Paul Dinello

Paul Dinello, born on November 28, 1962, is a multifaceted American actor, comedian, writer, and director hailing from Chicago. He is a graduate of renowned improvisational establishments like The Second City, Improv Institute, and Annoyance Theatre. Dinello gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of Geoffrey Jellineck, the closeted gay art teacher on Comedy Central's cult classic, *Strangers with Candy*. His character engages in a humorous yet complicated relationship with fellow colleague Chuck Noblet, played by Stephen Colbert. Notably, Dinello shared a personal connection with the show’s star, Amy Sedaris, with whom he was in a relationship for eight years after their initial meeting at Second City.

In 2003, Dinello collaborated with Sedaris and Colbert to co-author the novel *Wigfield*, which they further promoted through a touring theatrical adaptation. He has made memorable guest appearances on *The Colbert Report*, portraying Tad, the unfortunate building manager often subjected to Colbert's comedic antics.

Dinello's creative contributions extend to his role as writer, producer, and director for the *Strangers with Candy* film, released in 2006. He is also known for his part in the sketch comedy series *Exit 57*, along with Sedaris and Colbert, and for his role as Mr. Rooney in the film *Be Kind Rewind*. More recently, he directed the Nickelodeon movie *Gym Teacher: The Movie*, featuring Christopher Meloni and Amy Sedaris, and appeared in the Science Channel series *Oddities*.