Best Actor

George Clooney (Michael Clayton)
 
George Clooney may be known for his good looks and on-set practical jokes, but this Hollywood heartthrob is receiving critical acclaim for his serious new role.

In Michael Clayton, George plays the in-house "fixer" at a powerful corporate law firm in New York City. When a multimillion dollar lawsuit comes across his desk, Michael faces the biggest challenge of his career. His intense performance has earned him a Golden Globe® nomination, as well as an Oscar® nod for Best Actor.

This isn't George's first taste of Oscar glory. In 2006, George received three Oscar nominations—two for directing and writing the film Good Night, and Good Luck and another for Best Supporting Actor in the film Syriana, which he won.

Though George's big-screen career has flourished with films like Ocean's Eleven, O Brother, Where Art Thou? and The Perfect Storm, many fans still know him best as Dr. Doug Ross, ER's breakout star.