Derek Luke

Born: April 24 1974
Where: Jersey City, New Jersey, USA

Luke shot to international prominence for his debut performance as the title character in Antwone Fisher.

Prior to the movie, in which he played a naval rating who suffered childhood abuse, he was waiting tables at the Independent Spirit Awards.

Four years later he was stepping up at the same show to receive the best actor award for his role in Denzel Washington's directorial debut.

Subsequent to his success in Antwone Fisher, he landed roles in Pieces of April and Biker Boyz with Laurence Fishburne and Lisa Bonet.

In 2004, he starred in David Mamet's thriller Spartan with Val Kilmer and William H Macy.

Recent work includes the American football drama Friday Night Lights with Billy Bob Thornton.