From beaten and bruised to one of the brightest stars in the world

He often sat silently in a studio corner while his mother worked. With no babysitters around, he spent childhood hours observing rehearsals, absorbing music, rhythm, and movement in a Houston dance hall instead of playing typical childhood games.

Born on August 18, 1952, he grew up between two worlds. His father’s technical career and his mother’s leadership in ballet created a home shaped by both discipline and creativity, and he was eager to embrace every interest available to him.

He pursued countless activities—sports, music, theater, and daily dance training. Constant motion defined him, not restlessness alone, but a deep need to stay engaged and expressive.

In 1960s Texas, however, a boy devoted to ballet and violin stood out. Teasing turned physical at times, forcing him to learn resilience. His parents encouraged toughness and pride in who he was rather than shame.

A football injury in adolescence closed one possible future, pushing him fully toward dance and performance. Intensive training in New York sharpened his natural talent and prepared him for opportunities in film.

Success arrived in the 1980s, culminating in a role that made him an international star and symbol of strength blended with artistry. Yet fame coexisted with personal grief, addiction struggles, and family loss that shaped his inner life.

Diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2008, he faced illness with determination until his death in 2009. His journey endures as a reminder that what makes someone different can ultimately become what makes them unforgettable.