Welcome
I’m Jelani Julyus
Actor | Writer | Musician | Ideator
I believe in the power of storytelling to influence and shape culture. I hope to contribute to our rich storytelling tradition as a creative with a hopeful outlook on life.
Through therapy and self-work, I am determined to release the fear which kept me from my dreams of being on stage and in film. Today I am prepared to share my unique ability to find the hope nestled at the heart of any story.
I dedicate my career as an actor and creative to my children in the hope that they learn it's never too late to pursue your dreams.
My Last Gig
Inheritance or Brothers in the Deep, a new work by Mike Jone, chronicles brothers, Marcus and Bentley’s annual fishing trip. The two brothers face rough waters, buried trauma, and the challenge to change in this supernatural drama. I’m beyond grateful for this role – my first two-hander and what an incredible artistic challenge.
“I enjoyed the authenticity and emotional range of Julyus’ performance, and both actors have good comedic instincts.” - The Chicago Tribune
What I'm Thinking About
The Highs & Lows of Understudying
I recognize this is an unpopular opinion, but I like understudying. Hear me out.
New Short Film Project – LIBIAMO!
Early on in my journey, I struggled to find opportunities to act in films until my friend, Derek Dow, gave me this advice: “You need to take filmmaker and directing classes.” Hear him out.
Kicking Year 5 Off with 2024 Commitments
No words can truly express how blessed and grateful I am for 2023. My first year as a professional actor validated every impulse and gut belief I held throughout training. I’ve found my purpose, my thing, the thing I would do for free. I love every aspect of the actor’s life, from the thrill of auditioning to the community building through rehearsals. Even the hurry-up-and-wait life of being on set appeals to me, so I can just sit here in my trailer and read, write, make music, or do whatever. Yes, please! From commercials to films, theater to class, I lived as an artist in 2023, and I’m ready to double down on my growth and experiences in 2024.
My First Commercial
It’s funny. When you get started in acting, you aren’t dreaming about your first commercial gig—I know I wasn’t—but honestly, it was a great experience. The best part was that I didn’t even audition. My agent called me and asked me to show up at a studio, and I went to work. Turns out, they […]
Kicking Off Year 4 with Commitments for 2023
The notion of working in the movies or performing had always been there, but fear paralyzed me from taking action. However, in 2020, amid tremendous life changes and personal upheaval, I embarked on the journey of becoming an actor as a New Year’s resolution.
