Joe Lara, born William Joseph Lara on February 10, 1962, in San Diego, California, had a passion for performance from a young age. Growing up in San Diego, he was involved in local theater productions and school plays, honing his acting skills long before he made his cinematic debut.
Lara's big break came in 1988 when he made his cinematic debut in the horror/war movie Night Wars. His talent and dedication to his craft quickly caught the attention of casting directors, leading to numerous on-screen acting roles throughout his career.
One of Lara's most recognizable roles was playing the title character in the mid-1990s series Tarzan: The Epic Adventures. He brought the iconic jungle hero to life on screen, captivating audiences with his portrayal of Tarzan. Lara also starred in the made-for-TV movie Tarzan in Manhattan, further solidifying his status as a versatile actor.
In addition to his work in the Tarzan series, Lara appeared in action movies such as Steel Frontier and American Cyborg: Steel Warrior. His dynamic performances in these films showcased his range as an actor and solidified his reputation as a talented action star.
Outside of his acting career, Lara was a devoted husband to his wife Gwen Shamblin. The couple shared a deep bond and supported each other in their respective pursuits. In the early 2000s, Lara made the bold decision to shift his focus from acting to pursuing his dream of becoming a country musician.
Despite stepping away from the limelight, Lara's passion for entertainment continued to drive him as he explored new avenues for artistic expression. His final on-screen role was playing the character Soap Opera Actor in the movie Summer of '67, released in 2018.
Joe Lara's legacy as an actor and performer lives on through his extensive body of work. With over 25 on-screen acting roles to his name, Lara made a significant impact on the entertainment industry during his career.
His dedication to his craft and his willingness to take risks in pursuit of his dreams serve as inspiration to aspiring artists everywhere. Though his time in the spotlight may have come to an end, Joe Lara's contributions to film and television remain a testament to his talent and passion for storytelling.