An American filmmaker, actor, and writer, he emerged as a central figure in the 1960s New York City underground film scene. Known for his collaboration with Andy Warhol, he directed and acted in several avant-garde films. He was influential in launching the career of model and actress Edie Sedgwick, starring her in "Ciao! Manhattan." He later transitioned to Los Angeles, where he continued working on various film projects and maintained a presence in the entertainment world until his passing in 2008.