Lorenzo Lamas, an actor widely recognized for his roles in television classics like Falcon Crest and the movie sensation Grease, has led a life filled with ups and downs. Born into a showbiz family in Santa Monica, California, Lorenzo’s destiny as an actor seemed inevitable. As the son of American actress Arlene Dahl and Argentinian actor and director Fernando Lamas, he was surrounded by the glitz and glamour of the industry from a young age.
Growing up in the fashionable area of Pacific Palisades, Lorenzo’s parents divorced when he was just two years old. At the tender age of ten, he moved to New York with his father. Throughout his upbringing, Lorenzo drew inspiration from his father’s larger-than-life persona and his diverse cultural background. His father’s voice, reminiscent of Dracula, influenced Lorenzo’s performance when he played the iconic character in a Halloween production.
While transitioning from childhood to adolescence, Lorenzo’s father lived a flamboyant lifestyle. Despite his father’s many flaws, Lorenzo idolized him. He described his father as judgmental and traditional in his views on gender roles, believing a woman’s place was in the kitchen. Nonetheless, Lorenzo admired his father’s commanding presence and the wealth of experience he possessed.
Though his relationship with his father had its challenges, Lorenzo’s passion for acting prevailed. Encouraged by his father, Lorenzo enrolled at Tony Barr’s Film Actors Workshop in California. He received his first minor television role in the show Switch in 1977. Alongside honing his acting skills, Lorenzo developed a keen interest in martial arts, earning black belts in both taekwondo and karate.
In a stroke of luck, Lorenzo landed the role of “Tom Chisum” in the iconic film Grease in 1978. Originally not chosen for the part, Lorenzo ultimately won the role when another actor backed out due to nerves. Starring alongside John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John, he played the character Sandy’s boyfriend. The experience was a dream come true for Lorenzo, who had idolized Olivia Newton-John since his childhood.
One of Lorenzo’s career highlights came in 1981 when he was cast as Lance Cumson in the immensely popular nighttime soap opera Falcon Crest. Starring alongside Jane Wyman, Lorenzo portrayed this character for 228 episodes over nine years. Despite the show’s success, Lorenzo faced challenges with his lines during filming. However, Jane Wyman’s guidance and tough love motivated him to improve his performance.
Following the conclusion of Falcon Crest, Lorenzo found further success in the drama series Renegade, where he played Reno Raines. This role allowed him to showcase his love for motorcycles, as he had already been an avid rider before the show. Lorenzo’s creative input and connection to the character made Renegade a career pinnacle for him. He considered himself fortunate to have found a role that resonated with both him and the audience.
Beyond his acting career, Lorenzo pursued his passion for flying. He obtained licenses as a helicopter flight instructor and airplane pilot. His love for flying merged with his compassionate side when he joined the charitable organization Angel Flight. Through this organization, Lorenzo and other pilots donate their planes and time to provide free medical transportation to those in need.
Lorenzo’s personal life hasn’t been without its challenges. Despite his many marriages and wild lifestyle in the 1980s and 1990s, the most devastating event for him was when he discovered that his ex-wife, Shauna Sand, had an affair with his son, AJ Lamas. The incident deeply affected Lorenzo, straining his relationship with his son. Despite the pain, Lorenzo still loves his son and acknowledges that both parties bear responsibility for their estranged connection.
Through all the highs and lows, Lorenzo has persevered. His last marriage ended in 2018, but he recently got engaged to model entrepreneur Kenna Scott. Today, he has a large family that supports him. Lorenzo continues to work as an actor and currently has a net worth of approximately $2 million.
In December 2021, Lorenzo experienced significant grief with the passing of his mother, Arlene Dahl. He fondly remembered her as a positive influence in his life, praising her laughter, joy, and forgiveness. Despite the hardships, Lorenzo remains grateful for the experiences, and he cherishes the close bond he formed with his mother in his adult life.
Lorenzo Lamas’s life has been a rollercoaster ride, filled with remarkable highs and challenging lows. His performances in Falcon Crest and Renegade have solidified his place in television folklore. Today, we are glad to see that he is thriving and has a loving family to support him. Let’s share the inspiring journey of Lorenzo Lamas with our friends and family on Facebook!
