Sanford Meisner was an influential American actor and acting teacher, born on August 31, 1905, in Brooklyn, New York. He is best known for developing the Meisner Technique, a method of acting that emphasizes emotional truth and spontaneity. This technique encourages actors to focus on their scene partners and respond authentically, rather than relying on predetermined lines or actions.
Meisner studied under Stella Adler and later co-founded the Group Theatre in the 1930s, which aimed to create socially relevant plays. His teachings have had a lasting impact on modern acting, influencing many actors and acting schools around the world.