History of Cooper Hoffman in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: July 16, 2026

Cooper Hoffman is an American actor, best recognized for his breakout role as Gary Valentine in Paul Thomas Anderson’s 2021 coming-of-age film, Licorice Pizza. Born in 2003, he is the son of the late, acclaimed actor Philip Seymour Hoffman. Despite his young age and limited prior professional experience, his debut performance in Licorice Pizza garnered widespread critical acclaim, including a nomination for the Golden Globe Award for Best Actor in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy. His portrayal of an ambitious teenage entrepreneur highlighted his natural screen presence and ability to carry a major feature film. Hoffman has since continued to pursue acting, establishing himself as a notable emerging talent in the film industry, often noted for his ability to convey nuanced vulnerability and charisma on screen.

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Full Timeline

1979: Publication of The Long Walk

In 1979, the original novel titled The Long Walk, authored by Stephen King, was published, serving as the source material for the 2025 film adaptation.

March 20, 2003: Birth of Cooper Alexander Hoffman

Cooper Alexander Hoffman was born on March 20, 2003, in the United States.

2003: Birth of Cooper Hoffman

Cooper Hoffman was born in 2003 to his parents, actor Philip Seymour Hoffman and costume designer Mimi O'Donnell.

2021: Film Debut in Licorice Pizza

In 2021, Cooper Hoffman made his acting debut in the film Licorice Pizza, which was written and directed by Paul Thomas Anderson. His performance was highly praised by critics and earned him a nomination for the Golden Globe Award for Best Actor – Motion Picture Musical or Comedy.

2023: Role in Wildcat Biopic

In 2023, Cooper Hoffman performed in the Flannery O'Connor biopic titled Wildcat, which was directed by Ethan Hawke and made its debut at the 50th Telluride Film Festival held in Telluride, Colorado.

2024: Role in Saturday Night

During 2024, Cooper Hoffman portrayed the character Dick Ebersol in the comedy-drama film Saturday Night.

2024: Portrayal of Dick Ebersol in Saturday Night

During 2024, Cooper Hoffman took on the role of Dick Ebersol in the Jason Reitman-directed biographical comedy-drama film titled Saturday Night.

2025: Starring role in The Long Walk

In 2025, Cooper Hoffman starred in the film adaptation of The Long Walk, portraying a young man dealing with the grief of losing his father, a role that mirrored his own personal experiences.

2025: Lead roles and stage debut

In 2025, Cooper Hoffman took on the lead role in the film adaptation of The Long Walk and made his Off-Broadway stage debut in Sam Shepard's Curse of the Starving Class.

2026: Casting Announcement for Durango

In June 2026, it was publicly revealed that Cooper Hoffman had been cast as the lead actor for a new drama pilot titled Durango, which is set to be featured on the Hulu streaming platform.