Born Esteban Ernesto Echevarria in Havana, Cuba, the son of Lillian, a schoolteacher, and Esteban Echevarria, a pilot who worked for Cubana Airlines until the Castro Revolution. Steven's maternal grandparents were Jewish refugees from Germany and his stage surname comes from his maternal great-grandmother.

Originally intended to become a musician but turned to acting while attending Miami-Dade Community College. He then transferred to Theater Arts Department of the University of Miami.

Was the original choice for the lead role of "Kingpin" (2003) (mini). He was replaced by Bobby Canavale at the last minute.

Has two sons. Alexander Bauer (b. 1985) with Griffith and Dylan (b. 1990) by his second marriage.

He is a graduate of Coral Park High School in Miami, Florida.

His parents immigrated to southern Florida, in 1960, when Steven was three years old.

In the early 1980s he moved to New York City and studied under famed acting guru Stella Adler, appearing on stage in occasional productions.

Bauer is his mother's maiden name.

His big film break came with the substantial role of Manolo Ribera in Scarface (1983) even though he was a relatively unknown actor at the time. The producers were convinced that he was right for the role based on his strong audition, as well as his authentic Cuban background. His performance drew a Golden Globe nomination for Best Supporting Actor.

Attended the University of Miami, where he was something of a heartthrob on campus. In the School of Drama's Ring Theater, he played such roles as Lennie in "Of Mice and Men."

Son, Alexander