Last updated on: November 14, 2025
Len Wiseman is an American film director, screenwriter, and producer. He is best known for directing the Underworld movies, Live Free or Die Hard, and the 2012 Total Recall remake. His sharp action style, dark visuals, and creative storytelling made him a well-known name in Hollywood. Many people also know him because of his marriage to British actress Kate Beckinsale. Their relationship drew attention for many years and remains a major part of his public life.
Quick Facts About Len Wiseman
| Full Name | Len Ryan Wiseman |
| Birthdate | March 4, 1973 |
| Age
Height |
52 years and 9 months old
1.82 m |
| Occupation | Film Director, Screenwriter, Producer |
| Husband/Wife | Ex-Wife: Kate Beckinsale (2004–2019) Previous Wife: Dana (divorced 2003) Current Partner: Engaged to CJ Franco (2023) |
| Education | De Anza College (Film & TV Production) |
| Parents | Loren Wiseman, Janice Wiseman |
| Siblings | Not known |
| Children | None |
| Net Worth | Approx. $20 million |
Early Life and Education
Len Wiseman was born in California on March 4, 1973. He grew up with a strong interest in movies. During his teenage years, he liked to draw, enjoyed cameras, and also everything related to filming. This early interest pushed him toward the entertainment world.
He attended De Anza College after high school to study film and television production. This helped him in learning how movies were made right from the beginning to the end. His training also gave him the skills he used in big film projects later on.
Early Career and Breakthrough
Before he became a director, Len worked as a property assistant on several blockbuster films. These included movies like Independence Day and Men in Black. Working behind the scenes helped him understand how large film sets operate. It also gave him the experience he needed when it came time to direct his movies.
Len’s major break came in 2003 when he helmed Underworld. It combined vampires, werewolves, and action in a contemporary milieu. Audiences liked the new feel, and the film proved to be a success. He then directed the sequel entitled Underworld: Evolution in 2006. The series then expanded into a franchise of films, and Len continued with the series as a writer and producer.
Later, he directed Live Free or Die Hard, which went on to become quite a hit. His film Total Recall in 2012 reflected his fascination with tales of the future and special effects. His other works include television series such as Sleepy Hollow, Hawaii Five-0, and Lucifer.
Meeting Kate Beckinsale
Len Wiseman met Kate Beckinsale in 2003 on the set of the first Underworld movie. They struck up a friendship over their time on set together. At the time, Len was married to Dana, a schoolteacher. Kate was in a long relationship with actor Michael Sheen, with whom she shares her daughter Lily Mo Sheen.
By the end of that year, Len had divorced Dana. Kate had also parted ways with Michael Sheen. It wasn’t very long before Len and Kate began dating. Their relationship went public, exciting fans and the media alike.
Marriage and Relationship
Len Wiseman and Kate Beckinsale married in Bel-Air, Los Angeles on May 9, 2004. The two could regularly be seen attending events and giving interviews in support of each other’s projects. The marriage lasted over eleven years. They were considered a creative couple as well because Kate had the lead in several movies where Len was producer or director.
Separation and Divorce
After many years together, the couple in 2015 separated. Len filed for divorce in October 2016, citing “irreconcilable differences.” Both of them agreed to waive spousal support. Their divorce was finalized in 2019. Even after ending their marriage, they stayed friendly and respectful. They were sometimes seen together in Los Angeles and shared positive comments about each other. Their busy careers were said to be a major reason for the split, not conflict.
READ ALSO: Kate Beckinsale Net worth, Age, Boyfriend, Family, Facts & More
Life After the Divorce
Len Wiseman continued to direct and produce films and television series. His career remained busy, and he was involved in numerous high-profile projects. In 2023, he became engaged to CJ Franco, an actress and model. The news went public in July 2023. By 2025, they were still engaged and frequently seen together at events. Len Wiseman’s career path demonstrates his enthusiasm for cinema, his commitment to action and fantasy genres, and his consistent involvement in Hollywood. Even though people primarily knew him through his marriage to Kate Beckinsale, his work stood out independently.
