Judd Asher Nelson was born on November 28, 1959, in Portland, Maine, to Leonard Nelson, an attorney, and his wife, Merle Nelson, an attorney and state assemblywoman. Nelson's early life was marked by a strong educational foundation, as he attended St. Paul's preparatory school in Concord, New Hampshire, before majoring in philosophy at the prestigious Haverford College in Haverford, Pennsylvania.
It was during his time at Haverford College that Nelson discovered his passion for acting. He was initially obliged to audition for a friend's role, but his impressive performance earned him the part. This early success sparked a desire to pursue a career in acting, and Nelson began to focus on his craft.
After graduating from college, Nelson moved to New York City and enrolled in the Stella Adler Conservatory. His early film roles included Making the Grade (1984),where he played the street-smart Eddie Keaton, and Fandango (1985),in which he portrayed the stodgy ROTC cadet, Phil Hicks.
Nelson's breakthrough roles came with the Brat Pack films The Breakfast Club (1985) and St. Elmo's Fire (1985). His portrayal of the intense and brooding characters in these films showcased his range as an actor and cemented his status as a rising star.
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Nelson appeared in a wide range of films, including Billionaire Boys Club (1987),From the Hip (1987),and New Jack City (1991). His performances were marked by his intense stare and dark, smoldering looks, which added a sense of danger and unpredictability to his characters.
Despite his early success, Nelson's career has been peppered with under-promoted films and poorly written television appearances. Critics have been somewhat harsh in their assessment of his work, and Nelson has been labeled as a misunderstood actor.
In recent years, Nelson has continued to work in film and television, albeit at a slower pace. While his career may not have reached the same heights as some of his contemporaries, Nelson remains a talented and dedicated actor who has made a lasting impact on the entertainment industry.
