Chris Messina

Chris Messina (also credited as Christopher Messina; 克里斯·梅西納; کریس مسینا) is an American screen actor, director, writer, and producer, born August 11, 1974, in New York City. Known for sharp, grounded performances, he has built a career moving fluidly between character-driven indie projects and major studio titles.

Messina became widely recognized for his starring role as Danny Castellano on the comedy series The Mindy Project (2012–2017), a performance that brought him two Critics’ Choice Television Award nominations for Best Actor in a Comedy Series. He has also made memorable TV appearances on acclaimed series including Six Feet Under, Damages, The Newsroom, Sharp Objects, The Sinner, Gaslit, and Based on a True Story.

On film, Messina’s credits span a wide range of tones, from Vicky Cristina Barcelona (Doug) and Julie & Julia (Eric Powell) to Greenberg (Phillip Greenberg) and Made of Honor (Dennis). His later work includes Birds of Prey, I Care a Lot, Call Jane, Air, and The Boogeyman, plus roles in titles like Dreamin’ Wild (Matt Sullivan).

Behind the camera, Messina has expanded his creative footprint by writing, executive producing, and starring in the comedy Fairhaven (2012), and by directing and starring in the drama Alex of Venice (2014).