Irving "Ving" Rhames was born in New York City, New York, and grew up in Harlem, New York. A good student, Ving entered the New York High School of Performing Arts, where he discovered his love of acting. He studied at the Julliard School of Drama, and began his career in New York theater. He first appeared on Broadway in the play "The Winter Boys" in 1984. Ving continued his rise to fame through his work in soap operas. He found work as a supporting actor, and came to the attention of the general public in Pulp Fiction (1994).

Spent two years as part of the acting class of 1982 at the State University of New York at Purchase (SUNY Purchase) before returning to Julliard.

Education: Juilliard, NY (Drama)

Was given the nickname he goes by, "Ving," by his one time roomate Stanley Tucci, when together for a time at SUNY Purchase.

Engaged to Deborah Reed (2000).

Won a Golden Globe in 1998 for best actor in a TV miniseries for his performance in HBO's Don King: Only in America (1997) (TV). At the ceremony Rhames gave his award to Jack Lemmon, saying "I feel that being an artist is about giving, and I'd like to give this to you." Lemmon was clearly touched by the gesture, as was the celebrity audience, who gave Lemmon a standing ovation. Lemmon, who tried unsuccessfully to give the award back to Rhames, said it was "one of the sweetest moments I've ever known in my life." The Hollywood Foreign Press Association announced later that they would have a duplicate award prepared for Rhames.

Step-daughter, Tiffany 15 years old. Daughter, Reignbeau, born 2000. Son, Freedom, born February 2002.

He says people are often surprised that he isn't bigger in person, as he stands only about 6 feet even and weighs a little over 200 pounds. He is, however, quite strong for his size, being able to bench press over 300 pounds.

Daughter is named Reign Beau

Was considered for the role of Ben in Night of the Living Dead (1990). He later starred in Dawn of the Dead (2004)

Invited to join AMPAS in 2006.

Was named after retired NBC journalist Irving R. Levine.