History of Simon Baker in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: March 2, 2026

Simon Baker is an Australian actor and director known for his television and film work. He rose to fame in the Australian soap opera *E Street* and later starred in the CBS legal drama *The Guardian*, earning a Golden Globe nomination. Baker achieved widespread recognition for his role as Patrick Jane in the drama series *The Mentalist*, for which he received a Primetime Emmy Award nomination. His film credits include *L.A. Confidential*, *The Devil Wears Prada*, and *Margin Call*, solidifying his presence in the entertainment industry.

Sections (2)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements

July 1969: Simon Baker's Birth

In July 1969, Simon Lucas Baker was born in Launceston, Tasmania, to Barry, a mechanic and school caretaker, and Elizabeth, a high-school English teacher.

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1992: E Street Debut

In 1992, Simon Baker first gained prominence on the Australian soap opera E Street.

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1993: E Street

In 1993, Simon Baker continued his role on the Australian soap opera E Street.

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1993: Home and Away Role & Logie Award

In 1993, Simon Baker played James Hudson in "Home and Away" and also won the Logie Award for Most Popular New Talent.

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1994: Home and Away

In 1994, Simon Baker continued his role on "Home and Away".

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1996: Heartbreak High Role

In 1996, Simon Baker played Tom Summers in Heartbreak High.

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1997: L.A. Confidential

In 1997, Simon Baker appeared in a supporting role in L.A. Confidential.

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October 1998: Marriage to Rebecca Rigg

On 2 October 1998, Simon Baker married Australian actress Rebecca Rigg after five years of living together, in a ceremony held on the beach at Carmel.

1998: Restaurant

In 1998, Simon Baker appeared in the film Restaurant.

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2001: The Guardian Star

In 2001, Simon Baker starred in the CBS legal drama The Guardian.

2002: Golden Globe Nomination

In 2002, Simon Baker received a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actor in a Television Series – Drama for his work on The Guardian.

2004: The Guardian

In 2004, Simon Baker concluded his role in The Guardian.

2006: The Devil Wears Prada

In 2006, Simon Baker appeared in the film The Devil Wears Prada.

2008: The Mentalist Premiere

In 2008, Simon Baker began portraying Patrick Jane in the drama series The Mentalist.

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2009: Emmy Nomination

In 2009, Simon Baker received a Primetime Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series for his work on The Mentalist.

2010: The Mentalist Earnings

In 2010, Simon Baker was earning US$350,000 per episode of "The Mentalist", and he later signed a new contract for US$30 million for the title role.

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2011: Margin Call

In 2011, Simon Baker appeared in the film Margin Call.

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June 2012: Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences Invitation

In June 2012, Simon Baker was invited to join the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.

February 2013: Hollywood Walk of Fame Star

On 14 February 2013, Simon Baker was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for his contributions to the entertainment industry.

2015: The Mentalist

In 2015, Simon Baker concluded his role in The Mentalist.

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2017: Breath Film Debut

In 2017, Simon Baker made his directorial debut with the film Breath, also co-writing, co-producing, and starring in it; the film is based on the Tim Winton novel.