Filmography

Simon Birch - ( Simon Birch / 1998 / Released / )

TV Credits

Full Biography (Back to top)

A hospital worker in the Chicago area had approached the parents of young Ian Michael Smith about his auditioning for the leading role in a soon-to-filmed motion picture. Like the film's hero, Smith is afflicted with Morquio Syndrome, a rare enzyme disorder that affects the circulatory, muscular and skeletal systems. The Smiths were concerned about exploitation but after reading the novel on which the film was based agreed to allow their son to audition. Although he eventually lost on that role (the film was "The Mighty" and Kieran Culkin landed the part), Smith was recommended for another role in a film based on a novel. This time, his audition tape won over the director and the novice was hired to essay the title role of "Simon Birch" (1998), suggested by John Irving's "A Prayer for Owen Meany". Because of his illness, Smith is just over three feet tall, having undergone several operations including a spinal fusion and two bilateral osteotomies, he was the perfect choice to play Simon, touted as having been so small when he was born his mother didn't even notice the delivery. The novice actor proved a natural before the cameras and impressing some reviewers who found the film itself treacly and sentimental.

Profession(s):
Actor

Sometimes Credited As:

Family
brother:Brian Smith (younger)
father:Steve Smith (runs consulting firm in the Chicago area)
mother:Gayle Smith

Awards (Back to top)

Broadcast Film Critics Association Award Best Child Performer "Simon Birch" 1998

Milestones (Back to top)

1998 Film acting debut in title role of "Simon Birch"

Raised in Elmhurst, Illinois

Auditioned for the lead role in "The Mighty"; part went to Kieran Culkin

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