Comedian and performer Mark Gagliardi has made quite a name for himself with his standout roles across film, television, and stage. Over the years, Mark Gagliardi has delivered some truly memorable performances, including appearances in the beloved Thrilling Adventure Hour, as well as in films like Drones and the hilarious 22 Jump Street. Fans of TV comedy might recognize Mark Gagliardi from his guest spots on NBC’s Parks and Recreation, where he brought his signature wit to several episodes. Then, in 2014, Mark Gagliardi landed a recurring role on FOX’s hit show Brooklyn Nine-Nine, further solidifying his presence in the world of comedic entertainment.
Before all the spotlight and laughter, Mark Gagliardi was building the foundation of his career. He graduated from Calvin College back in 1992 with a B.A. in philosophy—a thoughtful background that perhaps influenced his sharp, intelligent humor. During his college years, Mark Gagliardi started exploring his passion for performance by auditioning for theater productions, a move that would eventually set him on the path to success. On a personal note, Mark Gagliardi married Beth Hagenlocker in 2002, and the two have shared their journey together ever since.
He served as the stand-in for Ben—Bradley Cooper’s character—during the reunion performance of Wet Hot American Summer at the San Francisco Comedy Festival back in 2012. You know, it was kind of a big deal because the event brought together a lot of the original cast, and he played a crucial behind-the-scenes role. Being the stand-in for Ben meant he had to match Bradley Cooper’s movements and timing pretty closely, which isn’t easy when you’re prepping for live performances. Honestly, not many people notice the stand-ins, but they’re essential for smooth rehearsals. So yeah, his work as the stand-in for Ben really contributed to how well the whole thing came together.