Samuel Paul Giamatti is actor Paul Giamatti’s son. Although he was born into a family of entertainers, Samuel is a star in his own right, carving out a path different from his accomplished parents.
Samuel Paul Giamatti's deep connection to the world of entertainment is evident in his very veins. He is the son of none other than renowned actor Paul Giamatti and Elizabeth Cohen Giamatti, a celebrated director and producer.
Amid his parents' stellar achievements, Samuel is shaping his own narrative—one that stands apart from his mother and father, leaning toward a quieter life.
Paul Giamatti with his son Samuel Paul Giamatti and Ted Hope with his child Michael Hope attend the Nantucket Film Festival 8 - Farewell Brunch at The Johnson Estate in 2003 in Nantucket, Massachusetts. | Source: Getty Images
Samuel Paul Giamatti's Family Influence
Like his father, Paul Giamatti, Samuel is fond of the arts, acting, and other creative pursuits. But his father has taken a balanced approach to Samuel's interests, neither pushing him into the industry nor holding him back. In a candid interview, Samuel's father said:
"I wouldn't discourage my son from acting, but neither would I encourage it actively. Sam is interesting, a funny combination of being a little shy and sometimes enjoying stuff like acting... He likes to read and watch movies like I did at his age."
Aside from his father being an actor, his mother, Elizabeth Cohen Giamatti, is also deeply entrenched in the industry as a distinguished producer and director. She is known for projects like "A Woman Like Me" (2015), "Cold Souls" (2009), and "Three Girls and Their Brother."
Paul Giamatti and Elizabeth Cohen Giamatti pose with his Best Male Lead Spirit Award for the film "Sideways" at the 2005 IFP Independent Spirit Awards. | Source: Getty Images
Coming from a household that embraces diversity of thought and heritage, Samuel's upbringing was unique. His father identifies as an atheist, whereas his mother follows the Jewish faith. Within this dynamic environment, Samuel was immersed in Jewish traditions and even learned Hebrew as part of his cultural journey.
While his parents thrive in show business, Samuel has chosen a private life, keeping his social media accounts, like Instagram, private.
During his youth, Samuel did not partake in Christmas celebrations. His own father grew up never believing in Santa Claus, so it was simply not integrated into their family traditions. Owing to his mother's Jewish background, Samuel observed Hanukkah as their customary holiday celebration.
Paul Giamatti and Elizabeth Cohen Giamatti attend the "American Splendor" film premiere at the Chelsea West Theater on August 12, 2003, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images
Samuel's Parents Went through a Quiet Divorce
Samuel's parents tied the knot in 1997. His mother was 35 at the time and worked as a writer in New York. On the other hand, his father was 30 and had already made waves in the acting world, particularly with his roles in ''Three Sisters'' at the Roundabout Theater Company and as Howard Stern's boss in ''Private Parts.''
However, their marriage eventually fell apart. The couple's divorce remained hidden from the public eye for years. It wasn't until 2016 that the actor's publicist confirmed that the couple had divorced over five years prior.
During this period, gossip websites and social media were abuzz with speculations about their split, sparked by sightings of Samuel's father alone outside his residence. Then, in 2019, Samuel's dad found himself in the spotlight again when he was pictured enjoying the company of a mysterious woman at a Rangers game.
Paul Giamatti and Elizabeth Cohen Giamatti attend the "Lady in the Water" New York Premiere-Outside Arrivals at the American Museum of Natural History on July 17, 2006, in New York City, New York. | Source: Getty Images
Samuel Now Leads a Private Life
According to his LinkedIn profile, Samuel is a senior student at Brown University, pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science and Government. He previously worked as a freelance journalist and took on the role of a research assistant at Brown University.
Currently, Samuel has shifted gears to pursue his passion for scenic design and carpentry, gaining hands-on experience as a Scenic and Props Intern at the Clubbed Thumb theater company in New York City.
While his parents thrive in show business, Samuel has chosen a private life, keeping his social media accounts, like Instagram, private. Although he now leads a quiet life away from the spotlight, Samuel once shared a special experience with his dad at a public event.
Paul Giamatti and Elizabeth Cohen Giamatti pose at the Fox Golden Globe After Party at the Beverly Hilton Hotel on January 16, 2004, in Beverly Hills, California. | Source: Getty Images
He attended the Nantucket Film Festival in Massachusetts during his younger years, even posing for the cameras with his father. But presently, Samuel is determined to carve his own path away from the shadows of his famous parents.
Samuel is among the rare celebrity children who have chosen to step aside from their famous parents' spotlight. Noteworthy examples are Martin Short's sons, Henry Hayter Short and Oliver Patrick Short, who lead peaceful lives away from public attention.
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