Mark Wahlberg - Producer

It is not uncommon for an actor on a strong sitcom to direct an episode or two during its run. Equally common is for a series star to inherit a “producer” title as part of a contract renewal.

And then there is the real deal.

We all know actor Mark Wahlberg from films such as Boogie Nights, Three Kings and The Perfect Storm. One of Hollywood’s elite leading men, the ageless thespian has carved a career out of diverse projects and eclectic roles. If one were to look further down the credits, though, past the marquee … he might be shocked.

As a Producer, Wahlberg has been the force behind such television giants as Entourage and the recent HBO acclaimed smash Boardwalk Empire. In film, he has produced the critical gem The Fighter, as well as We Own the Night and the upcoming Contraband. For Mark Wahlberg, the change of pace is a good thing. In Tinseltown, where even the most in-demand players have minimal control over a script’s vision, the role of producer has allowed him to break free from creative chains. When working with Director David O. Russell on The Fighter, he learned about the personal connection to a project (and its sometimes overzealous trappings) first hand.

“I was really only a producer on this for the sheer desperation that I wanted to see the story get made. This time, I was so close to that world, it was a different dynamic. But I've promised him (Russell) that I will not do that again. I promised him that our next collaboration would be back to me saying, "Yes, sir," "No, sir," where I would be there strictly to service his vision.”

After the unexpected success of his productions, Wahlberg finds himself in a strange place. With several more television and film vehicles in the future with his name attached to it as a producer (Entourage film included), he still serves two masters; his career as a leading man is still very much in full-swing. His take? Why not do both. He is pegged to produce and star in When Corruption was King and the remake of Billy Jack in the near future.

His career has always been a miracle to start with, a troubled Bostonian who was set on the wrong path before a few twists and turns steered him right. As implausible as his run as an actor has been, he has parlayed bit roles and cameos into superstardom. Now, it appears, when the Superman abdominals and the brooding youthful face vanish with time (he once guaranteed retirement at 40), the incredible journey of Mark Wahlberg will continue behind the camera. In some ways, it is Wahlberg at his most natural. Then again, maybe he will do both-he has surprised us before.