Biography

Aaron Merke is an award-winning Canadian actor, comedian, and creator known for his dynamic range, innovative character work, and boundary-pushing humor. Trained in long-form improv under the legendary Del Close at IO Chicago, Aaron's early career took off at Second City Toronto and with MuchMusic's top-rated "Video on Trial," quickly establishing him as a comedic force. He later created and starred in his own hit series "LOL" on MuchMusic.

Aaron's recent screen credits include a standout role as Francis Zelk in the anticipated series Safehaven (2025), a fun-to-watch, action-packed shoot-'em-up where a bank robbery goes spectacularly wrong. He also appears as Terry, the beleaguered bank manager, in Ben Wheatley's Normal (2025), starring Bob Odenkirk and Lena Headey-a neo-noir crime thriller centered on a small-town sheriff unraveling dark mysteries after a botched bank heist. Aaron's upcoming work includes the role of Lewis Wilkes in Psycho Killer (2026, dir. Gavin Polone), a stylish slasher thriller following a police officer on the trail of a masked murderer.

His film and television performances have earned him an ACTRA Award, and his versatility extends to genre work, from high-stakes crime and horror to sophisticated comedy and FX-driven projects. Inspired by the likes of Peter Sellers and Eddie Murphy, Aaron is celebrated for his transformative character acting and inventive monster makeup FX. He frequently collaborates with his wife, Lauren Cochrane (as the comedy duo BUCKO), and is recognized for his mentorship in the comedy and performance community.

A sought-after teacher and speaker, Aaron empowers aspiring artists with practical tools for creative success. Off-screen, he produces and is co-founder of the Royal Awesome Production company.

Notable credits include:

. Safehaven (2025, TV Series) as Francis Zelk . Normal (2025, Feature Film) as Terry, Bank Manager (dir. Ben Wheatley; starring Bob Odenkirk, Lena Headey) . Psycho Killer (2026, Feature Film) as Lewis Wilkes (dir. Gavin Polone) . Video on Trial (MuchMusic), LOL (MuchMusic), BUCKO (Comedy Duo/Series), Second City Toronto

Known for his sophisticated, layered humor and creative risk-taking, Aaron Merke continues to redefine what it means to be a modern comedic performer-always with an eye for the unexpected and a mission to make audiences think, laugh, and feel
- IMDb mini biography by: Aaron Merke

Merke started his career training under the famed improv director and creator Del Close. Aaron was one of the few that were part of his last class before he passed March 4 1999.

Aaron Merke performed regularly with with Lauren Cochrane as comedy duo "Bucko".

Aaron Merke has been cast and lead make-up fx artist at the same time on multiple projects. Aaron owns his own make-up fx company.