Quick Wiki
- Full Name Louis Diamond Upchurch
- Birth Date Feb 17, 1962
- Age 63 Years, 2 Months
- Birthplace U.S. Naval Base Subic Bay, Zambales, Philippines
- Occupation Actor, director, writer
- Parents Lucita Aranas and Gerald Upchurch
- Mother Lucita Aranas
- Father Gerald Upchurch
Lou Diamond Phillips | Biography
Lou Diamond Phillips, born on February 17, 1962, is a prominent actor known for his roles in La Bamba and Young Guns. He has enjoyed a diverse career across film, television, and theater.
Who is Lou Diamond Phillips?
Lou Diamond Phillips is a multifaceted actor and filmmaker best known for his roles in iconic films of the late 1980s, including "La Bamba", where he portrayed the legendary rock and roll musician Ritchie Valens, and "Stand and Deliver", in which he played a troubled student inspired by a dedicated teacher. Born on February 17, 1962, in Subic Bay, Philippines, to a Filipino mother and an American naval officer father, he adopted his stepfather's surname, Phillips, after his mother's remarriage. His diverse ethnicity—Hispanic, Scottish-Irish, Asian, and Cherokee—has contributed to his versatility on screen and his ability to transcend typical typecasting.
After studying drama at the University of Texas at Arlington, Phillips launched his career in theater before making a significant impact in Hollywood. Following "La Bamba", he starred in "Young Guns" and later found success in "Courage Under Fire". His Broadway debut as the King in "The King and I" earned him a Tony nomination, showcasing his multifaceted talent in both film and theater. Phillips has continued to adapt over the years, appearing in popular television shows such as "24", "Longmire", and "Brooklyn Nine-Nine", while also engaging in competitive poker, displaying his tenacity and diverse interests outside of acting.
Early Life and Education
Lou Diamond Phillips was born on February 17, 1962, at the Subic Bay Naval Station in the Philippines to Lucita Aranas, of Filipino descent, and Gerald Upchurch, an American naval officer with Scottish and Irish ancestry. After his mother remarried, Lou was adopted by her second husband, adopting the surname Phillips. Growing up in a small town in Texas, he developed a passion for acting early on, which would shape the trajectory of his life. He strived to seize every opportunity that came his way, displaying an eagerness to network with industry idols during their visits to nearby Dallas.
Phillips chose to pursue his passion for drama at the University of Texas at Arlington instead of following the path to Yale. There, he obtained a Bachelor of Fine Arts in drama and became heavily involved in campus productions and a local comedy troupe. His ambition led him to actively seek out opportunities to showcase his talent while staying connected to the theater scene. Phillips' diligent work and determination to break into Hollywood culminated in his big break with the role of Ritchie Valens in the 1987 film La Bamba, which established him as one of Tinseltown's most promising young stars.
Movies and TV Roles: Breakthrough with La Bamba
Lou Diamond Phillips achieved widespread recognition in Hollywood with his breakthrough role as Ritchie Valens in the 1987 biographical film "La Bamba". This performance showcased his talent and charisma, capturing the tragic story of the young rock star who died in a plane crash. The film became a cult classic, propelling Phillips to the forefront of the industry and establishing him as one of the promising young actors of his generation. His ability to embody the character resonated with audiences, earning him critical acclaim and setting the stage for his future projects.
Following the success of "La Bamba", Phillips continued to demonstrate his range as an actor through influential roles in films such as "Stand and Deliver" and "Young Guns". In "Stand and Deliver" (1988), he portrayed a gang member whose life is transformed by a dedicated math teacher, earning a Golden Globe nomination for his performance. That same year, Phillips joined an ensemble cast in "Young Guns", further solidifying his status as a leading man in Hollywood. These roles not only showcased his versatility but also marked the beginning of a diverse career that would include both film and television projects over the years.
Career Success: Stand and Deliver to Broadway
Lou Diamond Phillips achieved remarkable career success, skyrocketing to fame with his portrayal of Ritchie Valens in the 1987 film "La Bamba." This biopic encapsulated the life of the young rock star, and Phillips' performance resonated with audiences, marking a pivotal moment in his acting journey. Following this breakout role, he starred in "Stand and Deliver" (1988), where he played a gang member transformed by a dedicated teacher, ultimately earning a Golden Globe nomination for Best Supporting Actor. This trajectory positioned Phillips as one of Hollywood's promising talents during the late 1980s.
Despite some early 1990s setbacks, including a string of lackluster films, Phillips found renewed acclaim on Broadway. In 1996, he made a significant move back to theater as he took on the role of the King in the revival of "The King and I." This performance not only showcased his versatility as an actor, but also led to a Tony Award nomination, solidifying his status on both stage and screen. As Phillips has navigated between film and theater throughout his career, his ability to tackle diverse roles has made him a compelling figure in the entertainment industry, breaking down the barriers of typecasting and establishing a legacy as a leading man.
Recent Projects: Longmire and The 33
Lou Diamond Phillips has enjoyed a diverse and dynamic career spanning film, television, and theater, making a notable impact in recent projects such as "Longmire" and "The 33." In "Longmire," which aired from 2012 to 2017, Phillips portrayed Henry Standing Bear, a close friend of the titular sheriff. The series, set against the backdrop of Wyoming’s breathtaking landscapes, captivated audiences with its blend of crime drama and western elements. Phillips’ performance was lauded for its depth, showcasing his ability to navigate complex characters, further solidifying his status as a versatile actor with a strong connection to his Native American heritage.
In 2015, Phillips also starred in "The 33," a drama depicting the gripping true story of the 2010 Chilean mining accident that trapped 33 miners underground for 69 days. His role as one of the rescued miners added a layer of authenticity to the film, which aimed to highlight both the harrowing experiences of the miners and the resilience of the human spirit. With a talented ensemble cast including Antonio Banderas and Juliette Binoche, "The 33" was well-received, keeping Phillips relevant and respected in Hollywood while demonstrating his commitment to telling impactful stories.
Personal Life: Children and Relationships
Lou Diamond Phillips' romantic journey began when he met assistant director Julie Cypher while working on the film "Trespasses" in 1986. The couple married but eventually divorced in 1990. Following their split, Phillips had a brief engagement with actress Jennifer Tilly. In 1994, he married Kelly Preston, who is not to be confused with the famous actress of the same name. Together, they welcomed three children: twins Isabella and Grace, followed by their younger daughter, Lili. Phillips and Preston's marriage faced challenges, leading to their separation in 2004, though their divorce was finalized in 2007.
After his divorce from Kelly Preston, Phillips began dating Yvonne Boismier. Their relationship blossomed, leading to marriage after his divorce was finalized. The couple welcomed a daughter, Indigo Sanara, further enriching Phillips’ family life. Throughout his personal history, Phillips has managed to maintain close relationships with his children, actively participating in their lives while balancing the demands of his acting career. The actor often emphasizes the importance of family and the joy his children bring him, a sentiment that resonates deeply with his diverse background and experiences.
Net Worth and Earning: Salary Insights
Lou Diamond Phillips has built a successful career in Hollywood, which has significantly contributed to his net worth. While specific numbers are often speculative, his estimated net worth is reported to be in the range of $6 million. This wealth comes not only from his film and television roles but also from his stage work and various personal appearances. Phillips's consistent presence in both film and television has helped him maintain a steady income stream, allowing him to invest in other interests, including competitive poker.
Throughout his career, Phillips has garnered a variety of salaries depending on the project. For instance, during his early years in the industry, he received substantial pay for breakout roles in films like "La Bamba" and "Young Guns." Later in his career, his work in major television series such as "Longmire" further boosted his earnings. Apart from acting, his poker winnings—over $30,000 from major tournaments like the World Series of Poker—have also added to his financial portfolio, showcasing his versatility not just as an actor but as a competitive player.
