Biografia
Chester Jones III is a celebrated American actor, screenwriter, playwright, author, director, film and TV producer, and model. His work spans feature films, television series, and Broadway and Off-Broadway productions. Growing up in Racine, Wisconsin, he developed a passion for film and television inspired by his educator parents, who introduced him to classic films and music.
In 2003, Chester relocated to New York City and quickly began working in commercials, small theater productions, and supporting roles on primetime and daytime TV. He was initially cast as an understudy in "Jerry Roebuck's Harlem Coffee Shop" at the Beacon Theater, NY, but by the end of rehearsals secured three roles—including one lead and two supporting—performing all during the show's run. Known for his readiness and adaptability, he handled last-minute changes effortlessly. Building on this confidence, he performed in numerous contemporary and classical theater productions across New York City and regional tours, including "Romeo and Juliet," "Hamlet," and "The Mousetrap."
Chester transitioned to feature films with a variety of supporting roles showcasing his versatility—from a loyal friend to a calculating executive, a bewildered robber, and a charming ladies' man. His screen presence stood out, leading to progressively larger roles. In 2004, he starred as the lead in Chris Jun's "The Main Character," earning critical acclaim and a Best Dramatic Actor nomination at the 2005 New York International Independent Film and Video Festival.
In 2005, he wrote, produced, directed, and starred in his first short film, "Mine: A Possession Parable," which became a finalist at the San Francisco Black Film Festival and screened at Oakland’s "Margaritas and a Movie" series.
By 2007, Chester had created his first feature film, "Hey Diddle Diddle," about a former "Mr. Popular" battling Social Anxiety Disorder. To portray the lead, Maxwell Sweetwater, he gained over 40 pounds with ease. The film received praise, notably from indie film publication Film Threat, and was an Audience Award finalist at the 2009 Hollywood Black Film Festival and a Voice Award nominee. Chester later adapted the film into a nine-part mini-series, securing international broadcasts on Fetch TV (Europe), CaribVision (Caribbean and Cuba), and Punch TV (USA), reaching 50 million households domestically.
Amid numerous primetime TV appearances, Chester won Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama at the 2014 LAWeb Fest for his role in the web series Parallels.
In late 2015, he founded The Dream Network (Dream TV), a national multicultural television network currently reaching 32 million households via DirecTV, Roku, and local affiliates across the USA and Bahamas.
In 2017, his screenplay "Harlem Heat" won Best Screenplay at the Newark International Film Festival.
Presently, Chester is authoring a graphic novel and developing a television series for STARZ as producer and co-writer. He also serves as creator and producer of the popular podcast "Bruthas on Tennis." Beyond his creative pursuits, he enjoys music, travel, good food, and meaningful connections, striving to be his best self and contribute positively to humanity.
He is a proud member of SAG-AFTRA, Actors’ Equity Association (AEA), and the Writers Guild of America (WGA).
