Getting to Know...Shawn Ashmore

It's not every day that a Canadian actor goes from small bits of work to a gigantic acting gig within a matter of days, but that's what happened to Shawn Ashmore. One minute he's playing Terry Fox in a made-for-TV movie, and then the next he's cast as Iceman in the 'X-Men' trilogy, acting with juggernauts Patrick Stewart, Halle Berry, and Hugh Jackman. While Ashmore is content to star in a variety of projects - whether they're big-budget or low-budget - he's always proud of his Canadian roots, and finds a distinct pleasure in working at home.It's not every day that a Canadian actor goes from small bits of work to a gigantic acting gig within a matter of days, but that's what happened to Shawn Ashmore. One minute he's playing Terry Fox in a made-for-TV movie, and then the next he's cast as Iceman in the 'X-Men' trilogy, acting with juggernauts Patrick Stewart, Halle Berry, and Hugh Jackman. While Ashmore is content to star in a variety of projects - whether they're big-budget or low-budget - he's always proud of his Canadian roots, and finds a distinct pleasure in working at home.

Birthdate: October 7, 1979
Hometown: Richmond, British Columbia
Claim to Fame: Ashmore definitely hit it big in the 'X-Men' movies. While Iceman didn't have the most screen time, we still got to know Ashmore as Anna Paquin's (Rogue) love interest. Shortly after the 'X-Men' trilogy, Ashmore starred in 2008 horror hit 'The Ruins'.
Trivia: - Has an identical twin brother, Aaron, who is one minute older than Shawn
- He loves to snowboard, and is completely at home on the ski slopes
- Is fluent in French
- Used to date Michelle Trachtenberg
Why You Should Care: Ashmore's latest role is as a doctor on HBO medical series 'Bloodletting and Miraculous Cures'. Harrowing and incredibly emotional, the series follows a trio of young doctors as they navigate med school and their new jobs at a Toronto hospital. Ashmore's acting chops are clearly visible here. Also, look for him to star in the Sundance Film Festival flick 'Frozen' with fellow Canuck Kevin Zegers.
Canuck-o-Meter (1: American, 10: Maple Leaf): 9

Want more Ashmore? Here's our interview with him for 'Bloodletting and Miraculous Cures'.