Steven Seagal is an American actor, martial artist, and musician known for his roles in action films. Born on April 10, 1952, in Lansing, Michigan, Seagal developed an early interest in martial arts and moved to Japan in his teens, where he became an expert in Aikido, eventually earning a 7th-dan black belt. He is also trained in other martial arts disciplines, including karate, judo, and kendo.
Seagal made his film debut in 1988 with "Above the Law," where he not only showcased his martial arts skills but also co-wrote the screenplay. This film set the tone for his subsequent career, featuring him as a tough, no-nonsense hero. Throughout the late 1980s and 1990s, Seagal starred in a series of successful action films such as "Hard to Kill" (1990), "Marked for Death" (1990), "Out for Justice" (1991), and "Under Siege" (1992), the latter being one of his most commercially successful films.
Beyond his acting career, Seagal is a musician, playing the guitar and releasing two albums: "Songs from the Crystal Cave" (2005) and "Mojo Priest" (2006). His music is a blend of blues, rock, and country.
Seagal's personal life and off-screen persona have been subjects of media interest. He is known for his law enforcement work, having served as a reserve deputy sheriff in Louisiana and Arizona. Seagal has also been involved in various humanitarian efforts and environmental causes, advocating for animal rights and energy conservation.
Despite his success, Seagal's career has also been marked by controversy, including allegations of sexual misconduct and legal disputes. Nonetheless, he remains a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, with a distinctive style and an enduring fan base.