Michael Cudlitz is an American actor and director, best known for his roles in television series. He gained widespread recognition for portraying Abraham Ford in the popular series The Walking Dead, where he showcased his talent in a post-apocalyptic setting. Cudlitz has also appeared in the police drama Southland, playing the character John Cooper, which earned him critical acclaim. In addition to his acting career, Cudlitz has directed several episodes of various television shows. He was born on December 29, 1973, in Long Beach, California, and studied at California State University, Long Beach. His diverse roles and contributions to the entertainment industry have made him a respected figure in Hollywood.