Mark Alan Dacascos
- Born:
- February 26, 1964, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
- Nationality:
- American
- Profession(s):
- Actor, Martial Artist, Martial Arts Instructor
Early Life and Education
- Born to martial arts instructors Al Dacascos and Moriko McVey-Murray.
- Inherited a strong martial arts background, training in various styles including Wun Hop Kuen Do, Kung Fu, Karate, Judo, Jujutsu, and Muay Thai.
- Competed extensively in martial arts tournaments during his youth.
Career and Major Achievements
- Began his acting career in the early 1990s, primarily in action films.
- Gained recognition for his martial arts skills and screen presence.
- His involvement in films such as "Only the Strong" and "Crying Freeman" established him as a prominent action star.
- Starred in "Brotherhood of the Wolf," a successful French martial arts film.
- Hosted the Food Network's "Iron Chef America" from 2005 to 2017.
- Portrayed notable villain roles in television series such as "Hawaii Five-0" and "Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D."
- The film "Kickboxer 5", starring Mark Dacascos, further cemented his place in the martial arts film genre.
Notable Works
Filmography
| Year | Title | Role |
| 1991 | Only the Strong | Louis Stevens |
| 1995 | Kickboxer 5 | Matt Reeves |
| 1995 | Crying Freeman | Yo Hinomura / Freeman |
| 2001 | Brotherhood of the Wolf | Mani |
Television
| Year | Title | Role |
| 2005-2017 | Iron Chef America | Chairman |
| 2010-2019 | Hawaii Five-0 | Wo Fat |
Legacy and Impact
Mark Dacascos has established himself as a prominent figure in martial arts cinema and television, known for his athleticism, martial arts expertise, and acting versatility. His performances have contributed significantly to the popularity of action films and martial arts on screen. His hosting role on Iron Chef America demonstrated his broader appeal beyond the action genre.