Short Biography

Background:

Multi-talented entertainer David Hasselhoff drew the attention of the public while playing the character of Dr. William `Snapper` Foster in CBS`s soap opera The Young and the Restless (1975-1982). He gained even more notice for his portrayal as crime fighter Michael Knight in the fantasy action series Knight Rider (1982). Hasselhoff`s outstanding performance awarded him with a People`s Choice Award for Favorite Male Performer in 1983. He also gained worldwide fame after playing chief lifeguard Mitch Buchannon in Baywatch (1989-2000).

Not only famous for his acting, Hasselhoff is also popular for his singing. His first album, "Looking for Freedom," became number one on the German charts and received gold and triple platinum certification in Europe. He then was named Most Popular and Best Selling Artist of the Year in Germany.

Off screen, and once listed as one of TV`s Ten Most Powerful Stars by TV Guide and Most Watched TV Star by the Guinness Book of World Records, Hasselhoff made headlines for a drinking problem for which he entered a rehabilitation program at the Betty Ford Center in 2002. However, his problems with alcohol abuse apparently continued and he was arrested on June 5, 2004, on suspicion of driving while intoxicated.

Hasselhoff currently gives support to charity activities like spending time visiting children`s hospitals throughout the world, working with terminally ill and handicapped children in America at Race For Life, and is active with the Starlight Children`s Foundation and the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

The Hoff

Childhood and Family:

Baltimore, Maryland native actor and musician David Michael Hasselhoff was born on July 17, 1952. The only son to Joe Hasselhoff (retired Brinks Security executive) and Dolores Hasselhoff (homemaker), David, whose nickname is The Hoff, has four sisters: Diane (born on May 19, 1950), Joyce (born July 1, 1954), Jean (born March 7, 1956) and Lisa (born on July 5,1968).

David discovered his interest in acting when he was seven and began taking acting, singing and dance lessons. Upon graduating from La Grange High School, he continued to study at the Academy Of Dramatic Arts in Chicago. David also studied acting at the California Institute of the Arts in Valencia, California. During his time at school, David worked as a waiter and gas station attendant.

As for his private life, David married actress Catherine Hickland in 1984, but they divorced in 1988. He is now the husband of actress Pamela Bach (born on October 16, 1963) and the father of two daughters, Taylor Ann (born 1990) and Hayley Amber (born 1993). In his off time, 6` 4" inch tall David likes such outdoors sports as scuba diving, hiking, white water rafting, tennis, jogging and parachute jumping. He is also a passionate sports supporter and enjoys traveling.

Knight Rider

Career:

Formerly intending to begin a professional career in musical theater, David Hasselhoff had a chance to start his acting career on the small screen. After working in TV commercials and having an unaccredited part in Police Story, Hasselhoff attracted public attention when he played the role of Dr. William `Snapper` Foster in CBS`s soap opera The Young and the Restless (1975-1982). Though the fans at first did not accept him (he replaced an actor who demanded a too-high salary), Hasselhoff finally got a permanent part in the show and became one of the most popular le

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