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1. Astin comes from an acting family:
Astin comes from an esteemed acting family. He is the son of acclaimed actress Patty Duke. His adoptive father is John Astin, known for his portrayal of Gomez Addams in The Addams Family television show. His brother, Mackenzie Astin, has an extensive Hollywood resume himself, with more than 90 roles to his credit, including roles on “The Walking Dead,” “Rosewood” and “Scandal.”
2. Acting history:
Astin has more than 120 credits to his name, spanning four decades. His first role was in 1981 in the television movie “Don’t Hit Me, Mom,” playing opposite his mother. Astin has worked in all forms of acting, from films to television to voice over roles for animated series. He is currently the voice of Raphael in the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles animated series.
3. Literacy and mental health advocate:
Astin has been a vocal advocate surrounding issues dealing with literacy and mental health.
His works include the Creative Coalition, National Center for Family Literacy and Los Angeles Valley College’s Patron Association.
After the death of Patty Duke, Astin began a foundation that would look to fund and advocate for mental health awareness.
4. Astin’s political history:
Astin has been actively engaged in politics, appointed to positions by former Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush. Astin served for 10 years as a civilian aide to the Secretary of the Army as well as President Bush’s Council on Service and Civic Participation.
Astin has campaigned for Democratic nominees John Kerry in 2004 and Hillary Clinton in 2012 and 2016.
He also served as campaign manager for Dan Adler during his 2011 special Congressional race.
5. Astin’s father:
When Astin was born, there was controversy surrounding his birth. Duke had been romantically involved with Desi Arnaz Jr., son of Desi Arnaz and Lucille Ball. Duke then married Michael Tell after knowing each other for 13 days.
He grew up believing his father was John Astin, but would be told in his teens that he wasn’t. Astin would then believe his father was Arnaz Jr. Through a paternity test in early 2000s, it was revealed that Michael Tell was his biological father. Astin has told People magazine that he has a relationship with all three men.
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