James Shanklin is a multifaceted individual, boasting a remarkable career as both an award-winning actor and screenwriter. Born and raised in Baltimore, Maryland, he spent his undergraduate summers working as a lifeguard on the beach for the Ocean City Beach Patrol.
His professional theatre career began with a stint at Center Stage in Baltimore, where he performed in David Hare's Map of the World. He then went on to work at Washington, DC's Folger Theatre, alongside the renowned actor Stacy Keach in Richard III. His impressive resume also includes performances at Arena Stage, where he was directed by the legendary Liviu Ciulei.
Shanklin's talent and dedication led him to join the prestigious Yale School of Drama, where he participated in numerous productions, including John Guare's Landscape of the Body alongside Laura Linney. Upon graduating, he continued to work with the Public Theatre and the New York Shakespeare Festival, making his mark with the world premiere of Thulani Davis's Everybody's Ruby, featuring the talented Viola Davis.
Despite his growing success in film and television, Shanklin never lost his passion for theatre. He continued to work in New York City, taking on roles in produced television shows and films. In 2004, he made the move to Los Angeles, where he has had the opportunity to collaborate with esteemed actors such as Brad Pitt, Tom Cruise, Eddie Murphy, and Alfre Woodard, as well as directors like David Fincher, Barry Sonnenfeld, JJ Abrams, and Tyler Perry.
In 2023, Shanklin will portray Steve Ballmer in the upcoming FX production of Clipped, alongside Ed O'Neil, Jacki Weaver, and Laurence Fishburne.
A dedicated animal advocate, Shanklin has always been passionate about the welfare of animals. At one point, he shared his home with five dogs, and more recently, he has four miniature dachshunds with his actress partner, Eileen Wesson.
