Mark Wahlberg

Mark Wahlberg is an American actor, producer, model and former rapper. He was known as Marky Mark in his earlier years and became famous for his 1991 debut as frontman with the band Marky Mark and the Funky Bunch. He later transitioned to acting and is now known for his roles in films including "Boogie Nights," "Three Kings," "Planet of the Apes," "The Italian Job," "I Heart Huckabees," "The Departed," "Shooter," "Max Payne," "The Other Guys," "The Fighter," "Ted" and "Pain & Gain." He has also served as the executive producer of the TV series "Entourage," "Boardwalk Empire" and "How to Make It in America."

Mark Wahlberg had a rocky upbringing of hustling and drug dealing, but when his older brother Donnie rocketed to stardom as a member of New Kids on the Block, Wahlberg decided find his own niche in the music business. Driven by the success of the hit dance singles "Good Vibrations" and "Wildside," his album went platinum, selling over a million copies. He signed a two-year contract with the designer Calvin Klein to model underwear.

Wahlberg's successful transition into acting started with his performance in "Renaissance Man." However, his breakthrough role was in "The Basketball Diaries." From that point on, he shed the name and reputation of "Marky Mark."