He’s best known as the actor who played the lead character Michael Bluth in the beloved comedy series Arrested Development, and his performance truly solidified his place in television history. Over the years, he’s built an impressive film resume, appearing in a wide range of hits like Juno, Horrible Bosses, Starsky & Hutch, Up in the Air, the animated favorite Zootopia, and Identity Thief. In 2017, he took on a major new role—both in front of and behind the camera—starring in and directing the critically acclaimed Netflix series Ozark. His work there didn’t go unnoticed; in fact, he earned an Emmy Award in 2019 for Outstanding Directing for a Drama Series, marking a major milestone in his career.
Before all the fame and accolades, his journey began at just 10 years old when he accidentally landed his first audition for an educational film by tagging along with a friend. That small break sparked what would become a long and successful acting career. He also comes from a talented family—he’s the brother of actress Justine Bateman, which might have helped nurture his early interest in the industry. On the personal side, he married Amanda Anka back in 2001, and together they’ve built a life centered around family, raising two children, one of whom is Francesca Nora Bateman. Through it all, he’s remained a steady presence in Hollywood, balancing acting, directing, and family with quiet dedication.
He first rose to prominence as a young actor, starring in the beloved sitcoms Silver Spoons and The Hogan Family, where his talent began to shine early on. Over time, he built a solid reputation in the entertainment industry, eventually landing the lead role in the sequel to the iconic 1980s movie Teen Wolf. His performance as the main character brought him renewed attention and showcased his growth as an actor. Throughout his career, he’s remained a familiar face, with his name often associated with coming-of-age stories and nostalgic television hits. With each role, he continued to leave a mark, proving that his name was more than just a flash in the pan—it represented lasting appeal and dedication to the craft.