Edward James Olmos is an American actor, director, producer, and activist. Born on February 24, 1947, in Los Angeles, California, he grew up in a Mexican-American family that nurtured his love for the arts. He attended East Los Angeles College, where he first discovered his penchant for acting. Later, he studied at the Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute which further honed his skills. Olmos's career took off in the early 1970s, with roles in television series such as Hawaii Five-O and films like Zoot Suit. However, it was his portrayal of Lieutenant Martin Castillo in the popular TV series Miami Vice that catapulted him into the limelight. This role not only earned him an Emmy Award but also helped him win a Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actor. His performance in Stand and Deliver, a film based on the life of legendary teacher Jaime Escalante, garnered him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor, marking him as one of the few Latin actors to receive this recognition. Aside from his acting prowess, Olmos is also known for his contributions behind the camera. He directed and produced several episodes of Battlestar Galactica, a critically acclaimed science fiction series. Moreover, his commitment towards social and environmental issues is just as profound. He co-founded the Latino Literacy Now which promotes literacy among Latinos, and has been actively involved in organizations like the Waterkeeper Alliance that focuses on preserving and protecting water bodies around the world.