Jimmy Shaw is a renowned American actor, recognized for his extensive work in film, television, and theatre. Born in Los Angeles, he spent his childhood in Northern coastal Massachusetts before relocating to New York on a journalism scholarship to The School of Visual Arts.
It was during his time at The School of Visual Arts that Jimmy's acting career began to take shape. A classmate approached him with an opportunity to serve as a scene partner for an audition for Uta Hagen's class at HB Studios. The scene was Lyle Kessler's "Orphans," and Jimmy, initially hesitant, was surprised to learn that he had been accepted into the program due to his exceptional listening skills and ability to be present in the moment.
Jimmy's early training under the guidance of Warren Robertson, Wynn Handman, Stephen Strimpell, Michael Shurtleff, and Alan Miller laid the foundation for his future success. He made his legitimate New York theatrical debut in Charles Busch's Off-Broadway comedy "The Lady In Question" at The Orpheum Theatre, playing the role of Karel, the brainwashed Hitler youth.
Jimmy's television credits include appearances in smaller roles in series such as "Major Dad," "Beverly Hills 90210," "Sisters," and "Will and Grace." In 2001, he embarked on a three-month Spanish language course in Spain, which ultimately led to a job as an English teacher and a prolonged stay in the country.
Jimmy's breakthrough in the Spanish-speaking world came with his recurring role as Matthew in the prime time hit comedy series "La Que Se Avecina." He went on to appear in numerous Spanish prime time series and films, balancing his career between Madrid and Los Angeles. His performance in the internationally acclaimed Spanish miniseries "El Tiempo Entre Costuras" (Netflix) showcased his range, earning him a reputation as a standout comedy performer who could also deliver nuanced dramatic performances.
Jimmy has continued to work in Spanish prime time series and films, including his recent return for a second season in the hit prime time dramatic series "El Ministerio del Tiempo" (Netflix) and upcoming appearances in Goya winner Alberto Rodriguez's feature "El Hombre de las Mil Caras" alongside Eduard Fernandez and Jose Coronado, as well as in Doug Spearman's "From Zero To I Love You" and Miguel Angel Jimenez's "The Night Watchman."
In 2008, Jimmy received rave reviews for his solo performance as Christopher in James Carrol Pickett's one-character play "Dream Man" at The Skylight Theatre in Los Angeles, directed by Michael Kearns. He also starred in the Dublin, Edinburgh, and Madrid productions of the same play, further solidifying his reputation as a talented and versatile actor.