Martin Sheen

Martin Sheen is an American actor known for major film and television roles, including Captain Benjamin L.

Martin Sheen is an American actor known for major film and television roles, including Captain Benjamin L. Willard in *Apocalypse Now* and President Josiah Bartlet in *The West Wing*. He was born in Dayton, Ohio, and has also been active as a social activist. He is well known to Canadian audiences through widely distributed films and television series such as *Apocalypse Now*, *The West Wing*, and *Grace and Frankie*.

Early life and background

Martin Sheen was born Ramón Antonio Gerard Estevez in Dayton, Ohio, to an Irish mother and a Spanish-born father. Sources describe him as later adopting the stage name Martin Sheen when he began pursuing acting.

Acting career

Sheen first gained attention in stage and film work before becoming widely known for *Badlands* and *Apocalypse Now*. He later reached a new level of popularity on television as President Josiah Bartlet in *The West Wing*.

Activism

Beyond acting, Sheen has been described as a longtime activist and humanitarian, with advocacy connected to human rights, peace, and social justice causes.

Family

Sheen and Janet Templeton married in 1961 and have four children, all of whom became actors. His children include Emilio Estevez, Charlie Sheen, Ramón Estevez, and Renée Estevez.