Lynn Grossman, Bob Balaban’s wife, has had a significant impact on his long-running profession. He changed his career to directing, producing, and finally acting with her assistance.
Lynn Grossman remained at his side as a strong support system as Bob Balaban rose to fame in his multifaceted career with parts in classic films like Catch-22, Midnight Cowboy, and Close Encounters of the Third Kind.
Lynn Grossman, Bob Balaban’s Wife, and Her Influence on His Career
Without Grossman, viewers might not have had the opportunity to see Balaban at work in front of and behind the camera.
While attending junior college, Balaban tried his hand at acting for the first time. In fact, after reading a paper announcement for the Charlie Brown musical auction, his future wife encouraged him to take the stage.
He was chosen for the role of the original Linus in the 1967 off-Broadway premiere of You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown after holding an audition. And in his senior year, Mike Nichols gave him a part in Plaza Suite, a Broadway production of a Neil Simon play.
Lynn Grossman (Pinterest)Later, Nichols requested Balaban’s participation in the 1970 movie Catch-22. “I never thought I could be an actress because I’m too short and have a strange appearance. However, I suppose times had changed and actors were no longer required to have uniform appearances “In 2012, Balaban spoke with Publishers Weekly.
But that was only the beginning of his illustrious career.
His wife created a short film for him on one of his birthdays in his late 30s. Balaban’s interest in the entertainment industry changed as a result. In a 2003 interview with IGN, Balaban said, “That was sort of the beginning of my moving, dividing off my talents to directing and later producing.”
He then went on to direct Death Trap, his debut feature. It performed admirably and even won some awards. Immediately after that, the 77-year-old was allowed to direct the Tales from the Dark Side pilot. Once more, the pilot proved a financial success.
“I began to land employment. Sandy Dennis, Randy Quaid, Mary Beth Hurt, and I starred in my debut film, entitled Parents. Strangely enough, a 1958 film about cannibals used metaphor to represent his own life “Added he.
While traveling for a shoot, Balaban also sent several letters to his wife at home. Grossman then advised that he write a magazine piece, which finally resulted in a book.
Lynn Grossman (Pinterest)Marriage of Bob Balaban and Lynn
Balaban and Grossman first got to know one another in a writing class in college. They began dating and eventually got married on April 1st, 1977.
They have been wed for more than 45 years at this point. And the actor posted some vintage photos on Instagram in honor of their 45th wedding anniversary.
“Who imagined we would be in this situation 45 years ago on April 1st? April Fools’ Day is the ideal analogy for marriage. Regards for saying yes, @grossman Lynn.” He referred to his wife as his best friend in the post’s caption.
Their two kids, Hazel Balaban and Mariah Balaban were also shown in the post. Although their children have avoided the spotlight, they periodically show up on their parents’ social media.
On the occasion of International Women’s Day in 2021, Grossman published a photo of their daughters. They were described as “strong, sensitive, amazing daughters” by the author.