Jason Bateman's Extensive Movie and TV Career Over 4 Decades

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Jason Bateman's acting career began at a young age. When he was just 10 years old in 1981, Bateman landed his first major television role playing James Cooper Ingalls on the hit drama series Little House on the Prairie. He appeared in over 60 episodes of the show until it ended in 1983, establishing himself as a talented child actor.

Transition to Adult Roles

After Little House, Bateman continued acting through his teens. He landed recurring and guest starring roles on series like Silver Spoons, Knight Rider, and The Hogan Family. In the late 1980s, Bateman returned to regular television work playing Derek Taylor on the sitcom Valerie. He continued that role for several seasons as the show underwent title changes, first as The Hogan Family after Valerie Harper left the series, and then as Valerie's Family.

Achieving Fame on Sitcoms

Bateman reached new heights of fame in the 1990s with starring roles on three popular sitcoms. He played the lead character in the short-lived series Simon in 1995. That same year, he took on what would become his best known television role — David James "The Skipper" Burton on The Little House Years, a continuation of the series that first made him famous over a decade prior.

Finally, from 2003 to 2006, Bateman achieved his greatest sitcom success to that point playing Michael Bluth on Arrested Development. As the level-headed son in a wealthy dysfunctional family, he earned widespread critical praise and a Golden Globe for the role. Though low ratings led to the show's cancellation, it gained admiration and popularity over the years to come.

Movie Career Takes Off

With Bateman now an established television comedy star, he began transitioning to a career on the silver screen. He landed supporting roles in comedies like Starsky & Hutch (2004), Dodgeball (2004), and The Break-Up

Dramatic Work and Acclaim

In 2011, Bateman's film career hit new highs when he appeared in the R-rated comedy smash hit Horrible Bosses. His performance as Nick Hendricks anchored the dark comedy, showcasing Bateman's talents for playing the "everyman" character. The movie was a major commercial and critical success.

Directorial Work

Expanding into behind the camera work, Bateman made his directorial debut in 2013 with the comedy Bad Words. He also starred in the provocative film about a spelling bee competition. Later directorial efforts included The Family Fang (2015) and episodes of Arrested Development and Ozark.

Arrested Development Revival

After years of build up and rumors of revival, fan excitement exploded when Netflix announced it was bringing back Arrested Development in 2013. Bateman jumped at the chance to portray Michael Bluth and serve as executive producer and occasional director on the new iteration of the series.

While not reaching the same heights as its initial run, the revival run on Netflix spans 5 seasons as of 2022, allowing old fans and new audiences to enjoy the dysfunctional Bluth family once again thanks to Bateman's steady presence.

Emmy Winning Work on Ozark

In the midst of revived Arrested Development success, Bateman took on what is arguably his most acclaimed television role yet — financial advisor turned money launderer Marty Byrde in Ozark. Over its 4 season run on Netflix from 2017 to 2022, Bateman served as star, executive producer, and frequent director in key episodes.

His work on Ozark finally won Bateman the Emmy award for Outstanding Directing in a Drama Series. He received successive Emmy nominations for his leading role as Marty Byrde, though did not take home the award for acting.

Continued Film Success

While starring on Ozark, Bateman continued working consistently in movies. He had roles in comedies like Office Christmas Party (2016) and action thrillers like The Outsider (2018). Bateman also starred in and directed the well-received 2018 crime drama Game Night.

As of 2022, Bateman is working on the Netflix thriller Here Comes the Flood as well as secured a deal to develop and produce content for the streaming giant's service. He also wrapped production as a producer and star of the con artist comedy Confess, Fletch, a reboot of a book series that will look to launch a new movie franchise.

FAQs

How old was Jason Bateman when he started acting?

Jason Bateman began acting at 10 years old in 1981 when he landed his breakout role as James Cooper Ingalls on Little House on the Prairie. He continued acting throughout his teenage years in the 1980s.

What was Jason Bateman's most famous TV role?

Bateman's most famous television role is playing Michael Bluth on the sitcom Arrested Development from 2003 to 2006, and again in the revival seasons on Netflix starting in 2013. His performance earned him much praise and awards attention.

What major award did Bateman win for Ozark?

For starring, directing, and executive producing the Netflix drama thriller Ozark, Bateman won the Emmy for Outstanding Directing in a Drama Series in 2019.

How many projects has Bateman directed?

In addition to episodes of shows he stars in, Bateman made his directorial debut in 2013 with the film Bad Words. He went on to direct The Family Fang (2015), episodes of Arrested Development and Ozark, and the movie Game Night (2018).