Troy Kotsur Deaf American actor and director Date of Birth: 24.07.1968 Country: USA

1. Early Life and Education
2. Theater Career
3. Television and Film
4. "The Mandalorian" and "CODA"
5. Directing Ambition
6. Personal Life
7. Recognition and Awards

Early Life and Education

Troy Michael Kotzur was born on July 24, 1968, in Mesa, Arizona. He was diagnosed as deaf at nine months old. Undeterred, his parents, Jodi and Leonard Stephen Kotzur, learned sign language to communicate with him and provide him with a fulfilling childhood. They encouraged his athletic pursuits and social interactions with hearing children. Troy discovered his passion for acting in high school. He played a minor role in a pantomime at his drama club, showcasing his talent. After graduating, he interned at KTSP-TV, but his dreams of becoming a director were hindered by the lack of accessible language support in the industry. He subsequently pursued a degree in theater, television, and film at Gallaudet University.

Theater Career

During his university years, Kotzur joined the National Theatre of the Deaf. He toured the country for two years, performing in productions such as "In a Room Somewhere," "Treasure Island," and "Othello." In 1994, he joined Deaf West Theatre, where he expanded his repertoire with roles in "A Streetcar Named Desire," "Of Mice and Men," and "Big River." The latter play, in which Kotzur performed alongside hearing actor Lyle Kanouse, achieved unprecedented success on Broadway. He also participated in Stephen Sachs' "Cyrano" and "Spring Awakening."

Television and Film

Kotzur's television debut came in 2001 in "Strong Medicine." He later appeared in "Doc" and "Sue Thomas: F.B.Eye," where he met his future wife, actress Deanne Bray. He had a minor role in "CSI: NY" in 2006 and co-starred with Jim Carrey in "The Number 23" in 2007. In 2008, he starred in "Sign Gene," a drama that explored the life of a deaf man. He appeared in an episode of "Criminal Minds" in 2012 and directed his debut film, "No Ordinary Hero: The SuperDeafy Movie," in 2013.

"The Mandalorian" and "CODA"

Kotzur gained international recognition for his role in "The Mandalorian" (2019), adapting sign language for the series. In 2021, he portrayed a deaf father in the critically acclaimed film "CODA." His performance garnered widespread admiration and earned him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.

Directing Ambition

Kotzur is currently developing a sports drama that will feature an all-deaf cast. He aims to create more opportunities for deaf actors and filmmakers.

Personal Life

Troy Kotzur has been married to actress Deanne Bray for over 19 years. They share a daughter, Kyra. The couple resides in Los Angeles with their dog, Stella. Kotzur actively shares family photos and updates about his work on social media.

Recognition and Awards

In 2022, Kotzur won Critics' Choice and British Academy Film Awards for Best Supporting Actor for his role in "CODA." He continues to be a groundbreaking figure in the entertainment industry, shattering barriers and advocating for representation. His work has inspired countless deaf individuals and fostered a greater understanding and appreciation of deaf culture.