John Lurie(born December 14, 1952) is an American musician, painter, actor, director, and producer. He co-foundedThe Lounge Lizardsjazz ensemble, has acted in 19 films, includingStranger than ParadiseandDown by Law, has composed and performed music for 20 television and film works, and produced, directed, and starred in theFishing with Johntelevision series. In 1996 his soundtrack forGet Shortywas nominated for a Grammy Award, and his albumThe Legendary Marvin Pontiac: Greatest Hitshas been praised by critics and musicians alike. Since 2000 Lurie has suffered fromchronic Lyme diseaseand has focused his attention on painting.