Dave Bean

Cast · Director · Writer

Born

October 24, 1960 · Boston, Massachusetts, USA

Dave Bean began acting while attending Eastern Michigan University, where he graduated with a degree in History & Political Science. Shortly after graduating, he made his professional stage debut in "My Sister Eileen" as Frank. After appearing in numerous regional theater productions, he moved to Los Angeles to pursue work in film and television. Upon arriving, he enrolled at Film Industry Workshops (FIWI), where classes were held at CBS/MTM Studios (Now CBS Studio Center). Notable alumni of FIWI include Sally Field and Debra Winger. Dave studied there for two productive years and credits the school for fostering his transition from stage performer to screen actor (and eventually director). Learning his craft on the sets of classic shows such as ThirtySomething, Newhart and St. Elsewhere, Dave began to book small roles in film and TV, playing a variety of cops, criminals, doctors and lawyers. Perhaps the highlight of this period was appearing on Twin Peaks as a sheriff's deputy in numerous episodes. He also capitalized on an opportunity to learn about the business side of the film/TV industry and began working in marketing for various studios and networks. During this time, Dave spent less time on-set and more time in the office. While the production knowledge he gained would later serve him well, eventually his more creative side would need to return to the forefront. Leaving the office full time and returning to set as an actor, Dave Bean began booking feature films, TV shows and national commercials. He also spent time on various Judd Apatow sets, introducing him to a new wave of comedy TV and film production. This led to being cast in pilots with Ben Stiller, Sarah Silverman and Neal Brennan - none of which went to series, but the lessons learned would prove to be invaluable. Perhaps it was his being cast by leading Indie film director Sean Baker (Tangerine, The Florida Project) in Starlet that had the biggest impact on Dave Bean's career. Working up close on this groundbreaking film ignited a desire in him to create his own projects. In addition, new avenues of digital distribution meant that there might be a platform for shows of his own making to find an audience. And that's exactly what happened. Dave applied the extensive filmmaking knowledge he gained on hundreds of film/TV and commercial sets through the years to became an efficient and facile "boots-on-the-ground" producer and director. In his fourth decade in the Film & TV Industry, Dave Bean continues to ply his various crafts as an actor/producer/director on his own projects, as well as being a reliable hired-hand for other creatives.