Eddie Barbanell

Edward “Eddie” Barbanell is an American actor and comedian with Down syndrome, best known for his role as Billy in the 2005 film The Ringer. Throughout his career, he has played both lead and supporting roles, showcasing his talents despite the challenges posed by his disability. Eddie’s journey proves that he turned his condition into an advantage, building a successful career in the entertainment industry.

Early Life

Eddie was born on August 14, 1977, in St. Petersburg, Florida. He is relatively private about his family, never disclosing details about his parents or siblings. Eddie developed a passion for acting early on, graduating from Coral Springs High School in 1996. He went on to study acting under notable teachers such as Jay Lynch at the Opus Theatre, Selma Glass at the Coconut Creek Recreation Centre, and Allan Press at the Youth Theatre in Boca Raton, Florida.

Career

Eddie began his acting career in 2000, primarily performing in theater productions. His big break came when he landed the role of “Billy” in The Ringer, a comedy that premiered in 2005. After the film’s success, he took a brief hiatus from acting. Eddie returned to the screen in 2010 with a minor role in Jackass 3D, appearing as himself alongside Johnny Knoxville, whom he had met while filming The Ringer.

In 2011, Eddie had a guest role as Bradley in Workaholics on Comedy Central, which he reprised in 2013. He also appeared in National Lampoon’s 301: The Legend of Awesomest Maximus as “Testicles’ Cousin.” Eddie continued to make guest appearances, including on MTV’s Ridiculousness in 2013. In 2014, he played a nursing home orderly in Dumb and Dumber To. As of 2021, Eddie is 43 years old and has not publicly disclosed any upcoming projects.

Controversies

Eddie became part of a controversial discussion in early 2018 when it was announced that he would portray a character with Down syndrome in the premiere of the play Amy and the Orphans. The production, which also starred Mark Blum, Diane Davis, and Debra Monk, ran through April 2018.

Personal Life

Eddie has kept his personal life relatively private. However, it is known that he is in a relationship with Chris Burke, another actor with Down syndrome. The two met on the set and share a deep bond, though they do not have any children.

Net Worth

Eddie’s acting career, which began in 2000, has earned him recognition and success in both film and television. His estimated net worth as of 2021 is approximately $11 million, which he has accumulated through his work as an actor and comedian.

Trivia

• Eddie graduated from Coral Springs High School in 1996.
• He began his acting career in 2000.
• He gained widespread recognition for his role as Billy in The Ringer.
• Eddie was part of the cast in Amy and the Orphans, which premiered in 2018.
• He is in a relationship with Chris Burke, who shares the same condition, Down syndrome.

Eddie Barbanell’s story is one of perseverance and success, proving that talent and determination can break through any barrier.