Thomas O'Rourke, a war baby born in Greenwich Village, New York City, was raised in Indiana until his parents' divorce, after which he returned to the Upper Westside to live with his grandparents.
He was ambitious and hardworking from a young age, buying a bike to deliver newspapers and laundry to the large apartments on Central Park West and Park Avenue to help with expenses. This early entrepreneurial spirit was fueled by his dream of one day living on Central Park West, a dream he would later achieve through his work on a soap opera.
At the age of 18, Thomas joined the Army, becoming a Paratrooper in the 101st Airborne, and served in Germany as a Military Police officer. During his time in the Army, he hitchhiked all over Europe, selling his American jeans on the Spanish Steps in Italy for an outrageous sum, and returning to Germany in style.
After his military service, Thomas had various jobs as he tried to figure out his career path. However, it was a performance of live theater that revealed his true calling.
He received a scholarship to Goodman Theater School, a part of the University of Chicago, and before graduating, he was cast in David Merrick's "Promises, Promises," earning his Equity card and beginning his journey as an actor.
Thomas ended his tour in New York City, where he did many commercials, more theater, met and married model Marcy Casterline, and was cast on "The Guiding Light." He also made many wonderful friends.
After leaving the world of soap opera, Tom and his wife moved to Los Angeles, where their only son, Preston, was born on March 18, 1987. In Los Angeles, Tom worked with many talented people and made lasting friendships.
Throughout his career, Tom took on both serious and comedic roles, showcasing his wit and sense of humor.
He is perhaps best known for his recurring roles as defense attorney Peter Behrens on Law & Order, Law & Order: Criminal Intent, and Law & Order: Trial by Jury, as well as Judge Mark Seligman on Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, making him one of the few actors to have appeared on all four Law & Order series.
