Erik Athavale

Erik Athavale (pronounced 'ah-TUV-lay') was born in Windsor, Ontario, to Emily, a Canadian of Polish descent, and Ashok, an immigrant from India. After discovering a passion for acting in high school, Athavale attended the University of Winnipeg, majoring in Education (inspired by his parents who were both educators) with a Theatre minor. He changed course midway through his studies and earned a degree in marketing from the University of Manitoba. In 2012, Athavale renewed his focus on acting and has since become a sought-after supporting and character actor in TV and film. Most recently he has completed supporting roles in feature films like the upcoming "November 1963" (from Oscar Nominee/Palme d'Or winner Roland Joffé), the AGBO-produced horror feature "All Fun and Games," and the thriller "Bed Rest". He has also entertained television audiences in recurring, guest star, and featured roles in the upcoming MGM+ anthology series "American Hostage", CBS's "Ghosts", the acclaimed CTV Comedy series "Acting Good", CTV/The CW's "The Spencer Sisters", CBC's "Burden of Truth," and CityTV's "Sunnyside." Uniquely, Athavale played the lead in the internationally acclaimed short film "Wolf in Dude's Clothing," (30 million+ global mentions on TikTok) which showcased his knack for conveying emotional range through facial expressions and mannerisms. A versatile character actor, Athavale has had standout performances in cheery Hallmark movies and tense dramas alike. He has shared scenes with Jon Hamm, Sarah Paulson, Mandy Patinkin, Bob Odenkirk, Hilary Swank, Alan Ritchson, Lea Thompson, Giovanni Ribisi, Michelle Monaghan, Chrissy Metz, Alan Arkin, and more. Off-screen, Athavale is an in-demand audition coach, emerging screenwriter, and brand strategist in the advertising and marketing industry in Western Canada. He is also an avid traveler and devoted caregiver to his hounds, who dominate his Instagram feed.