We recently connected with Tommie Earl Jenkins and have shared our conversation below.

Tommie, appreciate you joining us today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

I think I always had something in me that needed to find its way to the surface in regards to entertainment in some form or another. Perhaps that’s why I tried a little bit of everything I sang, danced, acted, modeled, taught, drew, and to this day I still try everything.

I must’ve been about 10 or 11 I guess. I was obsessed with singing and playing records a putting together little singing groups as a kid, also singing in church was probably considered my first audience. If you can win them over you’re doing good.

But somehow I’ve always known I wanted to pursue this path even if I didn’t know which road to take, I always felt that things would work out somehow and the universe would guide me in the right direction.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

My name is Tommie Earl Jenkins and I am an Actor, Voice over artist, Singer, Writer and Creative. I started out in the entertainment industry at an early age. 14 years old to be exact. It began in the theater back in my hometown of Canton Ohio. It was also at that time I earned my very first paycheck as an actor in a theater show. I always knew that I wanted to be a part of entertainment in some capacity whether that was singing, acting or dancing. All of which became part of my individual make-up as an artist. I became very active in my local community semi-professional theater and Ballet Company. I learned a great deal about the craft as a performer. Watching and learning from those who were seasoned and being like a sponge and soaking up all the information I could that would one day lead me to where I am.

As someone who has been able to “Do it all”, ie; Stage, TV/Film, Dance, Voice Over etc. It took some time to figure it out.
I often forget about all the work that I have done in the past because I’m always concentrating on the present moment and trying to evolve to the next phase. It’s not until it has been brought to my attention about my past work that I have to stop and acknowledge it. I try not to dwell on past achievements but it does the soul good to remind yourself of who you are and where you came from.

My work has led me all around the world and allowed me to experience so many different countries and cultures. From working in the glittering West End on the London stages, to the bright lights of Broadway to the back lots of Hollywood. Working with some of the industry’s most notable directors, choreographers, producers, writers, and developers have allowed me to grow, thrive and hone my career in what is a very competitive field.

I am also a strong supporter of the LGBTQ+ Community. As a gay black man, I am proud to represent. Diversity has always been lacking across the board, not just in my field of expertise but across all industries. I hope to be a beacon of light for those like minded souls who long to be a part of this industry, and to be a voice and face for them to recognize and know that they too can achieve what was once considered to be the impossible. I too will keep striving to help earn our place in history.
I think most people around the world will know me from two different mediums, I played Mayor Noble Walker on the incredible hit show WEDNESDAY on Netflix by Tim Burton and also from the gaming world I played Die Hardman in the hugely successful video game by Hideo Kojima, DEATH STRANDING. Feel free to check out my IMDB page to know more

https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1045674/

I have some very exciting projects in the works that I can’t wait to talk about, but for now mums the word. But I will keep you all updated via my socials. Handles below.

Instagram- tommie_earl_jenkinsofficial
Twitter X – @teejaye84
Facebook – Tommie Earl Jenkins

At this moment in time our industry is suffering through the strikes that are taking place. SAG-AFTRA and the WGA among other unions who are standing in solidarity as we fight for our fair share for what’s due us and protection against AI and other important factors. Stand strong.

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

For me the most rewarding aspect about being and artist, and in this case an Actor, is that I get to experience storytelling on a different level. I get to get into the minds of characters and bring them to life. Learn how they tick, what makes them who they are. Breaking down the text in a script and really understanding the story we are trying to convey.

But also taking the audience on a journey that makes them feel some kind of way, whether you’re the protagonist or the antagonist our job is to portray what the writer intended.
Also I get to share my knowledge with young people and future actors, and help teach them about what I do and how they can find their own individual unique and authentic voice. That is key. Watching them progress is everything.

Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?

There is a book called “A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life’s Purpose” by Eckhart Tolle, and it changed me forever. This book spits it out in plain words about how we are as humans and how to live in the present moment because that is all we have. Also transcending our ego-based consciousness will lead to a happier life once you understand how the ego works. Highly recommend it.

Also “The Power of Intention” by Wayne Dyer is another good one!

Contact Info:

• Website: www.tommieearljenkins.com
• Instagram: @tommie_earl_jenkinsofficial
• Facebook: Tommie Earl Jenkins
• Twitter: @teejaye84
• Youtube: Tommie Earl Jenkins

Image Credits
The Riker Brothers should be credited for all photos except the one of me as Mayor Noble Walker sitting at the desk. That is an official press photo from Netflix for WEDNESDAY.