He is the son of professional hockey player Earl "Ching" Johnson (a member of the 1954 Stanley Cup-winning Detroit Redwings team). Earl went by Johnson when he was playing hockey, but he later changed the family name to Johansson to reflect his Swedish heritage.

Played with the Canadian National Basketball team touring for two years. 1986 in Korea and China and in 1987 to Israel and Greece.

Paul was born in the US, but raised in Canada. He has citizenship in both countries.

Became good friends with fellow Canadian Jason Priestley when both were scouted in Vancouver and brought to Los Angeles to pursue their careers in showbiz. They went on to work together in Beverly Hills 90210, Conversations in Limbo and Darkness Falling (Dark Side).

Speaks French.

Paul speaks French.