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Hispanic/American actor Benito Martinez began his career performing in his father's mariachi band at age nine, and he studied acting and music at the bilingual repertory theater 'LA Compania,' which was founded by his mother. Benito graduated from Hollywood High School Performing Arts Center, and he went on to study at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Arts. He first became known for his roles as young Paco in the independent film "Mi Famila" and as Dr. Julio Ruiz in the sci-fi thriller "Outbreak." This led to major parts in the movies "New Suit," "Saw," and "Million Dollar Baby," and he also made guest appearances on the television shows "American Family," "The X Files," "Touched By an Angel" and "NYPD Blue." However, Benito is most famous for his role as Captain David Aceveda on the FX police drama "The Shield."

Hispanic-American character player Benito Martinez evinced laudable diversity, both in his choice of acting mediums and in his choice of genres. A New Mexico native, Martinez moved to Southern California as a youth and enrolled in the famous Hollywood High's Performing Arts Magnet, then opted to pursue theatrical work in lieu of film and moved to England after graduation. In that locale, Martinez studied at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art and received classical training, professionally exercised in such venues as Joseph Papp's Public Theater, the World Shakespeare Theater Festival, and the Arizona Theater Company.

Martinez returned to America and commenced film work in the early 2000s, with guest-starring roles on series programs including American Family, Monk, Numb3rs, and NYPD Blue. He developed his most enduring reputation, however, with an ongoing, multiseason portrayal of the scheming and manipulative Councilman Aceveda on FX network's smash cop drama The Shield. The actor remained with the program from the beginning of its run (ca. 2002) through its final season (2008-2009). His résumé also includes supporting roles in such feature outings as the slasher opus Saw (2004) and the inspirational sports drama Million Dollar Baby (2004). Nathan Southern, All Movie Guide

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