Orhan Aydın (i)

Steven Seagal, an expert in Japanese martial arts, is a prominent figure in action films. While his films are known for their high level of violence, they also distinguish themselves from others by incorporating spiritual themes and addressing social issues such as environmental awareness. Born on April 10, 1951, in Michigan, USA, to a medical technician mother and a mathematics teacher father, Seagal moved with his family to California at the age of five. At seven, his interest in martial arts led him to take aikido lessons in Garden Grove. In 1971, he moved to Japan, where he furthered his knowledge of Zen Buddhism and martial arts while teaching English. In 1975, he married in Japan and took over a martial arts school from his father-in-law, becoming the first Westerner to open a dojo in Japan. During this time, he occasionally appeared in martial arts films and also trained actors such as Sean Connery and Toshiro Mifune. Developing an interest in Eastern religions, Seagal stated in a 1997 interview with Shambala Sun that his interest in Tibetan Buddhism led him to study acupuncture. After spending many years in Asia, reportedly maintaining close relationships with CIA agents, he returned to the US after 15 years and opened a new martial arts school. He also worked as a bodyguard for celebrities, including his future wife Kelly Le Brock and Michael Ovitz. With Ovitz's help, Seagal signed with Warner Bros. to star in action films. He played a significant role in the high-octane action sequences of his debut film, Above the Law (1988), directed by Andrew Davis. His performance earned him recognition, launching his action film career. His next film, Hard to Kill (1989), saw him portray a police officer who awakens from a coma to seek revenge. His success solidified with Under Siege (1992). In 1994, he ventured into directing with On Deadly Ground, though it received mixed reviews. He continued his action film career with Executive Decision (1996) and The Patriot (1998). In 1999, he produced Prince of Central Park and played a police officer again in Exit Wounds (2001). His other 2001 films included Ticker and The Path Beyond Thought. In 1997, he sparked controversy by claiming to have been a Buddhist monk in a past life. He maintains his serious commitment to Buddhism, stating that he continually improves his meditation practice to become a better teacher.