Brandon T. Jackson
While most kids growing up in Detroit, Michigan found school to be dull and unbearable, Brandon T. Jackson somehow managed to laugh his way through it. Comedy was the perfect outlet to get through all of life's drama. Brandon held the title of "class clown" and grew his passion for comedy and acting by doing talent shows and performing at youth nights at his father's church. By age 14, Brandon's career as a stand-up comic evolved from local school shows and community projects such as the Motor City Youth Festival to an appearance in Marc Cayce's film, Nikita Blues (2001).
Brandon took an internship at local Detroit radio station 93.1 FM and soon found himself as a guest host at 105.9 FM. As his following grew so did his hunger to become the funniest young comedian. Brandon's drive took him to Hollywood; where in 2001 he was cast as an extra in major movies such as Ali (2001), Bowling for Columbine (2002), and 8 Mile (2002). He began to get calls to open up and work with comedians such as Chris Tucker and Wayne Brady. It was only a matter of time before his life would completely change.
After Brandon's sidesplitting performances at New York City's Showtime at the Apollo and BET's Comic View, the 19-year-old actor/comedian was cast in his first major movie role as Bow Wow's (X) best friend, Junior. The film, due out in September 2005, is directed by Malcolm Lee (The Rucker, Undercover Brother, The Best Man) and written by Norman Vance Jr. Roll Bounce is a 1970s roller-skate coming-of-age comedy filmed in Chicago, IL which will also feature Chi McBride, Nick Cannon, Khleo Thomas, Mike Epps, and Meagan Good.
The Creative Artists Agency (CAA) and numerous notable casting directors had now taken notice. That same year, the Disney Channel agreed to develop his half-hour sitcom entitled, The Class Clown.Brandon's comedic inspiration comes from top comedians such as Sinbad, Martin Lawrence, and Chris Rock. Much of his material touches upon politics, the ups and downs of being young, dating, God, and just about any issue. Brandon, who is one of seven siblings, credits getting his sense of humor to his dad, Bishop Wayne T. Jackson. And as if he didn't have enough pressure, his mother also serves as the Pastor of their church.
Growing up Brandon saw both sides of life. He had one foot in the suburbs and the other in the inner city. Communicating to and motivating youth is a mission etched in his heart. When he is not doing movies and performing in comedy clubs and television, Brandon is reaching back to his own contemporaries. "I've gone through the same typical stuff most kids go through. I want to help kids see beyond the same mess that continues to oppress us. I want them to take their lives to the next level in every aspect. Young people need direction and I want to use my talents to do just that."
A 2005 national tour is currently in the works for his comedy show featuring other talented young comedians and musicians.Brandon aspires to be the funniest man in America, without cursing, and hopes to reshape the world of comedy into one that inspires, teaches, and uplifts people.