Parastouee, Parviz (born June 24, 1955, Hamadan)

Parviz Parastouee was born in Kabudrahang, Hamadan Province and grew up in Tehran.

His acting career began at the age of 15 when he joined a theatrical troupe and performed for several years at Youth Palace and the Institute for the Intellectual Development of Children and Young Adults.

Parastouee received his first awards from Youth Palace for his performance in 'Kiosk' and 'The Submitters' plays.

He earned a degree in Dramatic Arts, the equivalent to a bachelor’s degree, from the Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance.

His film debut was in 1983 in 'Land of Lovers' which earned him the Diploma of Honor for Best Actor in a Supporting Role at the Fajr International Film Festival.

Parastouee has since displayed his range of talents by playing the leading role in many movies and series of different genres.

One notable role was as the lead in the comedy 'Leily is with Me' (1995) which brought a new perspective to the genre of movies dealing with the Iran-Iraq imposed war.

He has won numerous awards, including the Crystal Simorgh at the Fajr International Film Festival for Best Actor in a Leading Role for 'The Glass Agency' (1999), 'Willow Tree' (2005), 'In the Name of My Father' (2006), and ‘Bodyguard’ (2015).

The Special Jury Award at the Fajr International Film Festival for 'The Lizard' (2004) and the Diploma of Honor at the Fajr International Film Festival for 'Leily is with Me' (1995) are some of his other notable accolades.

Parastouee's TV works are 'Rana' (1990), 'Imam Ali (PBUH)' (1991), 'The Apartment' (1993), 'The Cuckoo Song' (1996), 'Under the Umbrella of the Sun' (1997), 'The Red Soil' (2000), 'Under the Blade' (2006) for which he received widespread acclaim and 'The Chef' (2010).

He has a long list of movies, including 'Snowman' (1994), 'A Mother's Love' (1997), 'The Wrong Guy' (1998), 'Red Ribbon' (1998), 'Mummy 3' (1999), 'The Duel' (2002), 'The Book of Law' (2008), 'Thirteen 59 [1980]' (2009), 'Today' (2013), and 'Bodyguard' (2015).

Besides being a prolific actor, Parastouee is a singer. He has recorded three albums so far, including the latest one entitled 'Daddy' (2006).