Canadian actor, director, producer Paul Gross (photos are presented on the page) was born on April 30, 1959 in the city of Calgary, in the Canadian province of Alberta. He became famous thanks to the role of Benton Fraser, a constable of mounted police in the television series Strictly South. In addition to the main role, the actor also acted as a producer of the first three series, and then the final one.
First successes
The next series, “Sling and Arrow,” where Paul Gross played a fundamental role, added to the actor’s popularity. Even then, the charismatic handsome began to receive invitations from the directors of dramatic scenes.
Paul Gross studied the art of acting at the University of Edmonton, but did not complete the course, left his studies in the third year. A few years later he returned to university to complete his studies.
Paul did not have money, he had to earn extra money by acting in various commercials. To pay for the studies, this earnings was somehow enough, otherwise the future actor tried to lead a Spartan lifestyle.
After graduation, Paul Gross went to work in the theater, where he quickly became the most sought-after actor, playing exclusively classics. In his repertoire were the roles of Hamlet, Romeo Montecchi and many other characters of William Shakespeare.
Once Paul Gross acted as Hamlet in a theater in which he once sold entrance tickets.
Great movie
On the movie screen, Paul made his debut as a screenwriter, writing the dramatic play "In This Corner". The director of the film was Atom Egoyan.
Subsequently, Gross will write many scripts that will be awarded prizes.
At the turn of the 80s and 90s, Paul starred in the thriller “Cold Trap” directed by Vick Sarin and in the comedy “In Sorrow and Joy” directed by Arthur Hiller, followed by a comedy film directed by Paul Donovan entitled “Northern Extremes”.
Music
Gross, among other things, was also a talented performer of hits. Sometimes he even acted as a songwriter, and wrote both music and lyrics. He collaborated with the band The Bonemen, toured as a vocalist. In 1997, he recorded his first album, entitled Two Homes, and in 2001 released another CD, Love and the Bloody Slaughter.
Widespread fame
The character of Benton Fraser in the TV series "Strictly South" was for Paul an impetus for popularity. The constable was loved by the entire female half of the globe. The policeman in the eyes of admirers became the embodiment of a perfect, perfect man.
In March 2002, Gross paired with the famous Leslie Nielsen received the title of "Honorary Citizen of Winnipeg." The reason for this was a new film called "Boys with Brooms" dedicated to curling players. At the same time, both actors became honorary members of the local curling club, although neither of them knew how to play.
The painting "Boys with Brooms" became Gross's debut as a director. The script was also written by Paul, he also played a major role in the film. Moreover, the actor and music wrote for this film project.
In 2004, Gross starred in the comedy directed by McAvor, entitled "Wilby the Magnificent."
Paul released his next major movie project on the big screen in 2008. It was a drama of military historical content "Pashendal", dedicated to the fierce battles of the First World War. And this time, Gross took on almost all the functions of creating the film. He wrote the script, acted as a director, played a major role, performed the duties of a producer.
Gross was repeatedly invited to Hollywood, but he invariably replied to all offers with a polite refusal, remaining faithful to his hometown of Calgary. Only once he accepted an offer from American film studios, starred in secondary roles and left for his homeland, without waiting for the films with his participation to be released.
Personal life
The actor was married only once. He met his wife actress Marta Burns in the fall of 1988 at the theater when they worked on the production of the play "Welsh." The creative tandem has survived until now, from time to time the couple go on stage together. The couple has two children: son Jack, born in 1990, and daughter Hannah, four years younger than her brother. Parents photographed their heirs many times, but each time someone fell out of the frame.
Pictures under the name "Paul Gross, a photo with the whole family" he does not manage to do. Son Jack hates taking pictures. In a word, the actor’s family photos are not yet ready, you need to wait.
But Paul Gross has a lot of photos with his wife, the actor wears pictures with the image of his beloved wife in each pocket.
Filmography
During his career, Gross has starred in more than thirty films. The following is a sample list of films with his participation:
- The Cold Trap (1989), Stefan Miller;
- "The Broomsticks" (2002), Chris Cutter;
- Wilby the Magnificent (2004), Buddy French;
- The Trojan Horse (2007), Thomas;
- Paschendal (2008), Michael Dunn;
- Unarmed (2010), Barney;
Currently, Paul is working on the next film project.