Martin Sheen: Six Decades of Artistry and Activism Celebrated with Prestigious Peace Award

A Legacy of Art and Activism

Ramón Gerard Antonio Estévez, professionally known as Martin Sheen, is an American actor whose work spans over six decades of television and film, earning him three Emmy Awards, a Golden Globe Award, and four Screen Actors Guild Awards.

The acclaimed actor is being recognized for his lifelong commitment to peace, justice, and nuclear disarmament. His remarkable career has seamlessly balanced acclaimed acting roles in film and television—including Apocalypse Now and The West Wing—with a deep dedication to activism. Throughout his journey, Sheen has been arrested more than 60 times for nonviolent protest and has consistently spoken out against nuclear weapons, climate inaction, and social injustice.

Upcoming Honor

The Nuclear Age Peace Foundation (NAPF) will host its 38th Evening for Peace on Friday, September 26, 2025, at the Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort. At this prestigious event, Sheen will be honored with the Daniel Ellsberg Lifetime Achievement Award. The ceremony will coincide with the celebration of the International Day for Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons, recognized yearly by the United Nations.

Current Activities and Impact

Throughout his career, Sheen has maintained a deep personal commitment to activism alongside his mainstream success. With a strong belief in nonviolence, he has been a leading voice for nuclear disarmament. His dedication is evidenced by his participation in protests at the Nevada Test Site, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Vandenberg Air Force Base, and other nuclear weapons facilities, often engaging in nonviolent civil disobedience. His commitment has led to over 60 arrests in connection with peace demonstrations.

In a powerful testament to his dedication, Sheen first spoke to 18,000 young student activists at Free The Children’s 2010 We Day, where he famously stated, “While acting is what I do for a living, activism is what I do to stay alive.”

Looking Forward

As Dr. Ivana Nikolić Hughes, President of NAPF, noted, “Adding Martin Sheen to our long list of honorees is both humbling and inspiring. They represent the courage, compassion, and vision needed to advance a world free of nuclear weapons.” The Evening for Peace will include a reception at 5:30 p.m. and dinner program from 6:30-8:30 p.m., with proceeds supporting NAPF’s global advocacy, youth leadership, and United Nations initiatives on nuclear disarmament.