Actor Michael Emerson: Iowa Time Machine September 7, 1954

Iowa Time Machine ⏰:  On September 7, 1954, actor Michael Emerson was born in Cedar Rapids. Best known for his roles on “Lost” and “Person of Interest,” Emerson’s put together a long and successful acting career.

Born in Cedar Rapids, Emerson grew up in Toledo, where he participated in the marching band during his high school years. He went on to major in theater at Drake University before heading to New York City after graduation. Struggling to find work, Emerson spent some time putting his art minor to work while taking jobs as an illustrator. He moved to Jacksonville, Florida, where he continued to work as a director and teacher before enrolling at the University of Alabama to pursue a Master of Fine Arts degree.

Cast as Oscar Wilde in Moises Kaufman’s off-Broadway play “Gross Indecency,” Emerson’s acting career started to gain traction. An Emmy Award for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series in 2001 helped to advance the Iowan’s budding career further. Many first got to know Emerson as the character Benjamin Linus on the serial drama television series “Lost.”

Emerson’s career continued to develop on both the small and big screens. His memorable performances as Zeb Hindle in the 2004 film “Saw,” Harold Finch on the television show “Person of Interest,” and Dr. Leland Townsend in the Paramount+ series “Evil” has continued to keep Emerson on the screens of people near and far. #IowaOTD #IowaHistoryDaily #IowaHistoryCalendar