Edson began a career in music in 1979 and was the original drummer for the band, Sonic Youth, but transitioned to acting in 1984, playing Eddie in Jim Jarmusch’s Stranger Than Paradise.

Edson has 114 acting projects according to IMDB in both film and TV. Often referred to as a character actor, one who specializes in playing eccentric or unusual people rather than leading roles, Edson is often a scene stealer (to prove the point, he played the garage attendant in Ferris Bueller’s Day Off. “Uh, what country do you think this is?”).

Edson’s roles were often minor, but they were minor parts in major movies, including: Desperately Seeking Susan, Howard the Duck, Platoon, Good Morning, Vietnam, Eight Men Out, Strange Days, and Do the Right Thing.

IMDB page