Stephen's earliest years were spent in the city of Dayton, Ohio, situated in the Midwest region of the United States, where he was nurtured and raised by his devoted mother, Sally Boyd Polk, a caring and influential presence in his formative years.
As he grew older, Stephen's life took him to other parts of the country, where he resided in the bustling metropolis of New York City, amidst the fast-paced and culturally rich environment of the Big Apple.
Additionally, Stephen also spent time in the state of Wyoming, where he was under the care of his father, Louis F. Polk, a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, having served as both president and chairman of the legendary Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer studios, a testament to his leadership and vision.
Stephen's academic journey was characterized by his enrollment in prestigious institutions, including Westminster, Kenyon College, NYU Film School, and The Neighborhood Playhouse, providing him with a comprehensive foundation in the arts. Moreover, he was fortunate enough to have had the opportunity to hone his acting skills under the mentorship of some of the most revered instructors in the industry, namely Sanford Meisner, Tony Greco, Stella Adler, Greg Zittel, Harry Mastrogeorge, Margie Haber, and Lesly Kahn.
Stephen has made a profound and lasting impact within the realm of theatrical performance, with a notable career trajectory that has seen him take the stage at the prestigious Guthrie and Children's Theater Company in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Throughout his tenure at these esteemed institutions, Stephen has garnered widespread recognition and acclaim, culminating in the prestigious Walker Art Center Performance Art Award, a testament to his exceptional skill and artistry.
In addition to his numerous accolades, Stephen has also had the privilege of starring in regional productions of the works of the great William Shakespeare and Eugene O'Neill, two literary giants whose masterpieces continue to captivate audiences to this day.
With his impressive credentials and extensive experience, Stephen has undoubtedly established himself as a force to be reckoned with in the world of theater, and his contributions to the art form will undoubtedly be remembered for years to come.
Stephen's nascent professional trajectory began with a groundbreaking appearance in the cinematic masterpiece "Thelma & Louise," a film that has since become an iconic representation of American cinema. Following this auspicious debut, he continued to hone his craft by taking on a variety of small yet significant roles in major studio productions, gradually transitioning towards a deeper involvement with the independent film community.
Stephen's television career commenced with the production and subsequent airing of not one, but two television movies, namely "Homeland Security" and "Holiday Baggage," which made their debut in the year 2010, marking the beginning of his illustrious journey in the world of television.