Born in the Bronx, New York

At age 10, moved to Syosset, Long Island

Was a member of the rock band Mute from junior high school to three months before he won his role in "Rent"

Created role of HIV-infected punk rocker Roger in the New York Theater Workshop production of "Rent"

Reprised role of Roger in Off-Broadway and Broadway productions of "Rent"; won an OBIE Award for his performance; nominated for a Tony Award as Actor in a Musical

Reprised role of Roger in the West End production of "Rent"

Film debut in bit part in the inane comedy "SLC Punk!"; screened at Sundance

Starred as Egyptian warrior Ramades in Elton John and Tim Rice's Broadway musical "Aida" (at one time called "Elaborate Lives: The Story of Aida")

Co-produced the hit Off-Broadway play "Fully Committed" at the Cherry Lane Theatre

Released first solo album "Model Prisoner" (Sh-K-Boom Records); featured 12 original rock songs

Reprised his original Broadway role of the HIV-positive struggling musician Roger in the big screen adaptation of "Rent"