Thomas F. Wilson

Not many know that other than being an entertainer, he is an accomplished painter as well. Most of his works focus on the yesteryear toys played by children then. A famed artisan, he was invited to join the California Featured Artists Series at Disneyland in 2006.

A Catholic by belief, he released a Contemporary Christian album in 2000 by the title, ‘Name of the Father’.

Thomas F Wilson was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

He completed his high school education from Radnor High School. It was during his years at school that he was involved in dramatic arts. Furthermore, he presided over the debate team of his school, and served as the tuba player and a drum major.

After completing his studies, he took to studying international politics at the Arizona State University. Thereafter he attended the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York City.

At New York, he attained his first stage experience as a stand-up comedian.

To pursue a career in acting, he left for Los Angeles in the early years of 1980s. During this time, he bagged for himself guest appearances in a couple of television shows, such as ‘Knight Rider’ and ‘The Facts of Life’.

In 1985, he seized his first breakthrough role in the film, ‘back to the Future’. The flick had him playing the role of a bully, Biff Tannen. The role was ironical given the fact that he was the most frequent target of the bullies while at school. He brought in those childhood experiences to highlight reality and develop the character.

In 1986, he starred in two movies, ‘April Fool’s Day’ and ‘Let’s Get Harry’. In 1987, he played the character of Lieutenant Stevenson in the film, ‘Smart Alex’ and in 1988, he was seen portraying the role of a Detroit police officer in the film, ‘Action Jackson’.

In 1989, he starred in the sequel of ‘Back to the Future’ titled, ‘Back to the Future Part II’. In it, he not only played the role of Biff Tannen but of Biff's grandson, Griff Tannen as well.

This talented actor played the character of bully Biff Tannen in ‘Back to the Future’ trilogy. But in reality, he was the target of the bullies while at school.