Mark Hamill was born in Oakland, California on September 25, 1951, the fourth child of seven. His father's military career meant that the Hamill family moved frequently during Mark's childhood; after his graduation from Japan's Yokohama High School, Mark headed to Los Angeles City College, where he majored in theater arts.

He made his television debut in 1970 with a minor role on "The Bill Cosby Show." It was to be the first of many TV appearances for the young actor, but his big break came several years later when he landed the unforgettable role of Luke Skywalker in Star Wars (1977).

A car accident in early 1977 did extensive damage to Hamill's face, and the actor underwent reconstructive surgery prior to filming The Empire Strikes Back. He has nevertheless had a successful acting career; he went on to star in such films as Corvette Summer (1978), The Big Red One (1980), and The Night the Lights Went Out in Georgia (1981). After the release of Return of the Jedi (1983), he turned his attention to theater. He starred in a number of plays, among them "Amadeus" and "The Elephant Man," before focusing on voice work. He has since lent his talents to countless animated productions, notably "Batman: The Animated Series," and Star Wars fans were particularly delighted with his recent guest appearance on "The Simpsons."

Hamill married Marilou York in 1978. They have three children.