Lou Diamond Phillips

Lou Diamond Phillips, a multifaceted figure in the entertainment world, has made significant contributions as an actor, director, and writer. Phillips gained initial recognition for his role as Ritchie Valens in the film La Bamba and his performance in Stand and Deliver garnered him an Independent Spirit Award. His acting prowess spans various platforms, from film, as seen in Young Guns and Courage Under Fire, to television, where he played notable characters in series like "Longmire" and "Prodigal Son."

Phillips' versatility was further showcased when he made his Broadway debut in the 1996 revival of "The King and I," earning him a Tony Award nomination. His expansive filmography also includes his appearance in Imagine Dragons' music video and his role in the comedy short film "Lucy in the Sky with Diamond." Besides his acting career, Phillips demonstrated his writing skills by co-writing the screenplay for "Trespasses," HBO's "Dangerous Touch," and the Miramax feature Ambition.

Aside from his successful career in the entertainment industry, Phillips has been an active advocate for social issues. He won the Oxfam America award for his dedication to ending world hunger and has served as a national spokesperson for the Veterans of Foreign Wars organization. His interest extends to poker, where he has participated and cashed in several tournaments.