Paul Soles

Paul Robert Soles (August 11, 1930 – May 26, 2021) was a celebrated Canadian actor and television personality, renowned for his distinctive voice and versatile performances. He gained widespread acclaim as the original voice of Hermey, the misfit elf, in the beloved 1964 Rankin/Bass classic, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.

Soles' voice acting talents extended to the realm of superheroes; he portrayed Bruce Banner in the 1966 animated series, The Incredible Hulk, and lent his voice to Spider-Man in the iconic late 1960s animated show. His presence on Canadian television was notable, as he appeared as "The Lawbreaker" on the CBC quiz show This Is the Law during the 1970s and took on the role of Costas Stavros in the soap opera Riverdale.

In a poignant moment of his career, Soles stepped into the role of Shylock in the Stratford Festival's production of The Merchant of Venice in 2001, following the passing of Al Waxman, showcasing his adaptability and dedication to the craft. Additionally, he portrayed Stanley, the pizza shop owner, in The Incredible Hulk and Danny, a janitor at the Montréal Customs House, in the 2001 crime thriller The Score. Throughout his career, Soles left an indelible mark on Canadian entertainment, celebrated for both his voice work and live performances.