Escalante Lundy is a renowned American film and television actor and producer, hailing from the vibrant city of New Orleans, Louisiana. His most notable role to date is undoubtedly his portrayal of "Big Fred" in Quentin Tarantino's critically acclaimed and Oscar-nominated film, Django Unchained.
Born in New Orleans as the eldest of five brothers, Lundy's early life was marked by a strong sense of family and a deep connection to his roots. His parents, Merline (nee' Roy),a retired real estate agent, and Hughes Banks Lundy, a salesman, instilled in him a sense of determination and resilience.
Escalante's academic background is equally impressive, with a Bachelor's degree in Urban Planning from the University of Southwestern Louisiana (USL) and Master's degrees in Urban Planning and Geographic Information Systems from the University of New Orleans.
Before turning his attention to acting, Lundy began his career as a stage producer in Sacramento, California. However, when an actor failed to show up for a production, Lundy seized the opportunity to take on the role himself, and his subsequent success led him to pivot towards acting as a full-time career path.
Despite being naturally shy, Lundy credits acting as a tool to help him overcome his fears of public speaking and improve his diction. He continued to hone his acting skills by taking on parts in small productions in film and on-stage in Los Angeles and Las Vegas.
In 2005, Lundy returned to his hometown of New Orleans, leaving behind his position with the California Department of Transportation in Sacramento. The devastating effects of Hurricane Katrina, which claimed the lives of his family members, motivated him to permanently relocate and contribute to the city's rebuilding efforts.
As New Orleans began to rebuild, Lundy continued to pursue his passion for acting, focusing on film roles and studying with renowned acting coaches such as Veleka Grey and Lance Nichols. He also became a fixture at the acclaimed Jerry Katz Joint, where he honed his craft under the guidance of Ivana Chubback.
In 2007, Lundy made his New Orleans theatrical debut as co-lead in the production of "Papaya Man" with the Anthony Bean Community Theater (ABCT). Despite a challenging first rehearsal, Lundy credits Mr. Bean with giving him the support and encouragement he needed to persevere.
Lundy's major motion picture debut came in 2012, when he played the role of "Big Fred" in Quentin Tarantino's spaghetti western, Django Unchained. His performance as a Mandingo fighter showcased his range and depth as an actor, and his grueling fight scenes left a lasting impression on audiences.
Throughout his career, Lundy has appeared in a range of projects, including HBO's Emmy-nominated television series Treme and a Pampers commercial with Super Bowl Championship Quarterback, Drew Brees. His versatility and dedication to his craft have made him a sought-after talent in the industry.
