We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Mako San a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Mako thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. We’d love to hear about when you first realized that you wanted to pursue a creative path professionally.

The first time I knew I wanted to be involved in film was when I saw Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back. I wanted to be a Jedi Knight. At the time, I was shy and had no understanding of the industry.
I’ve been studying martial arts since I was a child and competed heavily on the professional circuit. One day, at a tournament, renowned martial artist, actor, and fight choreographer Mike Chat had a film crew present. He told them to film me in action. I remember thinking, This is my moment. Nothing came of it, but the desire to pursue film never left me.
In the early 2000s, I finally learned how to submit for jobs and start navigating the industry. I landed my first major action job in Romeo Santos’ music video for “El Malo.” From there, I was cast as Silver in the short film Salvation Road. Over the years, I began booking more roles and gaining confidence.
Most recently, I play the lead antagonist, Jeremiah, in the new film The Last Vendetta, which premieres on Amazon Prime on August 29. I also star as the lead antagonist, Sean, in the upcoming film Mirror Life, set to release on VOD.

Mako , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I’m Mako San, and my journey has been shaped by both hardship and resilience. Growing up, I experienced domestic abuse in my home, constant moves, family trauma, and even times of homelessness—sleeping on couches in Harlem and not knowing where my next meal would come from. What kept me grounded and ultimately transformed my life was Martial Arts.

What started as an afterschool program—originally just a way for my parents to find me a safe space—became the discipline that saved me. Martial Arts gave me structure, confidence, and the courage to face life’s toughest challenges. Over the years, I’ve competed and won on major stages, becoming one of the leading martial artists to come out of New York’s toughest neighborhoods.

For over two decades, I’ve run Full Element Martial Arts in the Bronx, a school that serves people of all ages and cultural backgrounds. Our mission is to help individuals get out of their own way, discover their inner strength, and believe in their potential for success—not just in martial arts, but in life. Many of our students have grown into leaders, professionals, and champions. One I’m especially proud of is Stacia Suttles, who went from training with us to becoming a professional boxer.

My work extends beyond the dojo. Martial Arts gave me the courage to pursue acting, fight choreography, and stunt work, where I bring authenticity and intensity to film and television. Whether I’m on set or teaching at the studio, I carry the same discipline, passion, and drive.

What sets me apart isn’t just my story—it’s my belief in others. I admire people. I love seeing them win, gain confidence, and achieve breakthroughs they never thought possible. My own journey through homelessness and hardship taught me that with discipline and support, anyone can rise above their circumstances.

What I’m most proud of is threefold:

My son, who is growing into his own person and becoming better than me.

My school, which allows me to do what I love while giving back to the community.

My team and students, who continue to carry the torch of leadership and inspiration to others.

At the heart of everything I do—whether teaching martial arts, performing on set, or inspiring through storytelling—is the mission to prove that no matter where you start, you can overcome, rise, and thrive.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

Resilience and Reinvention

The road was far from smooth. After 9/11, Mako San faced homelessness, riding New York’s A train to its last stop at night and wrestling with inner battles that shaped his resilience. Through those struggles, he found strength—and a renewed purpose in art and service.

Now with all of the hardwork Mako San has appeared on blockbluster hits and on August 29th the Release of The Last Vendetta on Amazon Prime will showcase Mako San’s Fight Choreography and his acting through the main antagonist Jeremiah.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

What Sets Him Apart

Known as much for his humanity as his craft, Mako San has earned a reputation for professionalism, creativity, and genuine care for the success of those he works with. His ultimate goal is to inspire others to believe in their dreams, no matter the struggles they’ve endured.

A Galaxy Far, Far Away

One of Mako San’s fondest childhood memories is seeing Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back. Years later, during his most difficult times, the world of Star Wars gave him hope and imagination when life seemed darkest. It remains a source of inspiration that fuels his storytelling to this day.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.makosanactor.com/
• Instagram: Makosanpro
• Linkedin: Mako San
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2mJ5usUabRMg26hTLgjJ8Q
• Soundcloud: Mako San

Image Credits

Mako San