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Date of birth (location)
February 25, 1971
Santa Monica, California, USA
Mini-Biography:
Sean Patrick Astin was born February 25, 1971 in Santa Monica, California to John Astin (famous for playing Gomez on "The Addams Family" among other things) and Patty Duke, both actors. He was their first child, but when Sean was two his brother Mackenzie was born (he would also become an actor). They also have three older half brothers, David, Allen and Tom, who belong to their father. Sean was literally brought up on acting due to his famous parents. Sean attended Crossroads High School for the Arts. He has also studied with the famous Stella Adler. He directed and co-produced the short film 'Kangaroo Court' which was nominated in the Best Short Film category at the 67th Annual Academy Awards in 1995. Interestingly enough, Sean's father was nominated for the same award in 1969. Sean is now married to Christine Astin, who co-produced 'Kangaroo Court' with him. The couple live in Los Angeles.
Interesting Facts:
Daughter born: Alexandra Louise [27 November 1996]
Left the room halfway during recording DVD commentary for Goonies, The (1985) and never returned.
His biological father is actually Michael Tell, whom Patty Duke was married to for only a month in 1970. Sean was adopted at age 3 by John Astin, but considers both men to be his father.
Graduated from UCLA with honors & a B.A. in History & English.
On 4 December 2001, Sean had his image as 'Samwise Gamgee' immortalized on a 90 cent New Zealand postage stamp that he shares with Lord of the Rings co-star Elijah Wood ('Frodo Baggins'). However, Sean's last name is spelled incorrectly on the presentation pack of the stamps (Austin instead of Astin).
August 6 2002, welcomed second child daughter Elizabeth Louise.
During principal photography for the Lord of the Rings trilogy, Astin directed trilogy director Peter Jackson and fellow cast members in a documentary short about comraderie and friendship within difficult working environments. This topic mirrored a significant theme of the trilogy.
Had to gain a lot of weight for his role of Samwise 'Sam' Gamgee in the Lord of the Rings trilogy.