Walton Goggins is one of Hollywood’s most versatile and captivating actors, known for his ability to bring depth, charm, and menace to his characters. Whether portraying a morally complex villain or a comedic sidekick, Goggins commands the screen in every role he takes. With a career spanning over three decades, he has appeared in critically acclaimed films and television shows that showcase his immense talent. This article provides a detailed look at Walton Goggins’ movies and TV shows, highlighting his iconic roles, hidden gems, and contributions to Hollywood storytelling.
Who Is Walton Goggins?
Walton Goggins is an American actor and producer born on 10 November 1971 in Birmingham, Alabama. Over the years, he has gained recognition for his chameleon-like ability to embody vastly different characters across genres. Goggins has repeatedly proven he’s a force to be reckoned with, from crime dramas to westerns, comedies, and even animated series.
Fans often associate him with his memorable roles on television, including Boyd Crowder in Justified and Shane Vendrell in The Shield. However, his impressive filmography also includes notable performances in movies directed by Quentin Tarantino, such as The Hateful Eight and Django Unchained.
Walton Goggins’ Most Iconic TV Shows
- The Shield (2002–2008)
- Role: Detective Shane Vendrell
- Where to Watch: Hulu, Amazon Prime
- One of Walton Goggins’ breakthrough performances came in FX’s gritty crime drama The Shield. As Detective Shane Vendrell, Goggins played a morally conflicted member of the LAPD’s corrupt Strike Team. Over seven seasons, his performance showcased the character’s inner turmoil, loyalty, and volatile nature. Goggins’ chemistry with Michael Chiklis (Vic Mackey) was a highlight of the series, and his work in The Shield solidified him as one of television’s finest actors.
- Justified (2010–2015)
- Role: Boyd Crowder
- Where to Watch: Hulu, Amazon Prime
- Goggins’ portrayal of Boyd Crowder in Justified is arguably his most celebrated TV role. Based on Elmore Leonard’s works, the series follows Deputy U.S. Marshal Raylan Givens (played by Timothy Olyphant) as he enforces justice in Kentucky. Boyd Crowder, a charismatic and unpredictable outlaw, starts as the series’ antagonist but evolves into a multi-dimensional character. Goggins’ nuanced performance earned him a Primetime Emmy nomination and widespread acclaim.
- Vice Principals (2016–2017)
- Role: Lee Russell
- Where to Watch: HBO Max
- Walton Goggins demonstrated his comedic chops in HBO’s dark comedy Vice Principals. Starring opposite Danny McBride, Goggins played Lee Russell, a conniving and narcissistic high school administrator vying for the principal’s job. His over-the-top performance brought a hilarious yet unsettling edge to the series, proving his versatility as an actor.
- The Righteous Gemstones (2019–Present)
- Role: Baby Billy Freeman
- Where to Watch: HBO Max
- In another collaboration with Danny McBride, Goggins shines as Baby Billy Freeman, a washed-up preacher and schemer, in The Righteous Gemstones. His portrayal is equal parts absurd, tragic, and hysterical, making him a fan-favorite character in the series about a dysfunctional televangelist family.
- Sons of Anarchy (2012–2014)
- Role: Venus Van Dam
- Where to Watch: Hulu, FXNow
- Goggins appeared in a recurring role as Venus Van Dam, a transgender escort, in FX’s hit motorcycle drama Sons of Anarchy. His sensitive portrayal of Venus brought emotional depth to the series and earned praise for breaking stereotypes with authenticity and humanity.
Walton Goggins’ Standout Movies
- Django Unchained (2012)
- Role: Billy Crash
- Director: Quentin Tarantino
- Goggins delivered a memorable performance in Quentin Tarantino’s Django Unchained, playing Billy Crash, a sadistic overseer at a plantation. Although his screen time was limited, Goggins made a significant impact with his chilling performance.
- The Hateful Eight (2015)
- Role: Sheriff Chris Mannix
- Director: Quentin Tarantino
- In The Hateful Eight, Goggins played Sheriff Chris Mannix, a dishonest and opportunistic Southerner caught in a tense standoff during a snowstorm. His performance brought a mix of humor and menace to the film, earning him accolades for standing out among a star-studded cast.
- Ant-Man and the Wasp (2018)
- Role: Sonny Burch
- Director: Peyton Reed
- Goggins joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe in Ant-Man and the Wasp as Sonny Burch, a black-market dealer with shady connections. While the role leaned more towards comedic villainy, Goggins brought his trademark charisma to the character, adding a layer of charm to the movie.
- Tomb Raider (2018)
- Role: Mathias Vogel
- Director: Roar Uthaug
- Goggins took on the role of Mathias Vogel, the primary antagonist in Tomb Raider, a reboot of the video game-based franchise. As an archaeologist-turned-mercenary, Goggins delivered a compelling performance that balanced ruthlessness with vulnerability.
- Three Christs (2017)
- Role: Joseph Cassel
- Director: Jon Avnet
- In this drama based on a true story, Goggins played one of three schizophrenic patients who each believe they are Jesus Christ. His performance as Joseph Cassel showcased his ability to delve into emotionally intense and psychologically complex roles.
Lesser-Known Walton Goggins Roles Worth Watching
- The Unicorn (2019–2021)
- Role: Wade Felton
- Where to Watch: CBS, Paramount+
- In this heartwarming comedy series, Goggins starred as a widowed father navigating single parenthood and dating after losing his wife. The role highlighted Goggins’ ability to portray relatable, heartfelt characters.
- Predators (2010)
- Role: Stans
- Goggins joined the sci-fi horror franchise as a death-row inmate hunted by alien predators. His performance added humor and tension to the action-packed film.
- The Apostle (1997)
- Role: Sam
- Early in his career, Goggins worked with Robert Duvall in The Apostle. Though his role was small, it was a significant stepping stone for his career.
Conclusion
Walton Goggins’ filmography is a testament to his incredible range as an actor. From iconic TV roles like Boyd Crowder in Justified to standout performances in movies such as The Hateful Eight, Goggins has left an indelible mark on Hollywood. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering his work, his performances are always worth watching.
Which Walton Goggins role is your favorite? Let us know in the comments, and remember to explore more of his remarkable work!
