​Lou Diamond Phillips is an acclaimed actor, director, and advocate whose career spans decades of impactful work in film, television, and theater. He rose to prominence with his breakout role as Ritchie Valens in the biographical film La Bamba (1987), where his heartfelt performance brought the late rock and roll legend to life. He further cemented his reputation with standout roles in Stand and Deliver (1988), earning a Golden Globe nomination, and Young Guns (1988), showcasing his ability to shine in ensemble casts.

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In television, Phillips gained critical acclaim for his role as Henry Standing Bear in the series Longmire, a character known for his wisdom and integrity, and for his dramatic turn in Prodigal Son, where he played a steadfast and complex detective. His work extends to theater, where he received a Tony Award nomination for his portrayal of the King of Siam in the Broadway revival of The King and I, demonstrating his versatility and command of the stage.

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In addition to his artistic achievements, Phillips is a dedicated advocate for Native American and Indigenous representation in media and the arts. His directing credits further reflect his commitment to storytelling, emphasizing underrepresented voices and themes of cultural significance.