Josh Gad

Early Life

Joshua Ilan Gad was born on February 23, 1981, in Hollywood, Florida. He grew up in a Jewish family, with a rich cultural heritage stemming from his father's Afghan roots and his mother's background as a Holocaust survivor. Gad attended the University School of Nova Southeastern University, where he excelled in oratory competitions, and later graduated from Carnegie Mellon College of Fine Arts in 2003 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in drama. During his college years, he formed lasting friendships with fellow Broadway stars, which would influence his future career.

Career

Gad's career began with his film debut in 2002's "Mary and Joe" and a television debut in 2005 on NBC's "ER." He gained recognition on Broadway, notably for his role as Elder Cunningham in the hit musical "The Book of Mormon," which opened in 2011. His voice work as Olaf in Disney's "Frozen" franchise further solidified his status in the entertainment industry. Gad's versatility extends to various genres, including comedy and drama, with roles in films like "Love & Other Drugs" and the animated series "Good Vibes."

Personal Life

In 2004, Gad met actress Ida Darvish while working on a play, and they married in 2008, welcoming two daughters into their family. He has been open about his struggles with anxiety, advocating for mental health awareness through initiatives like the #MyYoungerSelf campaign. Gad's passion for storytelling and connection with audiences is evident in his YouTube series "Reunited Apart," which he created during the pandemic to bring people together and share nostalgic moments.