Career Timeline of Jeffrey Donovan: Major Achievements and Milestones

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: March 29, 2026

Discover the career path of Jeffrey Donovan, from the first major opportunity to industry-changing achievements.

Jeffrey Donovan is an American actor prominent for his portrayal of Michael Westen in the TV series *Burn Notice*. He has built a diverse filmography including roles in movies such as *Sicario*, *Wrath of Man*, *Hitch*, and *Changeling*. Donovan has also played iconic figures such as Robert F. Kennedy in *J. Edgar* and John F. Kennedy in *LBJ*. Furthermore, he had a recurring part in the second season of *Fargo*, and recently starred as Detective Frank Cosgrove in the *Law & Order* revival, showcasing his versatility across various genres and roles.

Sections (3)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements

2004: Leading Role in Touching Evil Remake

In 2004, Jeffrey Donovan had his first leading role in the American remake of the British television series Touching Evil with Vera Farmiga on the USA Network.

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2007: Starring in Burn Notice

In 2007, Jeffrey Donovan began starring as Michael Westen in Burn Notice, a spy marooned in Miami.

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October 2008: Starring in Don't Dress for Dinner

From October 2008, Jeffrey Donovan starred in the farce Don't Dress for Dinner in Chicago.

September 2009: Auction at Michael Bolton's Benefit Concert

In September 2009, Jeffrey Donovan helped Michael Bolton at the 17th Annual Benefit Concert for Women and Children at Risk by auctioning off a "Burn Notice walk-on part" plus a kiss, raising $36,000.

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October 4, 2009: Chairman for Life Rolls On Fundraiser

On October 4, 2009, Jeffrey Donovan served as one of the chairmen for the 6th Annual LRO annual fundraiser called Night by the Ocean at the Kodak Theatre, supporting people with spinal cord injuries.

2009: Amesbury High School Mentorship and Scholarship

In 2009, Jeffrey Donovan returned to Amesbury High School for a career day mentorship program and presented a $100,000 arts scholarship program. The first $10,000 award was given out that June.

2009: Starring in Don't Dress for Dinner

Until the spring of 2009, Jeffrey Donovan starred in the farce Don't Dress for Dinner in Chicago.

April 17, 2010: Grand Marshal of AIDS Walk Miami

On April 17, 2010, Jeffrey Donovan was named Grand Marshal of the 22nd annual AIDS Walk Miami.

June 17, 2010: Directorial Debut with "Made Man" Episode

On June 17, 2010, Jeffrey Donovan made his directorial debut with the "Made Man" episode of Burn Notice.

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April 17, 2011: Directed Burn Notice Prequel Film

On April 17, 2011, Jeffrey Donovan directed the prequel film Burn Notice: The Fall of Sam Axe, starring co-star Bruce Campbell, which first aired on USA Network.

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