Born on January 23, 1950, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, he pursued acting after studying at St. Cloud State University and Ohio University. He gained fame in the 1980s as the lead in the TV series "MacGyver," where he played a resourceful problem-solver. His success continued with the role of Jack O'Neill in "Stargate SG-1." Beyond acting, he is known for his environmental activism and philanthropy. He has also made guest appearances on various television shows and participated in numerous charity events.