Louis Diamond Phillips is a multifaceted American creative talent, effortlessly transitioning between acting and film direction. His remarkable breakthrough came with his captivating portrayal of Ritchie Valens in the biographical drama film La Bamba, released in 1987.
The subsequent year, Phillips received widespread acclaim for his outstanding performance in Stand and Deliver, earning a Golden Globe Award nomination and taking home an Independent Spirit Award. This impressive display of his acting prowess solidified his position as a rising star in the film industry.
Phillips made his Broadway debut in 1996, starring in the revival of The King and I, and received a Tony Award nomination for his unforgettable performance as King Mongkut of Siam. This achievement showcased his versatility and range as a performer.
Throughout his illustrious career, Phillips has been involved in a wide range of notable films, including Young Guns (1988),Young Guns II (1990),Courage Under Fire (1996),The Big Hit (1998),Brokedown Palace (1999),Che (2008),and The 33 (2015).
In addition to his film work, Phillips has also made a significant impact in television. He played the main character Henry Standing Bear in the popular series Longmire, and more recently, he portrayed New York City Police Lieutenant Gil Arroyo in the FOX series Prodigal Son from 2019 to 2021.