A gifted actor with old-fashioned matinee-idol looks, Antonio Banderas smoldered his way to an international following with his sly send-ups of Latin machismo in the films of fellow Spaniard Pedro Almodovar. Born on August 10, 1960 in Malaga, Spain, Banderas actor set out to be a professional soccer player. But when a foot injury sidetracked his plans, Banderas turned his attention to the stage, completing his studies at Malaga's School of Dramatic Art before embarking upon a five-year stint with the prestigious National Theater of Spain, where he quickly caught the eye of Almodovar. He made
Began career working with independent theater company in home town of Malaga at age 14, having abandoned dreams of playing professional soccer after breaking foot
Formed theater troupe and traveled around southern Spain in an old truck putting on street productions
1980
Moved to Madrid; worked as a waiter and department store clerk while trying to get acting jobs (date approximate)
1981
Worked for five years as an ensemble member of Spain's National Theater
