Edward James Olmos was born on February 24, 1947, in East Los Angeles, at The First Japanese Hospital, to Pedro Olmos and Eleanor Huizar. Growing up on Cheesebrough's Lane, he attended Greenwood Elementary and Montebello Junior High, before graduating from Montebello High School in 1964.
Following his high school graduation, Olmos pursued higher education, earning an Associate of Arts Degree in Sociology and Criminal Justice at East Los Angeles College in 1966. His academic achievements did not go unnoticed, as he received the Alumni of The Year award from Montebello High School in 2014, and the Man of the Year Award from The Mexican American Opportunity Foundation in 2015.
Olmos has made a lasting impact in the entertainment industry, with a career spanning over three decades. He is a Tony, Emmy, and Academy Award-nominated actor, producer, and humanitarian. Many young audiences may recognize him for his role as Admiral William Adama in the SYFY television series "Battlestar Galactica," which aired from 2003 to 2009.
However, his work on the show did not preclude him from taking on other projects. In 2007, Olmos directed the HBO movie "Walkout," earning a DGA nomination for Outstanding Directorial Achievement in Movies for Television. His dedication to his craft has garnered him widespread recognition and acclaim, both within the industry and among global audiences.
Throughout his career, Olmos has developed a distinctive style and aesthetic, often grounding his characters in reality and gravitas. His commitment to his work has resulted in a diverse range of roles, showcasing his versatility and talent as an actor, producer, and director.