Paul was raised in the Marlboro, New Jersey. His parents are Polish immigrants and many of his close relatives live in Poland. Until the age of 16, he spent 4 months of every year in Poland. He has 3 sisters, two younger and one older. His eldest sister is an attorney.
During his high school years, Paul attended Christian Brothers Academy, Marlboro High School, and Lake Prep. He was expelled from the first school for getting into fights.
Paul was actively involved in New York City theater studies during his high school years. Whilst his junior year he landed the role of Max in Haine et passion (1952). Due to his acting schedule, he transferred to several schools. He ultimately graduated in 2000 and went on to Rutgers University but, because he was being offered roles, decided to quit after one semester.
In 2009 he was cast in Vampire Diaries (2009). He auditioned for both the roles of Damon, the bad vampire brother, and Stefan, the good vampire brother. It was ultimately decided he would work better as Stefan.
He resides in Los Angeles, New York City, and Atlanta, where he continues filming as well as directing 'The Vampire Diaries'.
