Billy Bob Thornton is an American actor, filmmaker, and musician. He initially gained notice for co-writing, directing, and starring in the film "Sling Blade" (1996), which earned him an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay and a nomination for Best Actor. Thornton's diverse acting career includes notable roles in films like "A Simple Plan" (1998), which garnered him another Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor, "Monster's Ball" (2001), "The Man Who Wasn't There" (2001), and "Bad Santa" (2003). He has also ventured into television, starring in the acclaimed series "Fargo" (2014), for which he won a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor in a Miniseries or Motion Picture Made for Television. Beyond acting and directing, Thornton is known for his work as a musician with his band, The Boxmasters.