Jon Seda

Biography

Jon Seda is an actor born in Clifton, New Jersey, with a Puerto Rican heritage. He was initially pursuing a career in professional boxing when his mother suggested he try acting as a backup plan. Following her advice, Seda took acting lessons, which eventually led to his debut role as Romano, a Cuban boxer, in the 1992 film Gladiator.

Seda's breakthrough came in 1994 when he played the role of the cheating husband in Darnell Martin's I Like It Like That. He continued to rise to prominence with his portrayal of Chris Perez, the musician and husband of the late singer Selena Quintanilla, in Selena (1997). Throughout the 1990s, Seda gained recognition for his versatility, playing a tough street kid in Zebrahead (1992), a Dominican hoodlum in Carlito's Way (1993), and a tortured inmate in Terry Gilliam’s 12 Monkeys (1995).

In 1996, Seda showcased his dramatic range with a memorable role as a gang member with a brain tumor who takes a doctor hostage in Michael Cimino's Sunchaser. He further built his reputation with a role as a co-worker and romantic rival in The Price of Kissing (1997). Seda's early television work included guest appearances on NYPD Blue and New York Undercover, as well as a significant role in HBO's Mistrial (1996).

Seda became widely known for his portrayal of the tough, conflicted detective Mike Giardello on Homicide: Life in the Street (NBC, 1997), a role that earned him further critical acclaim. He also worked with Darnell Martin again in the premiere episode of Oz (1997), where he played Dino Ortolani, a character who meets a violent end in a brutal prison environment.

More recently, Seda starred as Dr. Sam Valez in NBC's La Brea (2021–), continuing to expand his diverse television and film career. His journey from aspiring boxer to successful actor is a testament to his dedication to his craft, and his body of work reflects his range in playing both heroic and villainous roles.