Zach Galligan

Here’s a full profile of Zach Galligan:

Introduction

Zachary Wolfe Galligan (born February 14, 1964) is an American actor best known for his starring role as Billy Peltzer in the cult-classic horror comedy Gremlins (1984) and its sequel Gremlins 2: The New Batch (1990).

While he never became a mainstream A-list star, Galligan has maintained a steady career in genre films, television, and voice work, often returning to the world of Gremlins in various forms.

Early Life & Family

• Galligan was born in New York City to Carol Jean (née Wolfe), a psychologist and psychoanalyst, and Arthur John Galligan, a lawyer who was a founding partner of the firm Dickstein Shapiro.

• His parents divorced when he was three years old.

• He has one sister named Jessica.

• Galligan attended Columbia University, from which he graduated.

Career & Major Works

Breakthrough & Gremlins

Galligan’s career breakthrough came when he was cast as Billy Peltzer in Gremlins (1984), directed by Joe Dante. The film became a hit and remains a beloved entry in the dark comedy / horror hybrid genre.

The success of Gremlins led to him reprising his role in Gremlins 2: The New Batch (1990).

Genre & Horror / Fantasy Roles

Following Gremlins, Galligan gravitated toward horror, fantasy, and sci-fi projects. Some of his notable roles include:

• Waxwork (1988) as Mark Loftmore

• Waxwork II: Lost in Time (1992)

• Warlock: The Armageddon (1993)

• Cyborg 3: The Recycler (1995)

He also appeared in a number of films released direct-to-video or in independent productions.

Television & Guest Appearances

Over the years, Galligan has made many television guest appearances, including in:

• Melrose Place

• Tales from the Crypt

• Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman

• Star Trek: Voyager (episode “In The Flesh”)

• Law & Order: Criminal Intent

He has also taken part in newer Gremlins-related projects. For instance, in 2022 his association with Gremlins: Secrets of the Mogwai was confirmed, returning to the franchise in a new capacity.

Personal Life

• Galligan was married to Ling-Ling Hu Ingerick on September 25, 2005. The marriage ended in divorce in 2010.

• He does not appear to have children (based on available public information).

Public Persona, Strengths & Challenges

Galligan is often associated with his Gremlins legacy—both as a blessing (recognition, fan base) and a limitation (typecasting).

In interviews and coverage, he has expressed how rejection is a constant in acting, and that he’s learned to become “numb” to it in many ways.

He also demonstrates willingness to revisit roles and franchises from his past, signaling both a respect for what those works mean and a pragmatic approach to sustaining a career.

His continued activity in genre projects and voice work showcase adaptability—staying relevant by aligning with fan communities and franchise revivals.

Memorable Quotes & Statements

While Galligan doesn’t have a large corpus of widely circulated “famous quotes,” here are a few public remarks and quotes of note:

• He once said:

  “I get rejected for 98 out of 100 things I try for.”
  This reflects his acknowledgment of the challenges and rejection inherent in the acting profession.

• Regarding Gremlins: Secrets of the Mogwai, he commented on the new voice actor for Gizmo:

  “The new voice is indistinguishable from the original.”
  This highlights his ongoing care for the integrity of the franchise.

Lessons & Takeaways

1. Cult classics can become lifelong legacies — A single iconic role (like Gremlins) can anchor a career in unexpected ways.

2. Adaptation is key — Staying involved in evolving formats (voice work, franchises) helps maintain relevance.

3. Persistence in rejection — A big part of acting is enduring rejection; resilience is essential.

4. Balance nostalgia with new growth — Galligan’s willingness to revisit past work while doing new projects is a model for longevity.

5. Be open to community & fan engagement — Genre film actors who work within fan ecosystems often sustain careers longer.