Both of his parents are United Methodist ministers
Was waiting to audition for the Broadway musical Rent when a casting agent asked him to try out for the 1998 indie Three Below Zero
His breakthrough role in 1999's American Beauty won him widespread acclaim as well as SAG and BAFTA nods, the Chicago Film Critics Association Award and a National Board of Review Award
Awards
2000BAFTA Film Awards-Best Actor in a Supporting Role:nominated
1999Screen Actors Guild Awards-Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture:winner
1999National Board of Review-Best Breakthrough Performance by an Actor:winner
1999Chicago Film Critics Association-Most Promising Actor:winner