He was born in Madison, Wisconsin. He was raised in Sarasota, Florida. He received his undergraduate degree from St.Olaf College, (B.A. - English) in Minnesota. He received his graduate degree from Pepperdine University, (M.B.A.) in Malibu, California. In addition to his acting career, he is a composer and singer-songwriter, and artist. A number of his paintings are owned by collectors in California, Florida, Texas, and Kansas.