Harry Hamlin is an acclaimed American actor, author, and entrepreneur best known for his role as Michael Kuzak on the hit legal drama L.A. Law.
With a career spanning over four decades, Hamlin has become a versatile and respected figure in Hollywood, appearing in film, television, and stage productions. Beyond his acting career, he is also known for his business ventures and as an advocate for various causes.
Early Life and Education
Harry Robinson Hamlin was born on October 30, 1951, in Pasadena, California. Raised in a creative and intellectual family, he developed an early interest in the arts. He attended Flintridge Preparatory School and later transferred to The Hill School, a prestigious boarding school in Pennsylvania.
Hamlin pursued higher education at the University of California, Berkeley, where he majored in drama. He later transferred to Yale University, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in drama and psychology. Hamlin further honed his craft by attending the American Conservatory Theater in San Francisco, where he earned a Master of Fine Arts.
Breakthrough with Clash of the Titans
Hamlin gained widespread recognition in 1981 when he starred as Perseus in the fantasy adventure film Clash of the Titans. The movie, which retold the Greek myth of Perseus and Medusa, became a box-office hit and established Hamlin as a rising star in Hollywood.
His portrayal of the heroic and determined Perseus showcased his charisma and screen presence, making him a heartthrob of the era.
Success with L.A. Law
Hamlin achieved critical and commercial success when he joined the cast of L.A. Law in 1986. Playing Michael Kuzak, a principled attorney navigating the complexities of law and morality, Hamlin became a fan favorite.
His performance earned him three Golden Globe nominations for Best Actor in a Television Series and solidified his status as one of the leading actors on television in the late 1980s and early 1990s. The show’s popularity and Hamlin’s portrayal of Kuzak helped redefine legal dramas for television audiences.
Film and Television Career
In addition to his success on L.A. Law, Hamlin has appeared in a variety of television series and films. Notable roles include guest appearances on Mad Men, where he played ad executive Jim Cutler, and Veronica Mars.
Hamlin has also explored a range of genres in films, including the romantic drama Making Love (1982) and the thriller Blue Skies Again (1983). His ability to transition between film and television has made him a versatile and enduring presence in Hollywood.
Personal Life
Hamlin has been married to actress Lisa Rinna since 1997, and the couple has two daughters, Delilah Belle and Amelia Gray. Their marriage has been in the public eye, particularly through Rinna’s appearances on The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills.
Hamlin was previously married to actress Laura Johnson and had a relationship with Ursula Andress, with whom he shares a son, Dimitri Hamlin.
Entrepreneurial Ventures and Advocacy
Outside of acting, Hamlin has ventured into business, co-founding Tri Alpha Energy, a company focused on sustainable energy solutions. He is also an advocate for environmental conservation and renewable energy initiatives.
In addition, Hamlin authored the memoir Full Frontal Nudity: The Making of an Accidental Actor (2010), which recounts his journey in Hollywood with humor and candor.
