James Freedson-Jackson's life journey began in California, but his formative years were largely spent in the New York area, where he developed an extraordinary affinity for the King of Pop, Michael Jackson. This profound admiration manifested itself in an uncanny ability to perform the iconic Moonwalk dance move, a feat he accomplished long before he could even take his first steps. This early fascination with Michael Jackson's artistry served as the catalyst for James's pursuit of a career in dance and acting, leading him to enroll in the prestigious Alvin Ailey School's pre-professional program in New York. For many years, he dedicated himself to honing his skills as a dancer and actor, meticulously refining his craft under the guidance of esteemed instructors.
James' life was forever etched with the thrill of a once-in-a-lifetime experience, as he was personally selected by the renowned Bruno Mars to participate in the esteemed 2014 Super Bowl Halftime Show. This extraordinary honor enabled James to share the spotlight with eleven other talented youngsters, collectively captivating the attention of millions of viewers worldwide.
James initially ventured into the world of filmmaking in 2015, making his debut in the highly acclaimed thriller Cop Car, where he had the opportunity to share the screen with the renowned actor Kevin Bacon. This pivotal role not only garnered James widespread recognition but also earned him a prestigious Saturn Award nomination for "Best Performance by a Younger Actor", a testament to his burgeoning talent.
Building upon this early success, James went on to secure a starring role in The Strange Ones, opposite the talented Alex Pettyfer. This performance would ultimately culminate in James receiving the coveted 2017 SXSW Film Festival award for "Best Breakthrough Performance", a fitting recognition of his remarkable growth as an actor.
James's television career has been marked by notable appearances in the Marvel/Netflix series Jessica Jones, where he brought to life the complex and intriguing character of Young Kilgrave, the adolescent precursor to the arch villain masterfully portrayed by David Tennant.
In addition to his work on Jessica Jones, James has also made a lasting impression on audiences through his role as a young boy with a dark past in the NBC series The Blacklist.
Moreover, James's most recent cinematic endeavor, the film 18 to Party, directed by Jeff Roda, has premiered at the prestigious Chelsea Film Festival and is slated for a wider release later this year, offering viewers a glimpse into his impressive range and versatility as an actor.
As his career continues to unfold, James is undoubtedly an emerging talent to watch, with a growing list of credits and a promising future in the entertainment industry.
James's theatrical career has been marked by a diverse range of roles, with notable performances including that of a hungry orphan in the esteemed production of Oliver! at the renowned Papermill Playhouse, as well as the charismatic Winthrop in The Music Man.
In addition to his on-stage accomplishments, James has also utilized his vocal talents for various voice-over projects, further demonstrating his versatility as a performer.
Growing up, James was afforded a unique opportunity to gain a behind-the-scenes perspective on the world of theatre, frequently accompanying his parents to rehearsals and observing the performers up close. This early exposure had a profound impact on his development, as he learned a range of skills that would serve him well in his future pursuits.
James's fascination with the art of magic led him to develop a remarkable proficiency in conjuring tricks, and he has also honed his skills in the realm of celebrity impersonations, impressing audiences with his uncanny ability to capture the mannerisms and characteristics of his subjects.
When he's not busy with his daily responsibilities, James tends to indulge in a variety of recreational activities that bring him immense joy and satisfaction. Among his favorite pastimes are skiing, biking, and hiking, which allow him to connect with nature and challenge himself physically.
In addition to these outdoor pursuits, James also has a passion for shooting hoops, a hobby that requires skill, strategy, and a bit of friendly competition. He finds that this activity helps him stay active, focused, and relaxed.
But James's free time isn't just filled with adrenaline-fueled adventures. He's also incredibly nurturing and has a special talent for bonding with babies and animals. His gentle touch and soothing presence make him a natural caregiver, and he's often sought out by friends and family for advice on childcare and pet care.
One of the people James is closest to is his twin sister, Anita. They share a unique bond that's only strengthened by their identical DNA. Despite their close relationship, James has probably spent more time with Anita than with anyone else in his life, which is a testament to the strong sibling connection they share.
