Shemar Franklin Moore was born on April 20, 1970, in Oakland, California. His mother, Marilyn Wilson, a business consultant, and his father, Sherrod Moore, a military professional, instilled in him an appreciation for diversity and determination. This multicultural upbringing, combined with his undeniable talent, has propelled Moore's career in the entertainment industry to remarkable heights. Moore's journey into the world of acting began after graduating from Santa Clara University with a degree in Communications and Theatre Arts. His breakthrough came when he landed the role of Malcolm Winters on the popular daytime soap opera The Young and the Restless in 1994. For eight years, Moore captivated audiences with his portrayal, earning him an Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series in 2000. However, it was Moore's transition to primetime television that truly solidified his status as a versatile actor. In 2005, he joined the cast of the crime drama Criminal Minds, taking on the challenging role of FBI Special Agent Derek Morgan. His performance was met with critical acclaim, further establishing his reputation in the industry.