Forest Whitaker

Producer, actor and director, Forest Whitaker was born on July 15, 1961, in the city of Longview, Texas. He was a college soccer player who would later turn to study drama and opera. In high school, he was a quarterback, which later saw him land a scholarship to play for California State University. He suffered an injury for a long time and later transferred to the University of South California, where he studied drama and opera. Forest made his debut film in 1982 when he was featured in a comedy known as Fast Times at Ridgemont High together with Sean Penn and Nicholas Cage. The versatile actor later appeared in several acclaimed movies throughout the ’80s, which include The Color of Money in and Platoon in 1986, and Vietnam in 1987. His role in the film industry saw him get awarded at the Cannes Film Festival for the Best Actor Award.

Career Accomplishments

Whitaker has had a long history of success, having worked with renowned film directors as well as fellow actors such as 50 Cent, Maggie Grace and Lil Wayne. His career began to sprout in 1988 when he played a role in the famous film Bloodsport, which also features Jean-Claude Van Damme. His performance earned him an award at the Cannes Film Festival as well as a Golden Globe Nomination. Forest did not stop there; he continued to work with big names in the industry throughout the 90s. In 1990 he was featured in a film known as Downtownwith Penelope Ann Miller and Anthony Edwards. Later on, Neil Jordan decided to cast him an important role of Jody, a British soldier who was held captive in the film The Crying Game. Forest soon expanded to directing and producing, having a specific interest in Television. He worked in projects such as the 2002 Emmy-Winning Door to Door, which starred William H. Macy, and Strapped for HBO. His major success came in 2006 when he won an Oscar Award for his powerful performance in the movie The Last King of Scotland. His role as the dictator Idi Amin also earned him many accolades, such as Academy Award for the Best Actor.

Most Known For

Whitaker is best known for his role in the film industry since the early ’80s. Many people know him for his incredible performance in the film The Last King of Scotland, where he takes up the role of Dictator Idi Amin.

Where is he now

Today Whitaker and his lovely wife live near his retired parents in Los Angeles. He has not abolished his interest in filmmaking. Currently, he is working on projects and is actively involved in directing and producing films. He operates a company known as Spirit Dance Entertainment, which includes music production, television and film.