One of the Good Guys

As a kid growing up in Denver, John Wells dreamed of being a working writer. The fact that he became one, in a big way, doesn't surprise people who have worked with the writer-director-producer-showrunner on such series as China Beach, ER, The West Wing and Third Watch. To hear them tell it, Wells' work ethic and unflappable disposition are among the keys to his success (not to mention his legendary ability to multitask). As of Jan. 12, the multiple Emmy winner's accolades will include a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Wells, 55, who recently directed his first feature, 2010's The Company Men, and executive produces TNT's Southland and Showtime's Shameless, says he doesn't work in a silo. "I surround myself with talented people that I delegate to," says the former WGA West president. "That lets me roam and be involved in a lot of things."