Mitch Rouse

Biography

Mitch Rouse, born on August 6, 1964, is a multi-talented American actor, director, and screenwriter, known for his contributions to both film and television. Hailing from Oak Ridge, Tennessee, Rouse's journey in the entertainment industry began with a bold move to Chicago to study improvisation under the legendary Del Close. This decision led him to join the prestigious Second City Theatre, where he honed his craft alongside comedy greats like Steve Carell, Stephen Colbert, and Nia Vardalos.

His foray into feature films commenced with a memorable debut alongside Vince Vaughn and Jon Favreau in the inspiring sports drama "Rudy." Following this success, Rouse ventured to New York, where he starred alongside Amy Sedaris in the premiere of David Sedaris' play "Stitches" at La Mama Theatre, showcasing his versatility on stage.

In the realm of television, Rouse left an indelible mark as a writer and actor on Comedy Central's groundbreaking sketch comedy series, "EXIT 57," which he co-created with Stephen Colbert. The show garnered critical acclaim, earning five Cable Ace Award nominations, including nods for Best Actor (Rouse) and Best Writing for a comedy series.

Rouse's creative vision came to life in the darkly humorous independent film "Employee of the Month," where he took on the roles of writer and director, working alongside a talented ensemble cast that included Matt Dillon, Steve Zahn, and Christina Applegate. The film premiered at the prestigious Sundance Film Festival, receiving a standing ovation and glowing reviews.

Collaborating with Colbert and Amy Sedaris, Rouse co-created the beloved cult classic "Strangers With Candy," a dark comedy series that attracted a slew of A-list guest stars, solidifying its place in television history. The success of the show led to a feature film adaptation produced by David Letterman's World Wide Pants, marking another milestone for Rouse at Sundance.

Transitioning to ABC's "According to Jim," Rouse continued to push creative boundaries by spearheading SPIKE TV's venture into comedy with the critically acclaimed series "FACTORY," which he starred in and produced alongside his longtime friend and Second City alum, David Pasquesi.

In addition to his notable projects, Rouse has showcased his acting prowess in a diverse range of films and television shows, including "Transparent," "Reno 911!," "Friends With Money," "The Heartbreak Kid," and "Austin Powers," among others. His dedication to crafting unique characters with original voices continues to captivate audiences, solidifying his status as a versatile and accomplished talent in the entertainment industry.

Residing in Los Angeles with his wife Andrea and their children, Tennessee and Strummer, Mitch Rouse remains a creative force, shaping the landscape of film and television with his distinct storytelling and compelling performances.