Paul Reiser
Biography of Paul Reiser
Full Name and Common Aliases
Full Name: Paul Reiser
Common Aliases: None
Birth and Death Dates
Date of Birth: March 30, 1956
Date of Death: N/A
Nationality and Profession(s)
Nationality: American
Profession(s): Actor, Comedian, Writer, Musician
Early Life and Background
Paul Reiser was born on March 30, 1956, in New York City, New York, USA. He grew up in a Jewish family, the son of Helen, a homemaker, and Sam Reiser, a wholesale health food distributor. Reiser's upbringing in the bustling city of New York played a significant role in shaping his comedic sensibilities. He attended the prestigious Stuyvesant High School, where he began to hone his skills in performance and comedy.
Reiser continued his education at Binghamton University, where he majored in music. It was during his college years that he discovered his passion for stand-up comedy, performing at local clubs and gaining valuable experience that would later serve as the foundation for his career in entertainment. His early exposure to the vibrant cultural scene of New York City, combined with his academic background in music, provided Reiser with a unique perspective that he would later bring to his work in television and film.
Major Accomplishments
Paul Reiser's career took off in the 1980s when he transitioned from stand-up comedy to acting. He gained early recognition for his role in the 1982 film "Diner," directed by Barry Levinson. This breakout role showcased Reiser's natural comedic timing and ability to connect with audiences, setting the stage for his future success in Hollywood.
Reiser's most significant accomplishment came with the creation and starring role in the hit television sitcom "Mad About You," which aired from 1992 to 1999. The show, co-created with Danny Jacobson, was a critical and commercial success, earning numerous awards and nominations, including several Golden Globe and Emmy nominations for Reiser himself. "Mad About You" became a cultural touchstone of the 1990s, celebrated for its witty writing and the chemistry between Reiser and co-star Helen Hunt.
Notable Works or Actions
In addition to "Mad About You," Paul Reiser has appeared in a variety of notable films and television series. His film credits include roles in "Beverly Hills Cop" (1984) and its sequels, where he played Detective Jeffrey Friedman, and "Aliens" (1986), where he portrayed the character Carter Burke. These roles demonstrated Reiser's versatility as an actor, capable of delivering both comedic and dramatic performances.
Reiser also made a successful return to television with roles in series such as "Stranger Things" and "The Kominsky Method," showcasing his enduring appeal and adaptability in the ever-evolving entertainment industry. Beyond acting, Reiser is an accomplished author, having penned several books, including "Couplehood" and "Babyhood," which offer humorous insights into relationships and parenthood.
Impact and Legacy
Paul Reiser's impact on the entertainment industry is significant, particularly in the realm of television comedy. "Mad About You" not only entertained millions of viewers but also influenced a generation of sitcoms that followed. The show's exploration of marriage and relationships resonated with audiences, making it a beloved classic that continues to be appreciated by new generations.
Reiser's ability to blend humor with relatable storytelling has left a lasting legacy in both television and literature. His work has inspired countless comedians and writers, and his contributions to the genre of sitcoms have cemented his place as a respected figure in the world of entertainment.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Paul Reiser is widely quoted and remembered for his sharp wit, relatable humor, and insightful observations on everyday life. His quotes often reflect the humor and challenges of relationships, parenthood, and the human experience, making them resonate with a broad audience. Reiser's ability to articulate the nuances of life with humor and sincerity has made his words memorable and frequently cited.
His work, particularly in "Mad About You," continues to be celebrated for its clever writing and authentic portrayal of marriage, earning him a place in the pantheon of great television comedians. Reiser's enduring popularity and influence in the entertainment industry ensure that his quotes and contributions will be remembered for years to come.
Quotes by Paul Reiser
Paul Reiser's insights on:
And after you've done the acting, there's a lot of places you can put your input - in the editing, in the production of it, in the rewriting of it and so on.
But at the same time that the experience is pulling you apart, it's also bonding you. You have this joint venture! You both made this baby. And that's the thing I still can't get over.
But you get past that and realize you have to let go of what you think you want. There'll be plenty of time for that later. Right now, go and be with that baby. Just play with this beautiful little boy.
Every time I see Peter Falk in the movie I think that would be great. We'd be fun together.
Field of Dreams is the only movie - and I saw it in the theater - on an afternoon when I was on location somewhere, and there were like 12 people in the theater. I was just so devastated; I couldn't get out of my seat. And I sat and watched it a second time.
I remember my wife and I used to get on plane and see everybody else with their babies. They'd be putting strollers and car seats up above, and we'd think: Oh, please Lord, don't make us go through that.
I'd never directed before and this movie's too important to me to put in the hands of some guy who has never directed. Even if it's me.
It's not like some movies where you're following a bunch of different stories you can cut around. There was nowhere to cut to. It's these guys. We're not cutting back to anybody else.
Younger kids, they understand that things aren’t so perfect with their father or with their mother.
Parents often give middle names just so that later, when they’re yelling at the kid, they can drag it out. Henry David Thoreau, you come in here this instant!