Jeff Bridges

Born to famed actor Lloyd Bridges, Jeff Bridges is an American actor who began his career as an infant, with parts in both TV and film. He broke through in "The Last Picture Show," which garnered him an Academy Award nomination. Bridges appeared in popular films such as "Heaven's Gate," "TRON" and "The Big Lebowski." He received Oscar nominations for "Starman" and "Tucker." He won the award for "Crazy Heart" in 2009.

Often a discipline problem at school, Bridges' academics tended to take a backseat to his creative efforts. At the age of 16, he wrote a song which was used in the 1969 film John and Mary. While still a teenager, he also sold two compositions to music producer Quincy Jones.

The actor's big break, Peter Bogdonavitch's critically acclaimed "The Last Picture Show," led to more serious roles in films such as "Fat City" and "The Last American Hero." But during this time in his career, Bridges wasn't focused on acclaim or stardom.

It wasn't until he signed on to the 1973 drama, "The Icecman Cometh," that Bridges seriously considered making a life of acting. Bridges went on to have an illustrious acting career, appearing in popular films such as "Heaven's Gate" and "TRON." Later films include "The Fisher King," starring Robin Williams and "The Mirror Has Two Faces," featuring Barbra Streisand.

In 1998, Bridges experienced a resurgence in popularity with the Coen brothers' cult hit, "The Big Lebowski." The film was not an instant commercial success, but fans were drawn to the comic one-liners and quirky characters. The movie spawned an annual Lebowski Fest in Louisville, Kentucky, which started in 2002 and has continued for more than eight years.

Bridges' 2001 supporting role in "The Contender" was also well-received. His performance earned him both a Golden Globe and Academy Award nomination. In 2009, the actor received his fifth Oscar nomination and first Oscar win; this time, for his role in the romantic drama "Crazy Heart." His other projects have included roles in the "TRON" sequel, "TRON Legacy," and a role in the movie "True Grit."