Stephen Baldwin, known for his role in the Oscar-winning 1995 crime thriller "The Usual Suspects," shared insights into his decision to leave Hollywood despite potential for greater stardom. In an interview, Baldwin, 60, revealed he could have pursued becoming a major star but chose faith over fame.

"I probably could have pointed myself in the direction of becoming a big star," Baldwin told People. However, he added, "I didn't want to be Tom Cruise, and have to make $100 million at the box office. I'd rather be a schmuck from Massapequa."

Baldwin's priorities shifted dramatically after embracing born-again Christianity in 2001. He recounted a prophecy shared by his wife about a Brazilian housekeeper named Augusta, who said God spoke to her predicting that Baldwin and his wife would become born-again Christians and start their own ministry.

He also described his involvement with a skateboarding ministry where tattooed, pierced skateboarders preached evangelistically to crowds of around 5,000 youths drawn by the skateboarding. Baldwin eventually produced a skate video with a Christian message.

Reflecting on his personality, Baldwin said, "I think they thought I act a little too weird." He has also publicly supported President Donald Trump in both the 2016 and 2024 elections.

Entertainment journalist Christina Dugan Ramirez, who has over 15 years of experience including a decade at People magazine, conducted the interview for Fox News Digital.

Sources