Inteviewee: Sean Penn
Inteviewer: Teavis Smiley
Date: January 7, 2008

American film actor and director Sean Penn is one of the most talented and controversial personalities in the industry. He is the recipient of two Academic Awards for his stirring portrayal of an anguished father in Mystic River and real life gay rights activist Harvey Milk in Milk. Other award winning performances include roles in I am Sam, Grams, and The Assassination of Richard Nixon.

Born August 17, 1960 in Los Angeles, California, Sean Penn belongs to a family with a background in film. His mother is Hollywood actress Eileen Ryan and film director Leo Penn. Critics and fans first saw the young Sean Penn in Taps (1981) and Fast Times at Ridgemont High (1982), but it was his brilliant performance in the Cold War movie The Falcon and the Snowman that drew attention and spurred the launch of his colorful career in the movie industry. Sean Penn would be best known for his versatility and power in portraying some of the most intriguing characters. From his depiction of corrupt attorney David Kleinfeld in Carlito’s Way to the death row inmate in Dead Man Walking, he has proven to be one of the most dynamic and accomplished actors of his generation.

Sean Penn debuted as a film director in 1991 with The Indian Runner, which was followed by other critically-acclaimed movies such as The Crossing Guard, The Pledge and Into the Wild. In addition to this, he directed music videos for Shania Twain and Jewel.

Off show business, Sean Penn’s private life and political leanings has been the frequent subject of media attention. His marriage to pop phenomenon Madonna (1985-1989) resulted to a partnership that led frequently to his scuffles with the paparazzi and authorities.

A well-known political activist, Sean Penn is an outspoken critic of government policies, notably human rights and anti-war advocacy. He visited Iran several times and is friendly with leftist leaders Raul Castro of Cuba and Hugo Chavez of Venezuela.