'When one life changes,
many lives are changed.' G.W.
Bailey
G.W. Bailey
is a stage, film and television actor, internationally known for his
many roles, including Capt. Harris in the Police Academy
film series, Sgt. Rizzo from the MASH television series and
his current role as Lt. Provenza on the TNT television hit series, The
Closer. He is also the Executive Director of the non-profit Sunshine Kids Foundation, which
provides trips and activities for hundreds of young cancer patients
annually. His work over the years with the Foundation to create as many
activities as possible for as many Kids as possible was inspired by his
goddaughter, Brandy, and has always been dedicated to the memory of
this remarkable young woman. He is a proud father and grandfather and
currently resides in Los Angeles.
the interview
We shot G.W.'s interview in one
of the production offices of The Closer (the TNT television
series that G.W. is a series regular on), in Los Angeles. Ever since I
met him when we worked together, I've always been amazed by the
schedule he keeps and all he managed to do. He was so passionate about
his work as an actor as well as his work with Sunshine Kids. I always
wondered if that is what fueled his boundless energy or if it was
something else. When this project started taking off, I called him
right away. Not only is G.W. one of the most gifted story-tellers ever,
but he has great stories to tell. As always, Mr. Bailey did not
disappoint. Even though he had been sick and had to hit an event for
the Sunshine Kids that afternoon, he squeezed in sharing his epiphany.
He said the story always moves him to tears and laughter whenever he
tells it, and that was my experience as well. He also had other
fantastic stories about the Sunshine Kids and Hollywood players and
celebrities who have helped that I didn't have room to include here -
yet.