Personal info
Known for
Actor
Gender
Male
Birthday
31 July
Location
Alabama, United States
Edit pageMichael Biehn
Biography
Michael Biehn is an accomplished American actor known for his memorable roles in action, science fiction, and thriller films. Born in Anniston, Alabama, Biehn moved with his family to Lincoln, Nebraska, and later to Lake Havasu City, Arizona, during his childhood. His passion for acting emerged early, and he pursued his dreams by enrolling in the drama program at the University of Arizona.
Biehn eventually moved to Hollywood to build his career, landing small roles before earning recognition as a leading man in some of the most iconic films of the 1980s and 1990s.
Career
Early Roles
Michael Biehn began his acting career with minor roles in television and film during the late 1970s. He appeared in TV series such as Logan's Run and James at 15. His first significant film role was in The Fan (1981), where he portrayed a disturbed admirer opposite Lauren Bacall.
Breakthrough with James Cameron
Biehn’s career took a major turn when he collaborated with director James Cameron:
- The Terminator (1984): Biehn played Kyle Reese, a soldier from the future sent to protect Sarah Connor (Linda Hamilton) from the deadly Terminator. His portrayal of the heroic and determined Reese earned critical acclaim and established him as a leading actor in Hollywood.
- Aliens (1986): Biehn reunited with Cameron to play Corporal Dwayne Hicks, a resourceful and courageous Marine. The role further solidified his reputation as a charismatic action star.
- The Abyss (1989): In another collaboration with Cameron, Biehn took on the role of Lieutenant Hiram Coffey, a Navy SEAL whose mental breakdown adds tension to the underwater thriller.
Other Notable Films
Beyond his work with James Cameron, Biehn appeared in several other acclaimed films:
- Tombstone (1993): Biehn portrayed Johnny Ringo, a volatile gunslinger and antagonist to Kurt Russell's Wyatt Earp. His intense performance was a standout in the Western classic.
- Navy SEALs (1990): Biehn starred as Lieutenant James Curran in this military action film alongside Charlie Sheen.
- The Rock (1996): He played Commander Anderson, a Navy SEAL team leader, in Michael Bay's action blockbuster.
Directorial Work
In 2010, Biehn expanded his career by venturing into directing. His debut film, The Victim (2011), was a low-budget grindhouse thriller in which he also starred. The project showcased his versatility and passion for storytelling.
Television Work
In addition to his film career, Biehn appeared in numerous television shows, including:
- The Magnificent Seven (1998–2000): A TV adaptation of the classic Western, where he starred as Chris Larabee.
- Guest roles in series such as Adventure Inc., Hawaii Five-0, and Criminal Minds.