James Lipton was an American writer, director, and actor, best known for his role as the host of the television series Inside the Actors Studio. The show, which premiered in 1994, featured in-depth interviews with prominent actors, directors, and writers, allowing them to share their experiences and insights about the craft of acting. Born on September 19, 1926, in Detroit, Michigan, Lipton had a diverse career in the arts, including work in theater and film. He also served as the dean of the Actors Studio Drama School in New York City, where he influenced many aspiring actors and contributed to the education of the performing arts.