Sam Trammell

Best known for his role as Sam Merlotte on HBO’s cult drama True Blood, actor Sam Trammell was not always interested in acting.

Born May 15, 1971, to an artist mother and surgeon father, Trammell grew up in Charleston, West Virginia. He attended Brown University, where he pursued a career as an astrophysicist. During his senior year he became interested in acting, eventually finding his way to the New York stage. He made his off-Broadway debut in Dealer’s Choice, played a gay man in My Night With Reg, and was nominated for a Tony for his role in Ah, Wilderness! in 1998.

While appearing on stage, Trammell took on the occasional TV and film role. He starred in the short-lived comedy series Going to California (2001-2002). After the cancellation, he landed minor roles in House M.D., Bones, CSI: New York and Dexter.

In 2008, Trammell’s life changed when he won the role of Sam Merlotte on True Blood. He was nominated in 2009 for a Screen Actors Guild Award for his portrayal of the Southern shape-shifter.

Trammell has been with girlfriend Michelle Yager since 2003. In August 2011, they welcomed twin boys.