Dan Levy has quickly become a household name in the entertainment industry, thanks to his exceptional talent and creative vision. Born on August 9, 1983, in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, Levy has made a significant impact as an actor and filmmaker. From his early beginnings as a television host on MTV Canada to his groundbreaking work on the hit sitcom Schitt’s Creek, Levy’s career has been nothing short of remarkable.
Dan Levy was born to Eugene Levy and Deborah Divine in Toronto, Ontario. His father, Eugene Levy, is a well-known actor and comedian, while his mother, Deborah Divine, comes from a Protestant background. Levy had the unique experience of growing up in a household that celebrated both Christmas and Hanukkah, as his father is Jewish. He had a bar mitzvah, embracing his Jewish heritage while also appreciating his mother’s Protestant faith.
Levy attended North Toronto Collegiate Institute for high school and later pursued film production at both York University and Ryerson University. These early educational experiences laid the foundation for his future career in the entertainment industry.
Levy’s career in the limelight began when he joined MTV Canada as one of the original seven co-hosts of the flagship series MTV Live. He quickly gained popularity as the co-host of various shows, including The After Show and its spin-offs, such as The Hills: The After Show and The City: Live After Show. Levy’s charismatic presence and quick wit made him a favorite among viewers.
During his time at MTV Canada, Levy also ventured into acting. He appeared in a four-episode story arc of the Canadian TV series Degrassi: The Next Generation, playing the role of a film producer. This marked his entry into the world of television acting and laid the groundwork for his future success.
In 2015, Dan Levy co-created the CBC sitcom Schitt’s Creek with his father, Eugene Levy. The show follows the journey of the wealthy Rose family, who suddenly find themselves broke and are forced to live in a small town they once bought as a joke. Levy not only co-created the series but also portrayed the character of David Rose, the witty and flamboyant son of the Rose family.
Schitt’s Creek quickly gained international recognition and critical acclaim. The show became a cultural phenomenon, with its unique blend of humor, heartwarming storytelling, and exceptional performances. Levy’s portrayal of David Rose, a pansexual character, garnered particular attention and praise for its authentic representation.
The success of Schitt’s Creek was further solidified by the numerous awards and nominations it received. Levy won Primetime Emmy Awards for producing, writing, directing, and acting in the final season of the show. Schitt’s Creek also made history by becoming the first series to win a Primetime Emmy Award in all four major comedy acting categories in a single year. Additionally, Levy received four Canadian Screen Awards and a total of 18 nominations for his work on the show.
With the conclusion of Schitt’s Creek, Dan Levy has continued to make waves in the entertainment industry. In August 2020, he enrolled in and promoted the 12-week self-paced Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) titled “Indigenous Canada” hosted by the University of Alberta. Levy hosted livestream interviews with course instructors and guest speakers, sparking meaningful discussions and encouraging donations to the university’s Faculty of Native Studies.
Levy also ventured into film, starring alongside Bette Midler, Kaitlyn Dever, Sarah Paulson, and Issa Rae in the HBO television film Coastal Elites. The project, shot remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic, explored the lives of five individuals navigating these challenging times.
In February 2021, Levy hosted Saturday Night Live, showcasing his comedic chops and further expanding his reach as a versatile entertainer. He also signed a three-year deal with ABC Signature in September 2019 and later inked an overall deal with Netflix in September 2021 to write and produce scripted content across film and TV.
Dan Levy divides his time between Toronto and Los Angeles, with a special fondness for London, where he lived in 2005. He has been open about his sexual orientation, coming out as gay at the age of 18. Levy’s honesty and authenticity have made him an influential figure within the LGBTQ+ community, and he continues to use his platform to advocate for equality and acceptance.
In addition to his advocacy work, Levy is actively involved in philanthropy. He has supported various causes and initiatives, including fundraising for LGBT youth organizations. On his birthday in 2019, fans of Schitt’s Creek raised $20,000 in his honor to benefit LGBT youth.
Filmography
Throughout his career, Dan Levy has showcased his versatility as both an actor and filmmaker. Here are some notable works from his filmography:
Film
- Cyberstalker (2012)
- Admission (2013)
- Happiest Season (2020)
Television
- Schitt’s Creek (2015–2020)
- Degrassi: The Next Generation (2006)
- The Great Canadian Baking Show (2017-2019)
- Saturday Night Live (2021)
Music Video
- “Robot Bullies” by WEtv (2017)
Awards and Recognition
Dan Levy’s talent and contributions to the entertainment industry have been widely recognized. Here are some of the awards and nominations he has received:
- Primetime Emmy Awards: Outstanding Comedy Series, Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series, Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series, and Outstanding Directing for a Comedy Series (Schitt’s Creek)
- Canadian Screen Awards: Best Comedy Series, Best Writing in a Comedy Program or Series, and Best Comedy Series (Schitt’s Creek)
- Order of Canada (2023)
Dan Levy’s journey from a television host to a celebrated actor and filmmaker is a testament to his talent, hard work, and dedication. With his role in Schitt’s Creek, he not only entertained audiences worldwide but also broke barriers and brought important LGBTQ+ representation to the screen. As Levy continues to explore new projects and expand his horizons, his impact on the industry will undoubtedly continue to grow. Through his philanthropic endeavors and advocacy work, he serves as an inspiration to countless individuals around the world. Dan Levy is a true rising star, and his future in the entertainment industry looks incredibly bright.
