Biography
Monte James is a Los Angeles-based American actor known for grounded, authoritative performances in gritty dramas, psychological thrillers, and character-driven storytelling. He is frequently cast as blue-collar professionals, law enforcement, and men under pressure-characters defined by restraint, consequence, and lived-in realism.
James delivered a leading performance as Tony Davis in The Miracle of Tony Davis and the feature film I Forgive, portraying a man who survives multiple gunshot wounds and confronts a life-altering spiritual reckoning. The project also marked his collaboration with Academy Award winner Louis Gossett Jr. His film credits include Officer Keith White in John Henry, Officer Cruz in the thriller Psychos, and Detective Guinness in the psychological thriller The Window, further establishing his presence in tense, authority-driven narratives.
On television, James starred as Charlie Hawkins, the lead character in Living with Uncle Charlie, portraying an out-of-work, one-hit-wonder comedian navigating adulthood while raising his twin nephews-raising the question of who is truly raising whom. He also appeared as a slick, scheming Mechanic in the Apple TV+ series Platonic, working alongside Seth Rogen and Academy Award nominee Rose Byrne, showcasing a sharper, more manipulative edge within a grounded comedic role.
James won Best Supporting Actor at the 168 Film Festival for his performance as Carl in Opposite Actions, highlighting his ability to deliver emotionally grounded, scene-elevating work.
A Los Angeles native, James brings a disciplined, authentic edge to his performances, informed by decades of real-world experience as a professional firefighter. At his core, he portrays men who carry responsibility quietly-steady under pressure, layered with humanity, and believable when it matters most.
