John Goodman is an American film, television, and stage actor. John Goodman is best known for his role on the television series Roseanne. John Goodman is also noted for appearances in the films of the Coen brothers. His voice work has appeared in numerous Disney films. Having contributed to more than 50 films, John Goodman has also won two American Comedy Awards.

John Goodman has a sister, Elisabeth, and a brother, Leslie. He went to Affton High School. He won a football scholarship to Southwest Missouri State University. John Goodman pledged the Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity. He studied with actor Kathleen Turner.

After a college injury ended his football career, he decided to become a professional actor. John Goodman attempted unsuccessfully to earn money as a bartender and waiter. He was the person who slapped himself in the commercial for Skin Bracer. He performed off Broadway and in dinner theatres, before movies.