He was born in Halifax Nova Scotia. Adopted by Barb and Jack Fretwell. Attended Laurentian High School in Ottawa then went on to Carleton University after a stop at the University of Western Ontario in London, Ontario. Played Quarterback throughout high school and University. Debuted in Larry Gelbart's 'Fast Track' and perpetually teased by former football buddies for being the guy in Canada's Mennen Speed Stick commercial in the late 90s.Stephen tracked down his biological mother Joan Jahnke in 1995. He has two half brothers, Greg Athanas and Chris Athanas. Chris is the founder of Digieffects - a software special effects company based in Texas the makers of "Cinelook"and other video effect applications. Married, he's the father of Aislin LaFey, born Jauary 19th, 2003 in Toronto.