George Wyner

George Wyner (born October 20, 1945, in Boston, Massachusetts) is an American screen actor celebrated for smart character work across film and television. A Syracuse University graduate, Wyner began building a steady on-screen career in the early 1970s, becoming a familiar presence thanks to his sharp timing and grounded dramatic instincts.

On the big screen, he’s widely recognized as Colonel Sandurz in Mel Brooks’ Spaceballs, a role that cemented his place in modern comedy. He also delivered a memorable turn as Rabbi Nachtner in the Coen brothers’ Oscar-nominated A Serious Man, showcasing his ability to bring warmth and nuance to scene-stealing supporting parts. Additional notable film credits include To Be or Not to Be, My Favorite Year, and The Devil’s Advocate.

Wyner’s television résumé is equally expansive, with scores of guest appearances and multiple regular roles. He remains especially associated with his long-running stint as Deputy D.A. Irwin Bernstein on Hill Street Blues, a performance that helped define his reputation as a reliable, versatile actor who elevates every ensemble he joins.