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Dave Bean started acting while attending Eastern Michigan University, where he earned a degree in History & Political Science. Soon after graduating, he made his professional stage debut as Frank in "My Sister Eileen." After performing in numerous regional theater productions, he relocated to Los Angeles to pursue film and television work. Upon arrival, he enrolled at Film Industry Workshops (FIWI), held at CBS/MTM Studios (now CBS Studio Center). Notable FIWI alumni include Sally Field and Debra Winger. Dave studied there for two productive years and credits the program with helping him transition from stage acting to screen acting and eventually directing.
He honed his craft on the sets of classic shows like ThirtySomething, Newhart, and St. Elsewhere, landing small roles as cops, criminals, doctors, and lawyers. A highlight of this phase was his recurring role as a sheriff's deputy on Twin Peaks. During this time, he also explored the business side of the industry by working in marketing for various studios and networks. While this gave him valuable production knowledge, his creative instincts eventually led him back to acting.
Leaving the office full-time, Dave returned to acting on set, booking feature films, TV shows, and national commercials. He worked on several Judd Apatow productions, which introduced him to a new wave of comedy in television and film. This exposure led to pilot roles alongside Ben Stiller, Sarah Silverman, and Neal Brennan—none of which became series, but each provided invaluable experience.
A pivotal moment in Dave's career came when he was cast by acclaimed indie director Sean Baker (Tangerine, The Florida Project) in the film Starlet. Working closely on this innovative project inspired him to create his own work. The rise of digital distribution also offered new platforms for his projects to reach audiences. Drawing on his extensive filmmaking experience from hundreds of film, TV, and commercial sets, Dave evolved into a skilled and efficient producer and director.
Now in his fourth decade in the Film & TV industry, Dave Bean continues to work as an actor, producer, and director on his own projects while also serving as a dependable collaborator for other creatives.
