Jay Ellis

With a diverse skill set and resume spanning television and film, Jay Ellis is an American actor and producer who has quickly become one of Hollywood’s most in-demand talents. He's also an advocate for changing the narrative around young black men and is passionate about fighting HIV/AIDS in the black community.

Ellis played 'Lawrence' on HBO’s critically acclaimed comedy series "Insecure," a role for which he won an NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Actor in a Comedy Series. "Insecure," created by Issa Rae and Larry Wilmore, also bagged nominations for an NAACP Image Award in the “Outstanding Comedy Series” category in 2017 and 2018. Apart from "Insecure," he starred on the BET series "The Game" from 2013 to 2015 and also had roles in "Masters of Sex," "Grace and Frankie," "How I Met Your Mother," "Grey’s Anatomy," and "NCIS."

Ellis's filmography includes lead roles in the horror film "Escape Room" and "Top Gun: Maverick." He was also in various other films, such as "Breaking Through," and television shows, such as "Mrs. America" and the Amazon series "Black Box."

As the host of the podcast series "The Untold Story: Policing," Ellis leverages his platform for social engagement and advocacy. He also runs a podcast company, further expanding his engagement in the media. He also volunteers at Inside Out Writers, an organization that teaches creative writing classes in Los Angeles County Juvenile Detention Centers.

In 2017, Ellis won the Black Reel Award for Television, and in the same year, he played college basketball for Concordia University. His work extends beyond his acting career. In 2016, Ellis served as the National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day Spokesman, partnering with the leading HIV/AIDS research organization, amfAR, for philanthropic work. His efforts were recognized by the Obama administration, which requested him to speak and moderate a panel at the final My Brother’s Keeper summit.