Born on July 8, 1959, in Fremont, Ohio, he developed a passion for acting early on and studied theater at Northwestern University. He gained prominence for his role as Theodore "T-Bag" Bagwell in the TV series "Prison Break," showcasing his talent for portraying complex antagonists. His career spans film, television, and stage, with notable appearances in "Heroes," "Twin Peaks," and "The Hunger Games" series. His intense performances and unique presence have made him a respected figure in the industry.