Actor. Born on December 28, 1954, in Mt. Vernon, New York, educated at Fordham University, American Conservatory Theater, San Francisco. Commanding, fine-featured screen lead. Originally interested in becoming a doctor or journalist, he decided on acting and spent several years on the stage, appearing in both Shakespearean and modern theater productions. He debuted in film in 1981; his strong screen presence was established shortly thereafter in A Soldier's Story. This led to a starring role as South African activist Steven Biko in Cry Freedom and an Academy Award for his fiery supporting performance in Glory. By the early 90's he had become a critically acclaimed screen actor and major box-office draw. Praised for his multilayered incarnation of Malcolm X in the film of that name. His production company is Mundy Lane Entertainment. Regular on the TV drama series "St Elsewhere."
