Rising Stars: Meet Michael James Sewell Jr of Atlanta

Today we’d like to introduce you to Michael James Sewell Jr.

Hi Michael, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Of course. My story is rooted in transformation and purpose. I’m originally from Memphis, Tennessee, where I came up in an environment that wasn’t always easy. I started as a rap artist, using music to tell my story, but life had a different plan for me. After going through some tough chapters and learning the hard way, I found myself at a crossroads—and that’s when acting stepped into my life.

I began with background work, no ego, just hustle and a hunger to learn. I didn’t come from a traditional acting background—I came from real life. I studied on my own, watched performances, practiced nonstop, and stayed prayed up. Over time, that faith and grind paid off. Today, I’ve starred in and co-produced multiple films on platforms like Tubi, YouTube, Prime Video, and even Netflix. One of my proudest moments was being named Ace Honors Breakthrough Actor of the Year—a reminder that when God opens a door, no man can shut it.

I’m here for the people who feel unseen—the ex-cons, the ex-hustlers, the ones trying to rewrite their story. I carry that with me in every role. This journey is bigger than fame. It’s about purpose, redemption, and showing the world that God don’t play about me.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Definitely not a smooth road—and honestly, I wouldn’t want it to be. The struggle built me.

Coming from Memphis, I had to survive a lot—street life, mistakes from my past that could’ve ended everything. I’ve been locked up, counted out, and overlooked more times than I can remember. People didn’t always believe in me, and early on, I didn’t always believe in myself either. Even when I stepped into acting, I wasn’t taken seriously at first. No agent. No fancy training. Just hunger, faith, and the will to make it happen.

I’ve dealt with setbacks, betrayal, fake promises, and people trying to use my gift without giving proper credit or compensation. I’ve also battled with self-doubt, wondering if I was good enough or if people only saw my past. But through all of that, I kept showing up. I stayed focused, trusted The Most High, and worked like every role was my last shot.

The road wasn’t smooth—but it made me solid. Now when doors open, I know exactly what it took to get here.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m a full-time actor, producer, and storyteller. I specialize in bringing raw, real, and powerful characters to life—especially roles that reflect the streets, redemption, and the struggles people usually try to hide. I’ve starred in and co-produced several films on Tubi, YouTube, Prime Video, and Netflix, and I’m known for my strong screen presence, deep voice, and ability to make any character believable—whether it’s a hustler, a father, a lover, or a broken man trying to change.

Some of my standout work includes playing G Money in the Award winning, #1 hit series Tears of a Hustler, my breakout role in #BFF, and starring in films like Don’t Fumble Me Twice, Sharlotte’s Web, and The Client. I also co-directed and produced Sinful Lies, and recently released a comedy mini-series I produced called Da Group Home, now streaming on Tubi.

What I’m most proud of is the impact. I’ve had people message me saying my roles gave them hope or helped them see themselves differently. For me, it’s about being a voice for the voiceless—the ex-cons, the underdogs, the ones trying to rewrite their story.

What sets me apart is that I’m not acting to be famous—I’m acting because it’s my purpose. I’ve lived a real life, so when you see me on screen, that pain, that passion, that power—it’s all real. I’m not trying to be like anybody else. I’m just being who God called me to be.

Any big plans?
I’m just getting started. My plan is to keep leveling up—not just as an actor, but as a director, producer, and businessman. I’m working on expanding my production work, creating more original content that tells real, unapologetic stories—stories that represent people like me, who came from the bottom but didn’t stay there.

I’ve got a few new films in the works, and I’m also pushing to get more of my projects on major platforms like Netflix and Prime. I want to break more doors open—not just for me, but for other talented people who never got a shot. I’m also looking into building my clothing line and possibly starting a mentorship program for young men coming out of tough situations, showing them there’s another way.

So yeah, I’m planning for big moves—but I stay grounded, because I know none of this is possible without The Most High. Whatever comes next, I’m ready. I’m walking in purpose, and I know the best is still ahead.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaeljames_presents
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1AKbvJduCS/
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@michaeljamespresentsllc4226
• Email: Michaeljamespresents@gmail.com

Image Credits
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