Ross Geller a.k.a. David Schwimmer

About the character: Across the alley from Monica and Chandler is Monica’s hapless brother Ross, a paleontology professor who has been divorced three times, including once from Rachel

Bio: David Schwimmer, who was born in New York, but raised in Los Angeles, grew up with both his parents and sister, Ellie. His first exposure to acting came when he signed up for a drama program as a student at Beverly Hills High School. He signed up because of an unexplained impulse, because before he considered acting, he was choosing between taking a career either being a doctor or a lawyer.

As it turned out, David was a good actor and most importantly enjoyed it. After he finished the course, he was encouraged to enter a summer program the Northwestern University in Chicago. After that program, David was sure that he would take the acting path.

Following his High School graduation, David returned to Northwestern and graduated in 1988 with a B.S. degree in speech/theater. That same year, David, as well as seven of his fellow graduates, founded the Lookingglass Theater Company in Chicago. He still works on it to this day, by helping out financially, acting in some plays, while directing others.

In 1993 David made his debut as a television-series regular on the comedy "Monty." Then came the year that would begin his triumphant and successful career, 1994. The hit TV series Friends began, in which Schwimmer played Ross, a dorky, yet lovable character. He was nominated for an Emmy Award in 1995 for Best Actor in a Comedy Series.

Following his success from Friends, David took on a wider interest in writing, producing, and directing. Some of his directing and producing credits include Kissing a Fool and Since You've Been Gone. He has also directed some Friends episodes.

David has proven he can be a great actor, and if that fire burns out he still has writing, acting, and producing to back him up. He excels in anything he wishes to achieve. It is unimaginable what the future holds for this great actor.