Jean-Claude Van Damme

Jean-Claude Camille François Van Varenberg, known professionally as Jean-Claude Van Damme, is a Belgian martial artist, actor, film producer and director. Born and raised in Brussels, he began training in martial arts at the age of ten. Over time, he achieved the rank of 2nd-dan black belt in karate and won several karate and kickboxing competitions. His success in martial arts propelled him into an acting career in Hollywood. His big break came in the martial arts action film, Bloodsport, in 1988. He went on to star in many successful action films, including Universal Soldier, Hard Target, Timecop, and Street Fighter. The Expendables 2 marked his big return to the action genre. Known as an icon of action and martial arts cinema, his films have grossed over $1 billion worldwide. Beyond his film career, he has publicly supported various conservationist causes.

Van Damme was at the height of his career in the 1990s and early 2000s. However, he faced some personal challenges, including a cocaine addiction. He was arrested for driving under the influence in 1999 and in 1998, he was diagnosed with bipolar disorder and began taking medication for the condition. Through all this, he continued to work in films, making a significant career comeback with the film JCVD in 2008. Van Damme continues to act in films and do extensive voice work. His most recent works include the acclaimed crime drama JCVD, The Expendables 2, Enemies Closer, The Bouncer, Kickboxer: Retaliation, Minions: The Rise of Gru, and Darkness of Man.