Born in New York City and raised in Malibu, California, he emerged as a prominent figure in the 1980s as part of the "Brat Pack," starring in films like "The Breakfast Club" and "St. Elmo's Fire." Transitioning to directing, he made his debut with "Wisdom" in 1986 and later received acclaim for "Bobby," a film about Robert F. Kennedy's assassination. He continues to work in both acting and directing, balancing independent projects with mainstream success.