Gary Basaraba, a distinguished and accomplished Canadian thespian, made his entrance into the world on March 16, 1959, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey in the world of entertainment. Throughout his illustrious career, he has garnered widespread recognition for his captivating portrayals of American law enforcement officials in a diverse array of television series and films.
One of his most memorable and iconic roles was that of Sergeant Richard Santoro in the acclaimed police drama Brooklyn South, a production masterminded by the visionary Steven Bochco. Additionally, his depiction of Officer Ray Heckler in the highly acclaimed television series Boomtown further cemented his status as a talented and versatile actor, capable of bringing depth and nuance to his characters.
Basaraba's unwavering dedication to authenticity is strikingly evident in his body of work, as he not only courageously performed his own daring driving stunts in the film Boomtown, but also meticulously ensured that the depiction of police procedures was painstakingly accurate.
Throughout his illustrious career, Basaraba has consistently demonstrated his impressive range as an actor, showcasing his remarkable versatility through his diverse and extensive filmography.
Notable among Basaraba's impressive array of credits is his impressive repertoire of roles in a diverse range of productions, including the critically acclaimed Sweet Dreams, the beloved family classic Charlotte's Web, and the enchanting holiday film One Magic Christmas, in which he brought to life the character of Jack Grainger alongside the talented Mary Steenburgen.
Not only has Basaraba made a significant impact in the realm of television, but he has also made notable appearances in the esteemed Law & Order franchise, showcasing his versatility as an actor by taking on diverse roles. In the original series, he effortlessly embodied the character of a bartender, while in the episode "The Brotherhood", he brought depth and nuance to the role of a corrections officer. Furthermore, his presence in the fifth season of Special Victims Unit (SVU) was a testament to his range as a performer. Looking ahead, Basaraba is set to lend his voice to the character of Hefty Smurf in the upcoming live-action/CG family film The Smurfs, a project that promises to delight audiences of all ages.
