Andrew Kavovit is an American actor best known for his role as Paul Ryan on the long-running soap opera As the World Turns, for which he won a Daytime Emmy Award. Known for his youthful charm and compelling performances, Kavovit made a lasting impression on daytime and primetime audiences throughout the late 1980s and 1990s.
This comprehensive article covers all of Andrew Kavovit’s movies and television appearances, along with in-depth insights into his acting career, awards, and legacy.
Early Life and Acting Beginnings
From Bronxville to the Spotlight
Andrew Michael Kavovit was born on July 19, 1971, in Bronxville, New York. He began acting at a young age, and by his teenage years, he was cast in one of America’s most beloved daytime dramas. His breakthrough in As the World Turns set the tone for a dynamic career in both television and film.
Breakout Role As the World Turns (1986–1991)
Role Paul Ryan
- Network: CBS
- Genre: Soap Opera
- Seasons: 1986 to 1991
- Overview: Kavovit portrayed Paul Ryan, the son of James Stenbeck and Barbara Ryan. His portrayal of the emotionally complex and often troubled Paul captivated fans of the soap opera and earned him critical acclaim.
Daytime Emmy Award Win
- Award: Daytime Emmy for Outstanding Younger Actor in a Drama Series (1990)
- Significance: This award validated his acting talent and established him as a leading performer in daytime television.
Complete List of Andrew Kavovit’s TV Shows
The Magnificent Seven (1998–2000)
- Role: Josiah “JD” Dunne
- Network: CBS
- Episodes: Appeared in 22 episodes
- Overview: Based on the 1960 film of the same name, this Western TV series followed seven men who protect a town from danger. Kavovit played JD Dunne, the youngest and most impulsive of the group, bringing energy and vulnerability to the show.
- Impact: This was his most prominent primetime role, earning him a new fanbase and showcasing his range beyond soap operas.
Murder, She Wrote (1993)
- Episode: “Love’s Deadly Desire”
- Role: Nick Brody
- Network: CBS
- Synopsis: Kavovit played a young suspect in a murder investigation led by Jessica Fletcher (Angela Lansbury).
- Significance: His guest spot in this legendary mystery series helped bridge his transition to primetime drama.
Diagnosis Murder (1994)
- Episode: “Sister Michael Wants You”
- Role: Tom Davis
- Overview: Kavovit’s role as a troubled youth offered him the chance to delve into darker, more psychologically intense material.
Touched by an Angel (1997)
- Episode: “Into the Light”
- Role: Mark
- Network: CBS
- Overview: In this heartfelt episode, Kavovit portrayed a young man facing a life-altering challenge, reflecting the show’s spiritual and moral themes.
Picket Fences (1993)
- Episode: “Turpitude”
- Role: Steven Ferris
- Genre: Legal/Drama
- Overview: This Emmy-winning series often tackled controversial topics. Kavovit’s performance as a young man involved in a legal dilemma was noted for its emotional weight.
Silk Stalkings (1994)
- Episode: “Killer Cop”
- Role: Billy
- Network: USA Network
- Genre: Crime Drama
- Plot Summary: Kavovit appeared in a crime thriller storyline that showcased his dramatic range.
The Commish (1994)
- Episode: “The Lady Vanishes”
- Role: Billy Kramer
- Overview: In this procedural police drama, Kavovit played a young man entangled in a complex investigation.
CSI Crime Scene Investigation (2000s, Uncredited/Guest Appearance)
- Role: Minor or background role
- Significance: While not a major credit, his appearance on this mega-hit forensic drama is part of his full TV resume.
Complete List of Andrew Kavovit’s Movies
The Secrets of Lake Success (1993)
- Role: Lead Role – Teen Romantic Drama
- Type: Made-for-TV Movie
- Overview: Kavovit played a key role in this romantic drama set in an affluent lakeside community with hidden secrets. It aired on network television and was targeted at young adult audiences.
The Big Day (1999)
- Role: Supporting Role
- Genre: Comedy/Drama
- Plot: A romantic comedy centered around a chaotic wedding day. Kavovit played one of the groomsmen with a comedic arc.
Children of the Night (1991)
- Role: Mark Gardner
- Genre: Horror
- Director: Tony Randel
- Synopsis: Kavovit starred as a high school student who, along with his friend, fights vampires in a cursed town.
- Highlights: A cult horror classic of the early ’90s, this movie allowed Kavovit to explore the horror genre with a leading role.
Montana Crossroads (1994)
- Role: Sam
- Format: TV Movie
- Overview: A family drama centered around life in rural America. Kavovit played a central character dealing with coming-of-age struggles.
Andrew Kavovit’s Other Notable Appearances
Guest Panels and Talk Shows
- The Rosie O’Donnell Show
- Entertainment Tonight
- Daytime Emmy Awards Appearances
Kavovit appeared regularly on daytime and entertainment talk shows throughout the ’90s, often to promote his TV projects or celebrate award season.
Career Highlights and Recognition
Daytime Emmy Award (1990)
- Category: Outstanding Younger Actor in a Drama Series
- Project: As the World Turns
- Impact: Cemented his place in soap opera history.
Cult Fandom from The Magnificent Seven
Despite its short run, The Magnificent Seven gained a dedicated cult following, with Kavovit’s JD Dunne often cited as a fan favorite.
Life After Acting
After the early 2000s, Andrew Kavovit gradually stepped away from the spotlight. While he hasn’t appeared in major productions in recent years, he remains a beloved figure for fans of classic soap operas and Western dramas.
Involvement in Entrepreneurship and Investment
In 2015, Andrew Kavovit appeared on Shark Tank — not as a contestant, but as a supportive father. His daughter, Kiowa Kavovit, pitched her invention, Boo Boo Goo, a paint-on bandage for kids. Kavovit’s appearance on the episode introduced him to a new generation of viewers.
Final Thoughts The Versatile Career of Andrew Kavovit
Andrew Kavovit’s acting journey—from winning a Daytime Emmy for his role on As the World Turns to thrilling audiences in The Magnificent Seven and cult horror films like Children of the Night—speaks to his versatility and commitment to his craft. Though he has since stepped back from acting, his contributions to television and film continue to resonate with fans.
His ability to navigate complex characters, coupled with his early career achievements, makes Andrew Kavovit a standout figure in 1990s television history. Whether in soap operas, western dramas, or made-for-TV thrillers, his performances remain both memorable and impactful.