Keir Gilchrist
Early Life and Background
Keir David Peters Gilchrist was born on September 28, 1992, in Camden, London, England. Raised in Toronto, Canada, Keir developed an interest in acting at a young age. He attended the Annex Children's Theatre and further honed his craft at the Vaughan Road Academy, where he was part of the Interact Program, a specialized program for aspiring actors.
Breakthrough Role in 'United States of Tara'
Keir Gilchrist's breakout role came with the Showtime series 'United States of Tara' (2009-2011),where he played Marshall Gregson, the gay teenage son of the titular character. His performance was widely praised for its sensitivity and depth, helping to bring more nuanced LGBTQ+ representation to television.
Success with 'It's Kind of a Funny Story'
In 2010, Gilchrist starred in the coming-of-age dramedy 'It's Kind of a Funny Story'. He played Craig, a teenager who checks himself into a psychiatric hospital and learns about life and himself. The film was well-received, and Gilchrist's portrayal of the troubled yet hopeful teen earned him critical acclaim.
Starring Role in 'Atypical'
One of Gilchrist's most notable roles came with the Netflix series 'Atypical' (2017-2021). He played Sam Gardner, a teenager on the autism spectrum navigating high school and family life. The show was praised for its heartfelt and authentic portrayal of autism, and Gilchrist's performance was lauded for its authenticity and empathy.
Venturing into Horror with 'It Follows'
In 2014, Gilchrist appeared in the critically acclaimed horror film 'It Follows'. The film's unique premise and eerie atmosphere made it a standout in the genre, and Gilchrist's role as Paul, a supportive friend to the protagonist, showcased his versatility as an actor.
Other Notable Works
Besides his major roles, Keir Gilchrist has appeared in various films and television shows, further demonstrating his range. Some of his other works include:
- 'The Good Neighbor' (2016) - A psychological thriller where Gilchrist played one of two teens conducting a social experiment on their elderly neighbor.
- 'The Listener' (2009) - A Canadian drama series where he had a recurring role.
- 'Tales of Halloween' (2015) - An anthology horror film featuring Gilchrist in one of the segments.
Personal Life
Keir Gilchrist is known to be a private individual, keeping much of his personal life out of the public eye. Despite his British birthplace, he identifies closely with Canadian culture, having spent the majority of his life in Toronto. He is also a musician, performing as the lead vocalist in the death metal band Whelm.
Legacy and Impact
Keir Gilchrist has made significant contributions to both film and television, particularly through his roles in 'United States of Tara' and 'Atypical'. His ability to portray complex characters with empathy and authenticity has earned him a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim. As he continues to take on diverse roles, Gilchrist's impact on the entertainment industry is sure to grow.