“... the mission statement of the Masons involves treating your neighbor with generosity and being benevolent ... I really like that notion.” – Nick Offerman in an interview to NPR.
Nick Offerman: actor, comedian, author, and proud Freemason. Best known for his iconic portrayal of Ron Swanson on Parks and Recreation, Brother Offerman has charmed audiences with his dry wit, unmistakable voice, and love of woodworking. While the specifics of his Masonic journey remain private, Brother Offerman confirmed his membership during an interview with Wired magazine in 2020.
As a Mason, Brother Offerman exemplifies the values of integrity, self-improvement, and service that unite our Brethren in all corners of the world. For fans of his work and members of the fraternity alike, Brother Offerman represents a shining example of how dedication to the Craft can leave a lasting mark both on stage and in life.
Childhood and Education
Nicholas David Offerman was born on June 26, 1970, in Joliet, Illinois, to Ric Offerman, a social studies teacher, and Cathy Offerman, a nurse. Brother Offerman demonstrated a creative spirit early on. After graduating high school in 1988, he pursued his passion for storytelling at the University of Illinois Urbana–Champaign.
During his time there, Brother Offerman and a group of fellow students co-founded the Defiant Theatre, a Chicago-based company known for its bold and innovative productions. In 1993, he graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degree and spent three additional years honing his craft in the Chicago theater scene before making the pivotal move to Los Angeles in 1996.
Acting Career
Brother Offerman’s acting journey began modestly, with his first television appearance at 27 in a walk-on role on ER. Portraying a heavy metal rocker who brought a friend suffering from cancer to County General Hospital, Brother Offerman embraced that brief moment of fame, uncertain of whether he would ever land a big break. At the time, he was still navigating the unpredictable waters of Hollywood, relishing any opportunity to perform on screen.
Brother Offerman as Ron Swanson in the TV show Parks and RecreationYears later, after continuing to refine his skills in theater and television, Brother Offerman landed the role that changed everything. In 2009, Michael Schur and Greg Daniels, creators of the hit television show The Office, offered him the role of Ron Swanson in a new project: Parks and Recreation. Swanson, a deadpan libertarian bureaucrat who begrudgingly oversaw the city parks department, quickly became a fan favorite and propelled Brother Offerman into the cultural zeitgeist. Brother Offerman’s ability to blend Swanson’s humorless demeanor with surprising humanity and comedic brilliance transformed a supporting character into one of the show’s most beloved figures.
Brother Offerman’s range, however, extends far beyond comedy. In critically acclaimed roles on Fargo and The Last of Us, he showcased his dramatic talents, proving his ability to portray nuanced, emotionally complex characters. His performance in The Last of Usearned him widespread acclaim, culminating in four award nominations, including a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series, which he won in 2023. This career-defining performance demonstrated Brother Offerman’s ability to captivate audiences with raw emotion and depth, solidifying his place as one of the most versatile actors of his generation.
Woodworking, Writing, and Giving Back
Brother Offerman’s passion for woodworking began early, inspired by lessons from his father, grandfathers, and uncles. At the University of Illinois, he honed his skills in the scene shop, a foundation that proved invaluable during his early career in Chicago, where he built scenery and props for theater productions to supplement his acting income.
After moving to Los Angeles, Brother Offerman opened a modest shop in a warehouse and began collecting tools. Unable to find steady scenery work, he partnered with his friend Martin McClendon to build decks and cabins. The duo’s fascination with old-world furniture joinery inspired the creation of Offerman Woodshop.
Brother Offerman and other team members in the Offerman WorkshopLocated in East Los Angeles, Offerman Woodshop is a collective of talented makers who focus on hand-crafted, traditional joinery and sustainable slab rescue. They source fallen trees from urban LA and across California and Oregon, turning them into custom furniture and other creations. The workshop is deeply rooted in community engagement, collaborating with organizations like Angel City Lumber for locally salvaged wood and the nonprofit Would Works, where Brother Offerman serves on the board of directors. Would Works provides paid employment to individuals facing housing instability and employment barriers. This dedication to improving the lives of others shows that, inside, Brother Offerman beats the true and charitable heart of a Freemason.
Beyond his performances on stage and screen, Brother Offerman is also a celebrated author, having released four semi-autobiographical books that reflect his unique blend of humor, wisdom, and passion for craftsmanship:
- Paddle Your Own Canoe: One Man's Fundamentals for Delicious Living (2013)
- Gumption: Relighting the Torch of Freedom with America's Gutsiest Troublemakers (2015)
- Good Clean Fun: Misadventures in Sawdust at Offerman Woodshop (2016)
- Where the Deer and the Antelope Play: The Pastoral Observations of One Ignorant American Who Loves to Walk Outside (2021)
Personal Life
Brother Offerman and his wife, Megan MullallyOn September 20, 2003, Brother Offerman married actress Megan Mullally, whom he met during a 2000 production of The Berlin Circle at the Evidence Room Theatre Company. The couple’s chemistry extends beyond their personal lives; they have collaborated on several projects, including Will & Grace, Parks and Recreation, and The Great North. In 2016, they embarked on a live comedy tour that showcased their humor and candor about their relationship.
In Brother Nick Offerman, we have a shining example of what it means to be a role model for men—and Masons—today. He is a generous member of his community, a devoted husband, and a man continually honing his skills and crafts. Whether it’s comedy, writing, theater, or philanthropy, Brother Offerman is dedicated to making the most of his endeavors while conducting himself with integrity. Indeed, he is a walking, talking embodiment of our venerable fraternity’s values.