legacy will continue to inspire for years to come.
About the Author
