Jeremy Piven, globally recognized for his role as Ari Gold in HBO’s hit show “Entourage”, is a dynamic actor who has entertained us for decades with his mesmerizing performances. But there’s more to this actor than what meets the eyes of the spectators. Let’s dive into some lesser-known facts about this brilliant artist.
From Stage To Screen
Jeremy Piven comes from a family that is deeply rooted in the theatre. His parents, Byrne Piven and Joyce Hiller Piven, were both actors and drama teachers. They ran the Piven Theatre Workshop in Chicago, a place where Jeremy gained his initial training in the art of acting. He later attended the prestigious Tisch School of the Arts in New York.
His First On-screen Role
Before Piven became a household name, he made his on-screen debut in a blink-and-you-miss-it role in the 1986 film, “Lucas”. He played the role of Spike, one minor character. From there, he gradually climbed the ladder to stardom.
Friends With John Cusack
Jeremy and John Cusack have been close friends for a long time. They went to high school together and shared many screen appearances, including some notable ones like “Say Anything…”, “Serendipity”, and “Grosse Pointe Blank”. The duo even studied under the same acting coach, making their bond stronger.
The Ari Gold Connection
Though Piven is globally celebrated for his portrayal of Ari Gold in the TV show “Entourage”, not everyone knows that this character is based on real-life Hollywood agent, Ari Emanuel. Piven won three back-to-back Emmy Awards (2006-2008) and a Golden Globe (2008) for this part.
Passion For Philanthropy
Apart from intriguing acting profiles, Piven actively invests his time and energy in philanthropy. A significant environmental activist, he hosted a show on Discovery Channel called “Journey of a Lifetime” that detailed his spiritual journey through India and his attempts to raise awareness about the environment.
His Love for Music
Jeremy Piven has a deep appreciation for music. He is a skilled drummer and played the drums for a band called “Bad Decisions”. His music taste reflects in his wide range from classic rock tunes to hip hop and electronic music.
Health Issues
In 2009, Piven faced a health scare when he was diagnosed with a high level of mercury in his system, widely believed to have come from his frequent sushi meals. He had to skip his Broadway performance, causing controversy, as some viewed it skeptically. But, on the positive side, he took this as a wake-up call to lead a healthier life going forward.
To keep up with his latest work and life updates, you can follow Jeremy Piven Facebook page.
Conclusion
Jeremy Piven continues to amaze us with his versatile performances. These lesser-known facts not only give us insight into his fascinating life but also introduce us to the human side of this adored celebrity. The combination of his talent, dedication, and passion for his craft is worthy of respect and admiration. Jeremy Piven is a true entertainer and a deeply committed artist.
