Lou Diamond Phillips is a well-known American actor and director, recognized for his diverse roles in film and television. As of 2024, his net worth is estimated to be around $6 million. Phillips gained fame for his portrayal of Ritchie Valens in the 1987 biographical film “La Bamba,” which marked a significant turning point in his career. Over the years, he has appeared in numerous films, including “Stand and Deliver,” “Young Guns,” “Courage Under Fire,” and “The 33.” On television, he is best known for his roles in the Western series “Longmire” and the procedural drama “Prodigal Son.”
Born as Lou Diamond Upchurch on February 17, 1962, at the Subic Bay Naval Station in the Philippines, Phillips has a rich cultural background. His father, Gerald, was a Marine and of Cherokee and Scots-Irish descent, while his mother, Lucita, was a native of the Philippines. After his father’s death in 1963, Phillips adopted his stepfather’s surname and later moved to Texas, where he attended Flour Bluff High School in Corpus Christi. He pursued higher education at the University of Texas at Arlington, graduating with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Drama.
Phillips made his acting debut in 1984 with minor roles in the television movie “Time Bomb” and the science-fiction film “Interface.” His breakthrough came in 1987 with “La Bamba,” which showcased his talent and led to further opportunities in Hollywood.
Film Breakthroughs
Phillips’ rise to fame continued with his role in the 1988 film “Stand and Deliver,” where he played Angel Guzman, a struggling math student. His performance earned him an Independent Spirit Award for Best Supporting Male and a Golden Globe nomination. The same year, he starred in “Young Guns,” portraying the historical outlaw José Chavez y Chavez. This film solidified his status as a leading actor in Hollywood.
Throughout the 1990s, Phillips continued to build his filmography with notable roles in various genres. He reprised his role in “Young Guns II” in 1990 and appeared in thrillers like “A Show of Force” and “The First Power.” His directorial debut came in 1994 with “Dangerous Touch,” a film he also starred in. Other significant films from this period include “Courage Under Fire,” “The Big Hit,” and “Brokedown Palace.”
Television Career
In addition to his film work, Phillips has had a successful television career. In the 1990s, he appeared in episodes of popular series such as “Tales from the Crypt,” “Spin City,” and “The Outer Limits.” He gained further recognition with a recurring role on the supernatural drama “Wolf Lake” and as secret government agent Mark DeSalvo in the first season of “24.” His versatility allowed him to take on various roles, including a half-brother on the sitcom “George Lopez” and an FBI agent in “Numb3rs.”
Phillips’ most notable television role came in 2012 when he began starring in the Western series “Longmire” as Henry Standing Bear, the best friend of the title character. His performance was well-received, and the show ran for six seasons. More recently, he played NYPD lieutenant Gil Arroyo in the crime drama “Prodigal Son,” which aired from 2019 to 2021.
Personal Life
Lou Diamond Phillips has had a colorful personal life. He was first married to assistant director Julie Cypher in 1987, but the couple divorced in 1990. Cypher later came out as a lesbian and entered a long-term relationship with singer Melissa Etheridge. Phillips was briefly engaged to actress Jennifer Tilly before marrying Kelly Phillips in 1994. They had three daughters together but separated in 2003 and divorced in 2007. In 2007, he married makeup artist Yvonne Boismier, with whom he has a son named Indigo.
Throughout his career, Phillips has faced some legal issues, including a domestic battery charge in 2006 and a DUI arrest in 2017. However, he has remained active in the entertainment industry and continues to work on various projects.
Awards and Achievements
Phillips has received numerous accolades for his work in film and television. He won the Independent Spirit Award for Best Supporting Male for “Stand and Deliver” and was nominated for a Golden Globe for the same role. His Broadway debut in “The King and I” earned him a Tony Award nomination, showcasing his talent beyond film and television. In 2009, he won the reality series “I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here!” and has participated in various charity events and initiatives throughout his career.
Conclusion
Lou Diamond Phillips has established himself as a versatile actor and director with a career spanning several decades. With a net worth of $6 million, he has made significant contributions to the entertainment industry through his memorable performances and directorial efforts. As he continues to take on new roles and projects, Phillips remains a beloved figure in Hollywood.
FAQs
What is Lou Diamond Phillips’ net worth?
As of 2024, Lou Diamond Phillips’ net worth is estimated to be around $6 million.
What was Lou Diamond Phillips’ breakout role?
His breakout role was playing Ritchie Valens in the 1987 film “La Bamba.”
What are some notable films Lou Diamond Phillips has appeared in?
Some of his notable films include “Stand and Deliver,” “Young Guns,” “Courage Under Fire,” and “The 33.”
What television series is Lou Diamond Phillips known for?
He is known for his roles in the series “Longmire” and “Prodigal Son.”
How many children does Lou Diamond Phillips have?
Lou Diamond Phillips has four children from his marriages.