Paul Rudd, born Paul Stephen Rudd on April 6, 1969, in Passaic, New Jersey, is the son of English Jewish parents, Michael and Gloria Rudd. His family’s original surname, Rudnitzky, was changed to Rudd by his grandfather, who sought to escape antisemitism in London.  Raised in a Reform Jewish household, Rudd had his bar mitzvah and attended synagogue during his youth.  Despite not being overtly religious, he acknowledges the deep-rooted influence of his Jewish heritage, stating, “If you’re Jewish, it’s just in the marrow of your bones.”  Throughout his career, Rudd has portrayed Jewish characters, notably Moe Berg in “The Catcher Was a Spy,” a film about a Jewish baseball player turned World War II spy.  In interviews, he has discussed the impact of his Jewish upbringing on his life and work, reflecting on values imparted by his father, such as treating others as one would like to be treated and contributing positively to the world.  Rudd’s connection to Judaism is also evident ...