Gil Bellows is a Canadian actor, producer, screenwriter, and director. Upon graduating from the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, he began acting in films and television. Bellows also earned critical acclaim for his stage performances in The Snake and the Vein (1990-1992) and Flaubert's Latest (1992). For his first starring role in Love and a .45 (1994), his acting received positive reviews. Bellows gained wide attention for his performance as Tommy a pivotal role in The Shawshank Redemption (1994). The film was nominated for seven Academy Awards including “Best Picture” and is considered by many to be one of the greatest films ever made.