(Reprinted from Thornhill Month, November 1998)
By SEAN B. PASTERNAK
For those who weren't fortunate enough to catch Thornhill native Ernie Grunwald during his performances locally, you will now have the opportunity to see him on prime time television.
As 'Paul', Grunwald plays a student on the top-rated ABC situation comedy Two of a Kind (Friday nights at 8:00 p.m.), which also features former Full House stars Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen.
"He's kind of a goofy character," Grunwald says of 'Paul'. "He's providing comic relief."
Originally a one-time appearance, Grunwald's character was invited back for a second episode. From there, his character was cast for an additional 5 episodes (totaling 7 out of the original 12 episodes ordered by ABC), and is working on becoming a regular character on the show.
In addition, Grunwald has landed a recurring role in the sitcom It's Like, You Know, a Seinfeld-esque program set in Los Angeles that could be picked up as a mid-season replacement come January.
"It's not 100 per cent for sure, but it's very likely," Grunwald says on the show's chances of being picked up.
If both shows continue on with Grunwald, he could become quite a busy actor. "They shoot on different days, and they're both on ABC, which makes things easier," he says.
When he was living in Thornhill, Grunwald became a standout in drama at Thornlea Secondary School, and even assisted instructors during his latter years.
From there, he moved on to the theatre program at the University of Toronto, and started acting in commercials in his senior year.
While there was some work to be had in Canada, Grunwald knew that the American market was the place to be to get recognized.
"There's more of a market there, but there's also a lot more competition, so you have to be a lot more persistent," he says. While working in New York, Grunwald was able to land roles in the David Letterman company-produced The High Life as well as a pilot by Disney, but getting a work visa was quite an involved process. "You have to get a visa for each specific job you do, and that's a big, bureaucratic process; there's a lot of headaches and money," he says.
Eventually, Grunwald was able to land green card status, which "took a lot of the pressure off".
Upon moving to West Hollywood, Grunwald auditioned for the role of 'Paul' and was cast into Two of a Kind. "I'm happy to do it," he says. "It's a good, quality show and it's getting quite a following.
"Everyone on the set is all hugs and smiles, and that's kind of rare for L.A."
As for his following back in Thornhill, Grunwald cannot say enough positive things about them.
"Everyone at home has been unconditionally supportive," he says. "I've always had the support of my family and friends, and I'm still very close to a lot of people from Thornlea."
