Who is Steven John Wilkos?

 

Steven John Wilkos, born on March 9, 1964, is a prominent American television personality known for his roles in law enforcement and entertainment. Raised in Chicago, Illinois, he spent his formative years in the Roscoe Village neighborhood, being the eldest among four siblings. Wilkos' parents, Jeanette and Stanley Wilkos, instilled in him values of service and discipline; his father, a former police officer and army paratrooper in the Korean War, and his mother, a beauty school instructor.

After graduating from Lane Technical High School in 1982, Wilkos embarked on a remarkable

journey. In October of the same year, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, serving across various locations including South Korea, Japan, and stateside posts in Illinois, Virginia, and South Carolina. His tenure in the Marines concluded in March 1989, marking the beginning of another chapter in his life.

Transitioning into civilian life, Wilkos joined the Chicago Police Department in 1990. During his time with the force, he served in different neighborhoods of Chicago, including Logan Square, Humboldt Park, and Near West Side, gaining invaluable experience in law enforcement.

Wilkos' career took an unexpected turn when he became associated with the iconic television show, Jerry Springer, in May 1994. Initially hired as a security guard due to his law enforcement background, he eventually became the director of security for the show. Wilkos' proficiency and dedication led to his retirement from the police force in 2004, as he transitioned to full-time work on Jerry Springer, starting in 2001.

However, Wilkos' talents extended beyond security detail. He ventured into various entertainment avenues, including professional wrestling with Maryland Championship Wrestling during a break in Springer's production. Additionally, he made notable appearances on television shows like Check, Please! and series like Between Brothers and The Wayans Bros. He even had a cameo role in the movie Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me, further showcasing his versatility.

In 2007, Wilkos embarked on his own journey as a talk show host with The Steve Wilkos Show, which has been airing since then. His charisma, integrity, and background in law enforcement have made him a compelling figure in the realm of daytime television. Throughout his career, Wilkos has seamlessly transitioned between roles, leaving an indelible mark on both law enforcement and entertainment spheres.