Michael Zegen

Michael Jonathan Zegen, born on February 20, 1979, is a prominent American actor celebrated for his compelling performances in various acclaimed television series. He gained widespread recognition for his roles in "Rescue Me" (2004–2011), "Boardwalk Empire" (2011–2014), and "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel" (2017–2023).

Raised in Glen Rock, New Jersey, and later in Ridgewood, Michael grew up in a family that valued education and perseverance; his mother was a teacher and his father a lawyer. He is Jewish, with a rich family history that includes Holocaust survivors. Zegen's passion for acting blossomed during his time at Ridgewood High School, where he actively participated in theater. He further honed his craft at Skidmore College, graduating in 2001.

Zegen's career took off with his portrayal of Tommy Gavin's nephew in "Rescue Me," where he transitioned from a recurring character in the first three seasons to a main cast member by the fifth and sixth seasons. His talent caught the attention of producers, leading to his role as the infamous gangster Bugsy Siegel in "Boardwalk Empire." He also showcased his versatility in the HBO comedy "How To Make It In America" and had a guest role in "The Walking Dead."

His stage presence shines in off-Broadway productions like "Bad Jews" and his Broadway debut in "A View from the Bridge" (2015). His portrayal of Joel Maisel in "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel" earned him two Screen Actors Guild Awards for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series. In 2021, he returned to Broadway in "Trouble in Mind," further cementing his status as a dynamic performer.