Donald Petrie is an American film director and screenwriter known for his work in the comedy genre. He gained recognition for directing popular films such as Miss Congeniality and Grumpy Old Men. His style often combines humor with relatable characters, making his films appealing to a wide audience. Petrie was born on April 2, 1954, in New York City. He studied at Harvard University, where he developed his passion for filmmaking. Over the years, he has worked on various projects in both film and television, contributing to the entertainment industry with his unique storytelling approach.