Born on Christmas night at Union Hospital in the Bronx (NYC), Franke was bitten by the acting bug at a very early age. While attending P.S. 33 and 83 he was cast in several school productions and won a variety of class awards for his writing. By the time he reached High School, Franke was ... more >

Born on Christmas night at Union Hospital in the Bronx (NYC), Franke was bitten by the acting bug at a very early age. While attending P.S. 33 and 83 he was cast in several school productions and won a variety of class awards for his writing. By the time he reached High School, Franke was not only an honor student, but also studied martial arts (Karate) and was on the school track team. It was during that time when he and a friend formed a heavy metal band called Kruciform. With Franke as the lead guitarist, Kruciform played at various clubs throughout the New York City area. With their unique brand of heavy metal, Kruciform attained some local success during their 5 years together. But when contract negotiations with a record label broke down, Franke decided to change directions and enlisted in the U.S. Navy. While stationed at Naval Air Station Miramar, in San Diego California, Franke served his entire 4 years as an Aircraft Weapons Systems Specialist. In his free time, Franke was a member of the Armed Forces Aero Club where he earned his license as an FAA Certified Private Pilot. After his enlistment, Franke remained in San Diego, earned his degree in Robotics, resumed his study of martial arts (Kung Fu) and began a career in Computers. One day, while out having lunch with a friend, Franke came across the registration table for a well known Model & Talent School. Always being one to challenge himself, Franke decided to return to the artistic province he had left, and began to study acting. Since that time, he has performed, produced and directed in a multitude of independent & commercial projects, and he continues to study & improve his art today. < less