After graduation from the Macalester College, where he obtained his degree in English, he began working in Associated Press in his hometown. During that time, he also worked freelance, writing for various newspapers and magazines.
It was when he was entrusted with an article on theater that he began to be interested in this medium, and little by little he was introduced to the world of acting, working for two years in improvised comedy, together with the then unknown actor Danny glover.
His first important role was that of Detective Marcus Petrie in the television series “Cagney and Lacey“(1982–1988). But undoubtedly one of his most memorable roles is that of Marcus dixon, in the series “Alias“, which he played between 2001 and 2006. Other prominent roles in his career were that of Martian manhunter on “Justice league” Y “Justice League Unlimited“(giving his voice to the character); in addition to a recurring role in”LA Law“and multiple guest appearances in as many series.
His important and extensive film career began in 1979, with a small role in the film starring Clint eastwood, “Alcatraz leak“. Then titles like” would come.The Adventures of Buckaroo Banzai” (1984), “Suddenly a stranger” (1990), “Men of Honor“(2000),”The Alphabet Killer“(2008); in addition to countless feature films filmed especially for television.
Regarding his personal life, he married the actress Vonetta McGee in 1987, who recently passed away. They both had a son named Brandon, born in 1988.