Jim was born in a small, paper-mill town nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, a region known for its breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. His upbringing was marked by the values of hard work and determination, instilled in him by his parents, who hailed from Scotland and Ireland. Growing up, Jim spent every spare moment exploring the great outdoors, engaging in activities such as swimming, fishing, and shooting, while also developing a resilience that would serve him well in the face of adversity.
As a student, Jim found schoolwork to be a breeze, but his attention was often drawn away from his studies by the call of adventure and the thrill of discovery. He graduated from high school in the middle of his class of 235 students, a testament to his natural aptitude and his ability to learn quickly.
After serving his country during the Vietnam War, Jim began his career as a journeyman electrician, honing his skills and building a reputation as a reliable and hardworking professional. However, it was during this period that he also began to pursue his passion for modeling, leveraging his rugged good looks and imposing physique to secure a steady stream of lifestyle, magazine, and brochure work.
As he entered his 40s, Jim decided to take the leap and pursue a career in acting, despite having no formal training or experience. He threw himself into a series of acting workshops and seminars, hosted by some of the top casting directors in Florida and California, and began to land small roles in film and television.
One of Jim's most notable early roles was as a bartender in the 1985 episode of Miami Vice, a show that was riding high in the ratings at the time. This marked his first SAG job, and it was a milestone moment in his career.
Throughout his life, Jim has been blessed with a loving and supportive family. He has been married to the same wonderful woman since 1968, and they have four children who have all grown up and started families of their own. Only one of his children has followed in his footsteps and pursued a career in the entertainment industry.
