Biography
James began his career in the 1990s in New York City, working in television and regional theatre. In 2000, he moved to Los Angeles, where he steadily worked as an actor and filmmaker. At the end of 2020, during the Covid-19 pandemic, he relocated to Melbourne, Australia. Throughout his career as an actor and director, he founded the Hollywood Actor Lab, a studio offering training and career guidance to hundreds of actors through classes, filmmaking, and photography. In Australia, he continues his acting career spanning over three decades, appearing in film, television, commercials, print modeling, and voice-over work.
Born and raised in New York City, James attended high school and college in New Jersey. He captained his high school varsity football team, played lacrosse, wrestled, and trained in taekwondo during the summers. At 17, he earned a full financial-aid scholarship to Rutgers University, where he majored in Theater and Cinema. He also became a competitive 3rd-degree black belt and captain of the Taekwondo team. After graduating, his first role was as a resident actor at The George Street Playhouse, where he worked with the renowned Uta Hagen during her workshops while performing in "Collected Stories." His training includes studies at Rutgers University, The William Esper Studio, The Carter-Thor Studio, The Groundlings Improv Theater, Richard Waterhouse, Jonathan Slavin, and his favorite acting book is David Mamet’s 'True and False.'
His feature film, 'Starting from Scratch,' which he wrote, directed, co-edited, co-produced, and starred in, was acquired and distributed worldwide following a successful film festival circuit. The heartfelt romantic comedy earned several awards: 'Best Film' at the DisOrient Film Festival in Oregon, 'Best Comedy' at the Asians on Film Festival in Los Angeles, 'Best Ensemble Cast' and 'Best Editing' at the Independent Filmmakers Showcase of Los Angeles, and an 'Honorable Mention for Best Film' at the New Jersey Film Festival. James also wrote and directed two additional feature comedies, '1st Date' and 'Get You Back,' both of which secured worldwide distribution. All three films are available on multiple streaming platforms. His accolades include a Best Actor award from the Stay Tuned TV Awards and a Prism Award for directing. Additionally, James is an enthusiastic photographer, having completed the UCLA Extension Photography Certificate Program with straight A's.
