Dontez James

Ravenna, Ohio native Dontez X. James caught the acting bug early while performing in elementary school plays, eventually studying acting at the University of Akron. After the school discontinued its theater program he continued his education on set as a background extra in Ohio-based film and TV productions, including extended work on "Fate of the Furious." Dontez booked his first professional audition, a small role in "The Land" starring Eryka Badu, Michael K. Williams and Machine Gun Kelly. Although his scene was ultimately cut, director Steven Caple Jr. ("Creed II") praised his work. More roles in Ohio-filmed features quickly followed: "My Friend Dahmer," "The Assassin's Code" and "Last Flag Flying." Impressed with his performances, "Dahmer" producer Adam Goldworm and "Assassin's Code" director David A. Armstrong both strongly encouraged Dontez to move to Los Angeles. He took the leap and moved to LA in 2019, signing with Goldworm's Aperture Entertainment and Momentum Talent Agency. Once in LA Dontez began studying with renowned acting instructors Lesly Kahn and Chad McCord, and signed with 831 Entertainment for dual management with Aperture. He hit the ground running, booking several commercials; and within months he landed a featured role in the pilot episode of HBO's acclaimed comedy series "Made for Love" starring Cristin Milioti, Billy Magnussen and Ray Romano. Put on pause during Covid, the series premiered in April 2021 and Dontez's hilariously quirky standout performance as "Donnie" garnered rave reviews and fan buzz. Committed to personal growth and exploring the human condition, Dontez's gracious humility, warm humor, and ever-deepening acting range make him an up-and-comer who's one to watch.