He gained widespread recognition for his role as Detective Nick Amaro in Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, a performance that truly solidified his presence on television. Before that, he had already begun making a name for himself—particularly through his compelling portrayal of the intense and complex character Armadillo Quintero on The Shield, which served as a major turning point in his career. That role, though dark and challenging, showcased his range and set the stage for future success.
Then came another defining chapter: starring as Detective Scotty Valens in Cold Case from 2003 to 2010. His time on the show not only earned him critical acclaim but also brought him into the homes of loyal viewers week after week, further boosting his fame. It was during these years that he really began to stand out as a dedicated and versatile actor.
Outside of his professional life, he shares a fulfilling personal journey with his wife, Lilly. Together, they are proud parents to two sons—Luca Daniel and Julian Franco—whose presence adds balance and joy to his life. Through each role and every milestone, he has continued to evolve, both on screen and off, proving that his talent runs deep.
He was actually born and raised in Florida, but despite that, he ended up going to school in New York. It wasn’t the most expected path, but it worked out well for him. He often reflects on how different his experience might have been if he’d stayed closer to home, but ultimately, moving to New York shaped a lot of who he is today. He still carries that Florida charm, though—something about the way he speaks or laughs reminds people where he’s from. But yeah, he went to school in New York, and that chapter definitely left its mark.