American actor Philip "Mickey" Rourke was born in upstate New York but grew up in Miami, Florida.

Struggled his way through odd jobs and acting lessons in New York City in the mid 1970's (Rourke studied at Lee Strasberg Institute for a time) eventually making his way to Hollywood circa 1979.

Made film debut in 1980's 'Fade To Black, and won critical acclaim a year later in 'Body Heat'. Rose to superstardom with three hits, 'Rumblefish', 'Diner' and 'The Pope of Greenwhich Village' in the mid 1980's.

Has retained a cult following in the U.S. but is a mega-star in Europe, particularly France. An outspoken Irish nationalist (he starred as an IRA member in 1988's 'A Prayer for the Dying') Rourke started a dual career as a professional boxer in the early 1990's.

When not acting he spends much of his time running a nightclub in Florida and a gym in Hollywood. Rourke is the star of the new film Sin City, a 2005 release.

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