Gregory Jbara ( /dʒəˈbɑrə/; born September 28, 1961) is an American film, television and stage actor. Jbara was born in Nankin Township (now Westland), Michigan, the son of an advertising office manager and an insurance claims adjuster. He is of Lebanese and Irish descent. After graduating from Wayne Memorial High School in Wayne, Michigan, Jbara attended the University of Michigan from 1979 to 1981. He majored in Communication Studies and took classes in Theatre and Musical Theatre. He left Michigan to attend the Juilliard School's drama division (1982–1986, Group 15) where he received his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. Both of Jbara's brothers also have careers in the entertainment industry. Mike is President and CEO, WEA Corp. while Dan has made his career primarily as a reality show producer. Jbara also has a sister, Judy, who works in insurance and investment planning as well as being co-chair, Leadership Council, Out & Equal Workplace Advocates - Southern California, a non-profit. Jbara originated the role of "Jackie Elliot" (known as "Dad") in the Broadway production of Billy Elliot the Musical, which opened on November 13, 2008.