Ed Solomon Biography

Ed Solomon began his career in show business as a playwright and a stand-up comedian, and was such a prolific writer that he was able to sell jokes to other comedians, including Garry Shandling, whom he met while studying at UCLA. After graduation, Solomon was hired as a writer on the ABC-TV sitcom Laverne & Shirley. When the show came to an end, his long-time association with Shandling proved to be rewarding, as he was hired as executive story editor in 1986 on the new TV series It’s Garry Sandling’s Show.

Along with Chris Matheson, Solomon co-wrote the screenplay Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure (1989), and when the film hit the big screens in 1989, it was a huge success. Known for having a great sense of humor, Solomon made his film acting debut in the film in the role of "Stupid Waiter." Matheson and Solomon also wrote a sequel, Bill and Ted’s Bogus Journey (1991), and this time Solomon not only appeared in it as "Stupid Séance Member," but co-produced. He single-handedly wrote the script for Leaving Normal (1992), and was the executive producer as well as playing the role of "Jerk in Bar."

He teamed up again with Matheson for the sci-fi comedy Mom and Dad Save the World (1992), and played the role "Destroyer 13." He didn’t take on an acting role in Men In Black(1997), but single-handedly wrote the screenplay. The film was his biggest success to date, taking in over $84 million on its first weekend at the box office.

For What Planet Are You From? (2000), Solomon teamed with three other writers, including his old friend Garry Shandling, who also starred in the movie, but the film was a flop both with critics and with the public, who stayed away in droves. Solomon had much more success with Charlie’s Angels (2001), which took in $40 million on its opening weekend. He made his directing debut with his next film, Levity(2003), starring Morgan Freeman and Billy Bob Thornton.

Solomon is married to Cynthia Cleese, the daughter of actor/comedian John Cleese. They have a son named Evan Daniel.

Filmography:

Levity (2003)