When you look at J.K. Simmons, what role first comes to mind? For many, it's Will Pope on the top-rated crime drama series The Closer. There's a love/hate relationship many fans of The Closer had with Simmons' character, but it was still one of their favorites. After the series ended, Simmons didn't see a shortage of acting jobs in his career.
In fact, he's still snagging roles for both films and television productions, even playing the voice of a lion in the popular cartoon movie Zootopia. So of course, we had to make a list dedicated to six of his most prominent parts after The Closer ended.
1
La La Land (2016)
Character's name: Bill
He owns an LA restaurant and is annoyed by aspiring jazz player Sebastian (played by Ryan Gosling).
One of his lines in the movie: "You're fired [it's Christmas time]. Yeah, I see the decorations. Good luck in the New Year."
IMDb movie rating: 8.0/10
Movie description: "While navigating their careers in Los Angeles, a pianist and an actress fall in love while attempting to reconcile their aspirations for the future."
2
Kung Fu Panda 3 (2016)
Character's name: General Kai
He's a spirit warrior yak who has defeated all dead Kung Fu masters.
One of his lines in the animation: "The Jade Slayer. Master of Pain. You may know me as the Beast of Vengeance. Uh... Maker of Widows?"
IMDb movie rating: 7.1/10
Movie description: "Continuing his 'legendary adventures of awesomeness,' Po must face two hugely epic but different threats: one supernatural and the other a little closer to home."
3
Zootopia (2016)
Character's name: Mayor Lionheart
Well, he's the Mayor of Zootopia, who happens to be a lion.
One of his lines in the animation: "Did I falsely imprison those animals? Well yes, yes I did. It was a classic 'doing the wrong thing for the right reason' kind of a deal."
IMDb movie rating: 8.0/10
Movie description: "In a city of anthropomorphic animals, a rookie bunny cop and a cynical con artist fox must work together to uncover a conspiracy."
4
Justice League (2017)
Character's name: Commissioner Gordon.
Well, as you can see from his name, he's a commissioner.
One of his lines in the movie: "[to Batman] Good to see you playing with others again."
IMDb rating: 6.1/10
Movie description: "Fueled by his restored faith in humanity and inspired by Superman's selfless act, Bruce Wayne enlists the help of his new-found ally, Diana Prince, to face an even greater enemy."
5
Palm Springs (2020)
Character's name: Roy
He's a knowledgeable man with confidence and experience.
One of his lines in the movie: "But there is a bottom, my friend. And it is a [filthy] dark place."
IMDB movie rating: 7.4/10
Movie description: "Stuck in a time loop, two wedding guests develop a budding romance while living the same day over and over again."
6
Being the Ricardos (2021)
Character's name: William Frawley
Frawley was the actor who played Fred Mertz on I Love Lucy.
One of his lines in the biographical drama: "[to Vivian Vance] And when can we expect you to be funny?"
IMDb movie rating: 6.5/10
Movie description: "The story of Lucy and Desi as they face a crisis that could end their careers—and another that could end their marriage."
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