Lou Diamond Phillips, born on February 17, 1962, at the Subic Bay Naval Station in the Philippines, is a distinguished American actor and director. He gained prominence for his portrayal of Ritchie Valens in the 1987 biographical drama “La Bamba” and has since built a diverse and impactful career in the entertainment industry.
Early Life and Family
Phillips was born to Lucita Umayam Aranas, of Filipino descent, and Gerald Amon Upchurch, an American of Scots-Irish and Cherokee ancestry. His father, a Marine KC-130 crew chief, passed away when Phillips was young, leading his mother to remarry and the family to adopt the surname Phillips. Named after Marine Corps legend Lou Diamond, Phillips moved to the United States during his infancy and was raised in Texas. He graduated from Flour Bluff High School in Corpus Christi in 1980 and later earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Drama from the University of Texas at Arlington.
Career Highlights
1980s Breakthrough
Phillips’s acting career commenced with roles in low-budget films, but his breakthrough arrived with “La Bamba” (1987), where he portrayed rock ‘n’ roll star Ritchie Valens. This performance garnered critical acclaim and opened doors to significant opportunities. In 1988, he starred in “Stand and Deliver” alongside Edward James Olmos, earning a Golden Globe nomination and winning the Independent Spirit Award for Best Supporting Male. The same year, he featured in the Western film “Young Guns” as Jose Chavez y Chavez, a role he reprised in the 1990 sequel.
1990s and Broadway Debut
The 1990s saw Phillips expanding his repertoire with diverse roles in films such as “Courage Under Fire” (1996) and “The Big Hit” (1998). He made his Broadway debut in 1996, portraying King Mongkut in the revival of “The King and I,” which earned him a Tony Award nomination and showcased his versatility as a performer.
2000s Television and Continued Success
Phillips transitioned seamlessly between film and television, with notable appearances in series like “24” and “Numb3rs.” He also participated in reality television, winning the second season of “I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here!” in 2009. His role as Colonel Telford in “Stargate Universe” (2009–2011) further solidified his presence on the small screen.
2010s and Beyond
From 2012 to 2017, Phillips starred as Henry Standing Bear in the television series “Longmire,” earning praise for his portrayal of a complex Native American character. He continued to diversify his roles, appearing in films like “The 33” (2015) and participating in projects such as the music video for Imagine Dragons’ “Radioactive.” In 2023, he competed in the ninth season of “The Masked Singer” as “Mantis,” delighting audiences with his performances.
Personal Life
Phillips’s personal life has seen several relationships. He married Julie Cypher in 1987; they divorced in 1990. He later married makeup artist Kelly Preston in 1994, with whom he has three daughters; the couple separated in 2003 and finalized their divorce in 2007. In 2007, he married makeup artist Yvonne Boismier, and they have a daughter together.
Activism and Advocacy
Beyond his artistic endeavors, Phillips is known for his activism. He serves on the advisory council of The Coalition of Asian Pacifics in Entertainment, advocating for diversity in media. He has also been involved in Native American causes, organizing benefit concerts and participating in traditional ceremonies. Additionally, Phillips is a member of Artists Against Racism and has supported LGBTQ equality campaigns.
Recent News and Projects
As of 2024, Phillips continues to engage in various projects. He starred opposite Malcolm McDowell in the comedy thriller film “Et Tu,” which garnered attention at film festivals. His enduring presence in the entertainment industry is marked by a commitment to diverse and challenging roles, reflecting his dedication to his craft.
Conclusion
Lou Diamond Phillips’s career spans over three decades, characterized by a wide range of performances in film, television, and theater. His contributions to the arts, coupled with his advocacy for diversity and inclusion, underscore his significance as a multifaceted artist and activist. As he continues to evolve in his career, Phillips remains a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, inspiring audiences worldwide.
