Zach McGowan was born to Brenda and Vincent McGowan, and raised on the Upper West Side of New York City. He grew up with his two older brothers Doug and Matt McGowan. At an early age Zach found his calling while acting in school productions. His passion for the stage followed him through his high school and college years, where he met his wife Emily, and landed him in a few off-Broadway productions where he honed his craft.
Zach currently plays Captain Charles Vane on Black Sails (Starz) and Roan on The 100 (WB). Before that he played Jody Silverman on Shameless (Showtime).
Zach's film work includes Dracula Untold directed by Gary Shore, Terminator Salvation directed by McG, The Hunt for Eagle One (Sony Screen Gems) directed by Brian Clyde, Crash Point (Sony Screen Gems) directed by Henry Crum, and Seal Team Six directed by Mark Andrews. Zach guest-starred in the premiere episode of the 5th season of Numb3rs, and in CSI Miami, and Law and Order: Special Victims. Zach's short film work includes leading roles in The 14th Morning (LA International Short Film Festival, New Haven Film Festival, and The Method Festival), and Sadiq (official 2006 MTVU Student Film Maker Award Nominee, and winner Best Short at the San Luis Obispo International Film Festival) by Sean Mullin. Zach can also be heard in numerous advertisements, video games, and animation projects doing Voice Over work.
Zach and his family live in Los Angeles, and he is a member of both SAG and AFTRA.