L.A. actor, South grad returns for reunion
by ELIZABETH TAUFA Reporter

Abbott

Although he was 10 years behind the splitting of the schools, actor Steve Abbott will be attending his 20th Williamsville South High School reunion this year.

Abbott has had a successful career in the film and television industry and continues to live and work in Los Angeles.

"I was a jock in high school and college and didn't start acting until after college," Abbott said. He was captain of both the track and field and basketball teams.

"But I'm so, so happy that I grew up in Williamsville," he continued. "It kept me grounded and continues to keep me grounded."

Though Williamsville East was well-established by the time Abbott graduated, he noted that he is interested to see the joint reunions and interactions of the three classes.

Abbott has been seen in various television shows, including "Crossing Jordan," "Alias," "L.A. Heat," "Murder One" and "Diagnosis Murder."

His movies include "Gacy," "Live Free or Die" and "Everybody Sins."

"Right now, I am producing and acting in a series of films," Abbott said, noting that he's not yet ready to release the name of the project as it just started shooting. "I'm keeping it close to the vest until we're done shooting."

However, Abbott continues to audition for television, film and commercial work.

He will be featured as "The Traveller" in a Long John Silver commercial that will be running nationwide starting in the fall.

"It's basically financing the films I'm shooting," Abbott said.

As far as returning home for his reunion, Abbott is looking forward to reuniting with old friends.

"I get back twice a year - summer and Christmas - and meet up with my friends who still live in the Amherst area," he said. "We still hit Sorrentino's (Spaghetti House) every visit."

Because of the nature of his career, Los Angeles is the best location for Abbott, even though he considered owning property in Western New York.

"Two years ago I had the money from commercial residuals and looked into buying a house there," he said. "It would be nice to have, and it's so much more affordable than L.A."