Person Biography:
Gary was born and raised in Bergen County, New Jersey, where his life initially revolved around athletics, being the son of a semi-professional athlete and coach. He dreamed of playing professional football, but a severe knee injury forced him to pivot. Instead, he pursued athletics in college as a wrestler and intramural participant at the University of Florida, where he also earned a degree in Physical Education.
However, fate took him in a different direction. Gary had played the saxophone since the age of nine and was recruited to play in a 1950s and 1960s band in Orlando. This unexpected turn led to a new career in music. He went on to perform with renowned artists such as Dick Dale, Mitch Ryder, and the Detroit Wheels, The Coasters, Mary Wilson, Air Supply, Junior Walker, The Shirelles, Sonny Turner, Johnny Rivers, The Association, Gary Lewis and the Playboys, The Crystals, Gary Puckett, Gary US Bonds, Johnny Maestro, Lou Christie, DJ Fontana, Marty Stuart, The Comets, and many more.
Gary's entry into the film industry was also an unexpected turn. While living in South Florida, he was cast as an extra in the film "Spring Break," which showcased the vibrant nightlife in Fort Lauderdale. His scenes caught the attention of a producer, who offered him a supporting role in the film "Spring Fever USA." This led to a string of teen romps, including "Porky's 2 and 3," "Coco Bay Bed Race" with Dana Plato, and "Smokey and the Bandits."
As Gary became more interested in behind-the-scenes work, he decided to pursue further training in New York. He attended the prestigious Center for Media Arts, the Lee Strasberg Institute, and the American Stage Conservatory at Fairleigh Dickinson University, where he studied under the guidance of renowned actor Paul Sorvino.
Gary eventually relocated to Los Angeles, where he continued to hone his craft, working with Denzel Washington and Tony Danza, and even producing his own projects. He co-produced the film "Caged Fury" and associate-produced the campy comedy "South Beach Academy" starring Corey Feldman, James Hong, and Al "Grandpa Munster" Lewis.
Gary has also produced, written, and directed several projects, including the fifties-style musical variety sitcom "Harmony Street," which aired nationally on the Nostalgia Cable Network, as well as a short documentary, "Joe Franklin-Down Memory Lane," and a pilot for a series about disabled athletes, "The Human Race," which received acclaim at the Paralympic Congress Disability Film Festival.
Throughout his career, Gary has maintained his passion for athletics, competing in numerous triathlons, adventure races, Xterras, and other events. He has also developed a love for horses, riding, and creating video content for rodeos. As of 2018, Gary is developing a modern-day western TV series to be produced in Arizona.
