Kurt Ela '96

Inducted Fall 2024

Kurt Ela ’96 was a leader in the classroom, on the stage, and the athletic fields during his time at Fryeburg Academy. His enthusiasm and energy were evident in every aspect of his school life, setting him apart as a dedicated and driven individual. Following his time at Fryeburg, Kurt pursued his passions and built a successful career in the acting and film industry.

As a student, Kurt was a National Honor Society, FA Jazz, and Rock Band member. He served as Vice President of his class for three years and then as Senior Class President. In athletics, Kurt was a four-year member of the soccer team, captaining the team his senior year, and a four-year member of the Nordic ski team, where he was also captain his senior year. He also played varsity baseball for two years. In addition to all of this, Kurt was the lead in multiple school musicals and theater productions. At graduation, he received the Soccer, Drama, and Bill Oliver awards and was honored with the Gibson Medal for his leadership and achievements.

Kurt earned his B.A. degree from the University of Southern Maine, majoring in theater, and then headed west, where he is now a dynamic actor and creative force in the entertainment industry. Best known as a series regular on Paramount’s Side Hustle, Kurt has also captivated audiences with recurring roles in Strange Angel, Mighty Med, and Trial and Error. A highlight of his career was collaborating with the iconic Kermit the Frog on The Muppets TV show, a moment that he will never forget. 

In addition to his acting achievements, Kurt is an innovative filmmaker. In 2019, he and Kipp Tribble wrote, produced, and starred in CHAR MAN, entirely shot on iPads and phones, which found distribution with Indie Rights. This project reflects his creative vision and adaptability in the evolving landscape of filmmaking.

Kurt is also active in commercials, with multiple successful campaigns for brands like Quicklane, Ameristar, and Dairy Queen. He is represented by Brandy Gold at Talentworks and Laina Cohn at CT Media, and he continues to seek new opportunities that challenge him as an artist.

Kurt has been married to Gwen Ela for over 12 years now. They have one son, Kolten, whom Kurt coaches in soccer and baseball. When he isn't forcing his son to hike up a mountain, he has realized how much he loves watching birds and looking at plants. But he thinks that could be a sign that he is over the age of 35.