Damian Chapa

Damian Chapa was born on October 29, 1963, in Dayton, Ohio. He is of Mexican, Italian, Irish, and Native American descent. Early in his life, Chapa gained experience as a stand-in for Madonna’s “Papa Don’t Preach” music video. He served three years in the U.S. Navy on three different ships, including the U.S.S. Henry B. Wilson Guided missile destroyer. Following his military service, Chapa pursued an acting career, drawing inspiration from Montgomery Clift. He refined his craft at the 18th Street Theater in New York and received coaching from master director Robert Easton.

Chapa achieved international recognition early in his acting career. In 1993, he secured a starring role as Miklo Velka in “Blood In, Blood Out,” a performance that resonated widely, particularly within the Latino community, and contributed to the film becoming a historically high-grossing Latin film. This was followed by a role in “Under Siege” (1992) alongside Tommy Lee Jones and Steven Seagal. His career continued with prominent roles, including starring with Chris Tucker in “Money Talks” and portraying Lyle Menendez in “Menendez: A Killing in Beverly Hills” alongside Beverly D’Angelo and Edward James Olmos.

Beyond acting, Chapa expanded his career into directing and producing. He established a production company, initially named Rico Films in honor of his late eldest brother, later changed to New York International Pictures. His directorial work has been critically acknowledged, earning him Best Director and Best Feature awards at the New York International Independent Film and Video Festival for his 2011 film “Brando Unauthorized.” Chapa has directed notable actors such as Stacy Keach, Rachel Hunter, Robert Wagner, Joe Estevez, Faye Dunaway, David Carradine, Brad Dourif, Gary Busey, Robert Davi, and Danny Trejo across multiple projects.