When you think of Dean Norris, you might picture the tough-as-nails DEA agent Hank Schrader from the hit series Breaking Bad. But behind the scenes, this Hollywood star and his wife Bridget Norris are making waves in the business world. From the glitz of Tinseltown to the charm of Temecula, California, the Norris family has embarked on a journey that’s as diverse as it is inspiring.
The Norris Performing Arts Center: A Triple Threat in the Making
In 2018, the Norris family decided to blend their love for the arts with their entrepreneurial spirit. The result? The Norris Performing Arts Center, a hub of creativity nestled in Murrieta, California.
This isn’t your run-of-the-mill studio; it’s a triple threat, offering a smorgasbord of dance classes, musical theater, and acting classes for all ages and skill levels. Bridget Norris, a former entertainment attorney, takes the reins of daily management.
Her experience in the industry proves invaluable as she coordinates schedules, manages staff, and ensures the smooth running of the center. “Getting artists to be in place at a certain time, I know how to do that,” she shared with The Press-Enterprise in January 2018.
While Dean might not be a daily fixture at the center, his contributions are no less significant. The Breaking Bad actor brings his wealth of experience to the table, conducting master classes in acting. Imagine learning the craft from Hank Schrader himself!
The dynamic duo doesn’t stop there. They’ve partnered with Sean Kiralla, their creative director and long-time family friend. Kiralla’s history with the Norris family runs deep, having taught dance to their children in the past.
This trifecta of talent ensures that students at the Norris Performing Arts Center receive top-notch instruction across all disciplines.
In the age of social media, the Norrises aren’t slouching. They’ve embraced various platforms to promote their center, including Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. It’s a testament to their adaptability and understanding of modern marketing strategies.
Read This Blog:
Is O.J. Murder Witness Kato Kaelin Married? Meet His New Wife
From Stage to Table: The Norris Family’s Restaurant Venture
As if running a performing arts studio wasn’t enough, Dean and Bridget Norris decided to add another flavor to their business portfolio. In late 2022, they acquired The Swing Inn Cafe, a beloved fixture in Old Town Temecula since 1927. This historic cafe in Temecula set them back a cool $6 million, but the investment seems to be paying off.
Under the Norris family’s stewardship, The Swing Inn Cafe has undergone a subtle facelift. The staff now sports newly branded attire, adding a fresh touch to the establishment. However, loyal patrons need not worry the menu remains untouched, preserving the flavors that have made the cafe a local favorite for nearly a century.
Early birds and brunch enthusiasts rejoice! The cafe opens its doors at 6 a.m. on weekdays, closing at 3 p.m. Weekend warriors get an extra hour of indulgence, with the cafe staying open until 4 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.
Dean and Bridget: A Hollywood Love Story
Behind every successful man is a strong woman, and in Dean’s case, it’s his wife of over two decades, Anne Bridget Norris. The couple tied the knot in 2001 and have been going strong ever since.
Their relationship isn’t just about business; it’s filled with moments of joy and shared experiences. From attending the Kentucky Derby in 2015 to rocking out at concerts, Dean and Bridget know how to keep the spark alive.
The Breaking Bad actor often takes to social media to share these precious moments, like when he posted a sweet photo from a concert in October 2021, captioning it “My concert date.”
But it’s not all glitz and glamour. The Norris family also enjoys simple pleasures, like shopping trips with their children or cheering for the LA Dodgers. In July 2021, Dean shared a family moment on Twitter, celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Dodgers’ 1981 championship.
The Next Generation: Norris Children in the Spotlight
Dean and Bridget are proud parents to five children – three boys and two girls. While they’ve mostly kept their family life private, two of their offspring are following in their father’s footsteps.
Dean Norris Jr., at 15, is already making waves in the entertainment industry. His Instagram bio proudly lists his talents: “Actor, singer, dancer, tap dancer.” The young Norris is deeply involved with the family’s Performing Arts Center and is represented by talent manager Ally Taylor.
Dean Jr.’s professional journey began in June 2019 when he made his stage debut in “Newsies” at the Pechanga Resort Casino. Since then, he’s appeared in projects like “Divinity” (2023) and “The Delicate Cycle” (2023).
One of the Norris daughters is also dipping her toes into the acting pool. In June 2017, she attended her first film premiere at the LA Film Festival, marking the beginning of what could be a promising career.
Balancing Act: Fame, Family, and Business
The Norris family’s journey from Hollywood to entrepreneurship is a testament to their versatility and ambition. Dean Norris has seamlessly transitioned from playing tough guys on screen to being a savvy businessman and dedicated family man off-screen.
Their ventures the Norris Performing Arts Center and The Swing Inn Cafe not only showcase their business acumen but also their commitment to their community in Temecula, California. These establishments provide employment opportunities, nurture local talent, and preserve a piece of the town’s history.
As Dean Norris continues to grace our screens with his powerful performances, and Bridget Norris manages their growing business empire, one thing is clear: this power couple is redefining what it means to be successful in both entertainment and entrepreneurship.
Whether you’re a fan of Dean’s acting, a budding performer looking for top-notch training, or simply craving a delicious meal in a historic setting, the Norris family has something to offer. Their story serves as an inspiration to those looking to diversify their talents and invest in their communities.
So, the next time you watch Dean Norris nail a tough-guy role on screen, remember behind that gruff exterior is a family man with a heart of gold and a head for business. Now that’s what we call a triple threat.
