Mark "Rat" Ratner
Brian Backer
Born on December 5, 1956, Brian Backer began his acting career in the theatre, winning notable awards including the 1981 Tony Award for Best Performance by a Featured Actor in a Play and the Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Featured Actor in a Play. He also received the Theatre World Award for his portrayal of an Allen-like protagonist in Woody Allen's The Floating Light Bulb. This award-winning performance showcased his ability to play complex characters, setting the stage for his future success in film and television. Backer's breakthrough in the entertainment industry came when he played the role of Mark "Rat" Ratner in the 1982 comedy film Fast Times at Ridgemont High, followed by roles in films like Moving Violations and Police Academy 4: Citizens on Patrol.