A native of Massapequa, New York, where he was an outstanding high school wrestler, Baldwin graduated from the State University of New York at Binghamton with a degree in political science. Upon deciding to pursue acting, Baldwin studied the craft in New York for several years before launching his film career with a role in Oliver Stone's "Born on the Fourth of July." Baldwin's acting career now spans a wide range of original and unusual projects.

Despite the demands of an acting career, Baldwin has maintained his social and political activism. In June of 1998, The Creative Coalition (TCC) elected Baldwin its President. TCC was founded by a small group of well-known actors, writers, directors and other arts professionals and is recognized as a persuasive advocate for important social and political causes, promoting effective and positive dialogue on contemporary issues. The New York-based Coalition is a non-partisan, non-profit organization dedicated to educating its membership and the public, and motivating them to act on such issues as diverse as arts advocacy, First Amendment rights, campaign finance reform, the environment, youth outreach and education, health care reform and reproductive rights. It is the leading nonprofit, nonpartisan social and political advocacy organization of the arts and entertainment industry.

Baldwin has also been a strong spokesman for wrestling, serving as Master of Ceremonies and featured speaker at many New York banquets. He was a lead speaker at the Dave Schultz Memorial service in Philadelphia.

Baldwin believes in giving back to his community. He serves on the Board of and is active with:

• Rock the Vote, promoting voter registration and public service
• HELP USA, a homelessness organization in New York City
• Project ALS, helping to find a cure for Lou Gehrig's disease
• The New York City Cultural Advisory Committee
• The Massapequa Fund, provides scholarships to high school seniors
• Carol M. Baldwin Breast Cancer Research Fund