Joseph Cortese (born February 22, 1948) is an American actor who had major roles in films such as Windows (1980), Evilspeak (1981) and Monsignor (1982).

This article includes a list of general references, but it lacks sufficient corresponding inline citations. (March 2013)

Cortese was born on February 22, 1948, in Paterson, New Jersey. He went to Midwestern College where he earned his BA in theatre. Cortese went to New York City and trained under Milton Katselas.

Cortese has had major roles in films such as Windows (1980), Evilspeak (1981) and Monsignor (1982). His other film appearances include roles in Arizona Slim (1974), Jessi's Girls (1975), The Death Collector (1976), Deadly Illusion (1987), Ruby (1992), Illicit Dreams (1994), American History X (1998) and Against the Ropes (2004).

Cortese was married to actress Kim Delaney from 1989 until their divorce in 1994.^[1] They have a son, Jack, born circa 1990.^[2]