Dontez X. James, a native of Cleveland, Ohio, caught the acting bug early on while performing in an elementary school production of Aladdin Jr. After transferring schools and becoming a top track and field prospect at Ravenna High School, Dontez continued to nurture his creative side through writing fictional novels by the time he graduated and went to college.
At the University of Akron, Dontez rediscovered his passion for the stage and eventually faced a major life decision. Feeling that college was not for him, he published his second book and took a chance at becoming a Hollywood actor.
Following rumors of the school discontinuing its theater program and being placed on academic probation, Dontez took this as a sign that he should pursue acting. He returned to his calling and continued his education by working as a background extra in Ohio-based film and TV productions, including extended work on "Fate of the Furious."
One year later, Dontez booked his first professional audition, a small role in "The Land" starring Erykah Badu, Michael K. Williams, and Machine Gun Kelly. Director Steven Caple Jr. praised his work during the auditioning process and performance on set.
Dontez went on to book four roles back to back in Ohio-filmed features, including "My Friend Dahmer," "The Assassin's Code," "Surviving Compton," and "Last Flag Flying." Impressed with his performances, "Dahmer" producer Adam Goldworm and "Assassin's Code" director David A. Armstrong both 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. 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.
Dontez's performance as "Donnie" garnered rave reviews and fan buzz, and he recurred for two episodes during season 2. He eventually placed into a storyline before the series' cancellation with MAX. Committed to personal growth and exploring the human condition, Dontez's gracious humility, warm humor, and ever-deepening acting range make him an actor to watch.
About Dontez X. James:
He began writing at age 11 as a way to cope with emotional struggles due to his mother's battle with Lupus. After moving to Ravenna, OH, Dontez joined the Upward Bound Program, which helped him become the first published author in his family.
By the time Dontez finished his first year of college, he was the author of two novels and had already decided on his life's path. Throughout his journey, Dontez has continued to face life experiences that have shaped both his writing and acting career.
As an artist, Dontez explores universal themes of temptation and redemption, head vs. heart, too-much-too-soon, and more using a refreshing first-person narrative. He creates authentic dialogue and well-painted settings. Dontez has recurring readers across the states who have shared their testimonies about their personal growth and healing from the hidden messages within his work.
