Biography: Paul Provenza

 

 

 

 

Northern Exposure fans know Paul Provenza from his role as Dr. Philip Capra, Fleischman's replacement as Cicely's town doctor, but few know of Provenza's long road to Cicely.

Born and raised in New York City, Provenza graduated from the prestigious Bronx High School of Science in 1975. Even before he graduated, Provenza was writing and performing standup comedy. He wrote " little radio shows," acted in school plays, and begged his way on stage at a local nightclub. After high school, Provenza went on to the University of Pennsylvania, but continued to perform standup on weekends. He graduated with the first Theatre Arts degree in the history of the university and then continued his studies in London with the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts. Since then, he has done everything from Shakespeare in London to specials on Comedy Central.

Provenza is perhaps best known for his comedy. His one-man show, The Incredible Man-Boy for Showtime, which he wrote, produced, and performed, was critically acclaimed. One of his many projects for Comedy Central, Comics Only, was nominated for two Cable Ace Awards. In addition, Provenza has also appeared as a comedian on almost every major talk show.

Provenza did not just limit himself to standup -- he also made innumerable TV appearances before he joined the cast of Northern Exposure. He was a series regular on Empty Nest, as well as the star of his own show, The Pursuit of Happiness. Viewers may also remember him from appearances on The Facts of Life and Under the Influence. Since Northern Exposure, Provenza has concentrated on comedy projects and a return to theater, appearing in the title role of Steve Martin's Picasso at the Lapin Agile.

After Northern Exposure, Provenza was in films Nothing Sacred (1997), The Hungry Bachelor's Club (1999), Fixing Frank (2002), and Stealing Candy (2002). He has had a handful of television appearances including The West Wing.

In 2005, Provenza directed a short film documentary, "The Aristrocrats." Produced by Penn Jillette (Penn & Teller), the film debuted at Sundance.

See Paul Provenza's Bio page At Patterson & Associates. Read an interview about his role on NX. More on TV Tome.

See when Paul Provenza is on TV.

© Copyright, 2005 • Northern Exposure is Copyright © Universal City Studios. All Rights Reserved. • Created 12/22/01 • Updated 6/29/05