December 27, 2004
Oscar-winning filmmaker and actor Billy Bob Thornton, star of the new film Friday Night Lights, discusses the lasting impact of his Arkansas upbringing.
Billy Bob Thornton
Academy Award-winner Billy Bob Thornton is a writer, actor, director and musician. He's come a long way from his poor childhood in Arkansas. Thornton's passion for rock and roll took him to New York, playing drums and singing in a band. In '81, he moved to L.A. to pursue acting and writing. For years, he couldn't sell his scripts, but kept at it. The success of the low-budget, indie drama, Sling Blade, established Thornton as a major writing and acting talent. His latest project is the feature film remake of Bad News Bears.

