Clayton's journey in the entertainment industry began when he played Papa Easter Bunny in the 2nd grade at P.S. 26 in the Bronx. Over the next five decades, he established himself as a multifaceted performer, taking on various roles as a mime, actor, director, producer, writer, and acting teacher.
He made his television debut as Roger Barrow in the first season of HBO's 1st and Ten, a scripted half-hour comedy series. Clayton went on to secure recurring roles in ten TV shows, including three seasons as James Westmont on Knots Landing and a year as the villainous Gregory on Days of Our Lives.
In addition to his television work, Clayton has appeared in numerous films, including Norma Rae, Fatal Beauty, Pump Up the Volume, and The Great Lillian Hall. His film credits have been showcased at prestigious festivals like Cannes, Sundance, and Venice. Notably, Norma Rae was inducted into the Library of Congress National Film Registry in 2011.
Clayton has also had a successful career on stage, with over 40 theatrical productions in New York, Los Angeles, Atlanta, and Dallas. He has received several awards and nominations for his performances, including a Drama-Logue Award, an LA Weekly Award, and a Garland Award.
As a musician, Clayton has released a CD, Clayton & The Five Classics, featuring a collection of Doo Wop classics, and a single, Love Potion #9, which is available on international streaming services.
Clayton's training includes a Bachelor of Arts degree in Drama from the University of Houston, as well as classes with renowned instructors Darryl Hickman, Stella Adler, and Marlon Brando. He currently teaches Scene Study For The Working Actor and Get Out of Your Head at the Alliance Theatre.
In addition to his work in the entertainment industry, Clayton is a dedicated union member and has served on the SAG-AFTRA National Board, representing the Atlanta Local. He played a key role in the creation of the Muriel Moore/Danny Nelson SAG-AFTRA Conservatory and served as its chair for seven years.
Clayton is married to Leslie Landey, a world-ranked and record-holding Masters Swimmer.
