Tall and commanding, Chris Noth has always had a presence that’s hard to ignore—both on and off the screen. Over the years, Chris Noth became a household name thanks to his unforgettable performances, particularly as Detective Mike Logan on the iconic series Law & Order (NBC, 1990–2010). But for many fans, it was Chris Noth’s role as the enigmatic and irresistibly charming Mr. Big on HBO’s Sex and the City (1998–2004) that truly cemented his status in pop culture history.
Before he became synonymous with these legendary characters, Chris Noth honed his skills through rigorous training at Yale’s prestigious drama program, followed by formative years performing on stages across New York City and Los Angeles. Early in his career, Chris Noth made appearances on several TV shows, including a notable recurring role on the groundbreaking police drama Hill Street Blues (NBC, 1981–87) back in 1986. Though he spent some time navigating a string of forgettable made-for-TV movies, it was his breakout role on Law & Order that changed everything. For five years, Chris Noth brought Detective Logan to life with a mix of grit and charisma—until he chose to leave in 1995, seeking new creative horizons.
The next few years saw Chris Noth taking on lesser-known television roles and indie film projects, but fate had something bigger in store. In what would become the defining chapter of his career, Chris Noth stepped into the shoes of Mr. Big—a wealthy, emotionally elusive figure who somehow captured the heart of Carrie Bradshaw over six seasons. The role not only redefined Chris Noth’s trajectory but also gave audiences one of television’s most talked-about romantic figures.
Not one to shy away from revisiting beloved characters, Chris Noth returned as Mike Logan for three seasons on the spin-off Law & Order: Criminal Intent (NBC, 2001–07; USA, 2007–11), proving once again that his portrayal resonated deeply with viewers. He later reunited with the Sex and the City universe for the 2008 big-screen adaptation, bringing Mr. Big back into the spotlight with all his signature complexity.
Chris Noth continued to impress with layered performances, notably as the charismatic yet scandal-prone politician husband opposite Julianna Margulies in the acclaimed legal drama The Good Wife (CBS, 2009–16). By this point in his career, a pattern emerged—one that fans and critics alike began to notice. Whether playing cops, billionaires, or flawed politicians, Chris Noth consistently embodied strong, assertive men, often with a hardened edge. Yet beneath the surface, there was usually that unmistakable glint—a rakish charm that softened even the most stoic characters.
Throughout it all, Chris Noth has maintained a steady and respected presence in the entertainment industry. With a career spanning decades, Chris Noth remains a compelling figure whose portrayals continue to leave a lasting impression.
When it comes to Chris Noth’s film career, there are definitely some standout moments—and a few that didn’t quite hit the mark. One of the highlights, without a doubt, is Getting to Know You from 1999, which stands out as Chris Noth’s highest rated movie. The film showcased his talent in a more introspective and nuanced role, earning praise from both critics and audiences alike. On the other end of the spectrum, Chris Noth appeared in The Perfect Man back in 2005, a film that ended up being his lowest rated to date. While the movie had its charm for some viewers, it just didn’t resonate the same way overall. Still, through highs and lows, Chris Noth continues to be a recognizable presence on screen, and fans keep coming back to see what he’ll do next.