Paul Walter Hauser Bio
Paul Walter Hauser (born October 15, 1986) is an American actor known for his roles in various films and television series. He gained significant acclaim for his portrayal of serial killer Larry Hall in the true crime miniseries Black Bird, for which he won a Golden Globe Award and a Primetime Emmy Award. Hauser’s notable roles include playing the title character in Clint Eastwood’s Richard Jewell and portraying Stingray in Cobra Kai. He has also ventured into professional wrestling, showcasing his diverse talents in entertainment.
Early Life and Background
Paul Walter Hauser was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and raised in Saginaw, Michigan. He is the son of Deborah and Rev. Paul Hauser, a Lutheran minister. Hauser attended Valley Lutheran High School, a private parochial school in Saginaw, where he began to develop his interest in performing arts. He later attended Concordia University Chicago but dropped out to pursue a career in the entertainment industry.
Path to Hollywood
Hauser’s journey into acting began with small roles and extra work. He made his acting debut in the 2010 film Virginia, where he was initially cast as an extra. His performance caught the attention of director Dustin Lance Black, who subsequently wrote him a larger role. This opportunity marked the beginning of a series of notable performances, including a recurring role in the Amazon web series Betas and appearances in various television series such as Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt and It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia. His breakthrough came in 2019 when he starred as Richard Jewell in Clint Eastwood’s film of the same name, which garnered him widespread recognition.
Paul Walter Hauser Career
Early Career (2005–2018)
Paul Walter Hauser began his professional acting career in 2005. His early work included roles in films like I, Tonya and Super Troopers 2, as well as television appearances in shows like Kingdom. He received critical acclaim for his role in Richard Jewell, which solidified his status as a talented actor in Hollywood. Hauser’s performances often blend humor with depth, showcasing his versatility as an actor.
Breakthrough (2019–Present)
Hauser’s portrayal of Richard Jewell in the 2019 film was a defining moment in his career, earning him significant attention and praise. Following this, he starred in the 2021 Disney film Cruella, where he played Horace Badun. His role in the 2022 miniseries Black Bird as Larry Hall was a pivotal point, leading to his wins for both the Golden Globe Award and the Primetime Emmy Award in 2023. His performance was noted for its complexity and depth, establishing him as a formidable talent in dramatic roles.
Notable Works and Milestones
Paul Walter Hauser’s signature works include Richard Jewell and Black Bird, both of which have earned him critical acclaim and prestigious awards. His ability to portray complex characters has made him a sought-after actor in both film and television.
Paul Walter Hauser Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Paul Walter Hauser has received several nominations for his performances, particularly for his role in Black Bird, which has been recognized by major award bodies.
Paul Walter Hauser Awards Won
Paul Walter Hauser has won notable awards, including the Golden Globe Award for Best Actor and the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited Series, both for his performance in Black Bird.
Paul Walter Hauser Family
Paul Walter Hauser is married to Amy Elizabeth Boland, whom he wed on July 23, 2020, in Los Angeles, California. The couple has three children: sons Harris, born in 2021, and Jonah, born in 2023, and a daughter, Isla Grace, born in 2025.
Personal Life
Paul Walter Hauser is a Christian and has been open about his faith. He and his wife Amy have participated in a video series for the online Christian multimedia movement I Am Second, sharing their experiences and beliefs.
