Early Life and Education of John Cusack: A Complete Timeline

Discover the defining moments in the early life of John Cusack. From birth to education, explore key events.

John Cusack is a prolific American actor whose career spans over four decades and includes more than 80 films. He rose to fame in the 1980s with roles in coming-of-age films like Sixteen Candles, Better Off Dead, The Sure Thing, Stand by Me, and Say Anything... Cusack successfully transitioned beyond his teen idol status, showcasing his versatility in genres ranging from crime thrillers like The Grifters and The Paperboy to black comedies such as Bullets Over Broadway and Grosse Pointe Blank, and even psychological horror with 1408. He is known for his diverse roles and consistent presence in the film industry.

Sections (3)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements

June 28, 1966: John Cusack's Birth

On June 28, 1966, John Paul Cusack was born. He would later become an American actor with a career spanning over four decades.

Others born on this day/year

1984: Role in Sixteen Candles and Gift of First Car

In 1984, John Cusack appeared in 'Sixteen Candles'. Also in 1984, Jamie Lee Curtis gifted Cusack his first car, a 1974 Chevrolet Impala named 'La Bamba'.

1984: Graduation from High School

In 1984, John Cusack graduated from Evanston Township High School, where he met Jeremy Piven.

1986: Peter Gabriel's Song Release

In 1986, Peter Gabriel released the song 'In Your Eyes', which would be famously used in John Cusack's film 'Say Anything...' in 1989.

March 2008: Stalking Arrest

In March 2008, Emily Leatherman was arrested outside John Cusack's Malibu home for stalking him.

June 2008: Appearance in MoveOn.org Advertisement

In June 2008, John Cusack appeared in a MoveOn.org advertisement criticizing George W. Bush and John McCain.

October 10, 2008: Stalker's Plea and Sentencing

On October 10, 2008, Emily Leatherman pleaded no contest to stalking John Cusack, receiving five years' probation, mandatory psychiatric counseling, and a restraining order.

2012: Supporting Freedom of the Press Foundation

In 2012, John Cusack became an initial supporter of the Freedom of the Press Foundation.

2014: Criticism of Israel's Actions in Gaza War

In 2014, John Cusack criticized Israel's military actions against Palestinians during the Gaza War.

June 2015: Criticism of Obama Administration

In June 2015, John Cusack criticized the Obama administration's drone policy and support of the National Defense Authorization Act.

2015: Meeting with Edward Snowden

In 2015, John Cusack met Edward Snowden in a Moscow hotel room, which was later documented in a book.

2016: Endorsement of Bernie Sanders

In 2016, John Cusack endorsed Senator Bernie Sanders in his presidential bid.

June 2019: Controversial Tweet

In June 2019, John Cusack tweeted an image with antisemitic connotations, later apologizing and deleting the tweet.

May 2020: Attack at George Floyd Protest

During May 2020, John Cusack was attacked by police while recording a George Floyd protest in Chicago.

2020: Endorsement of Bernie Sanders

In 2020, John Cusack endorsed Senator Bernie Sanders in his presidential bid for a second time.

October 2023: Defense of Palestinians

Since October 2023, following the outbreak of the Israel–Hamas war in Gaza, John Cusack has been vocal in his defense of Palestinians.

2023: Criticism of Israel's Military Actions Against Palestinians

In 2023, John Cusack criticized Israel's military actions following the Hamas-led attack and Israeli invasion of the Gaza Strip.

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