Meet J.C. Hoffman | Actor

We had the good fortune of connecting with J.C. Hoffman and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi J.C., where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?
Well, I am kind of from everywhere. Moving 6 times in 18 years as an Army kid was not just a series of relocations; it was a perpetual adventure, an immersion into diverse cultures and communities. At age 4, I knew how to avoid a nuclear shock wave blast, and that duct tape was “100 mph tape,” so you don’t stick it on a plane, but you can stick on a tank. Diversity, equity, and inclusion were not just catchphrases but the fabric of my everyday existence. I often wonder why we need labels for such fundamental aspects of life, as to me, it was simply the way the world was meant to be. Living and traveling extensively in Europe during the Cold War was astonishing. Yet I find that some of the most foreign cultures I encountered were not overseas but in various domestic locations, each move unveiling a new layer of the rich tapestry of human experience. I find that having this background provides me with an unusual and unique viewpoint on today’s issues, a perspective shaped by the nuances of history and geopolitics.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
In the scorching Kansas summer heat, on a tree stump at the tender age of 4, I discovered a love for sports that would shape the trajectory of my life. Clad in a Dallas Cowboys football helmet, I felt the exhilaration of pushing boundaries, embracing challenges, savoring victories, and reveling in the pure joy of the game. As a child of the US Army, shaped by 6 moves in 18 years across Europe and the United States during the Cold War I was, in jest, forged by the US Army. This nomadic lifestyle instilled in me the traits of adaptability, loyalty, fairness, toughness, vivacity, and tenacity. My journey continued as I channeled my boundless energy into becoming a college basketball player. Living in “the zone,” where brilliance and freedom intertwined, I found my true self. Post-college, recognizing my inability to be tethered to a desk, I pursued a doctorate in physical therapy, embracing the role of healer and caretaker. Becoming a wife, a proud dog mom and a human mom, something intangible eluded me until serendipitously stumbling into the world of acting.
With a resounding “BAM!” acting became my new sport, life’s pursuit, and ultimate challenge. It reignited the same exuberance I felt at 4, wearing that Dallas Cowboy helmet. While the physicality may differ, the freedom, authenticity, and sheer joy are akin to my days on the court. Now, as an actor, I bring this rich tapestry of experiences and perspectives to every role.
Embracing the unexpected, I find myself on a path unforeseen, akin to the roads less traveled. Each role becomes a new adventure, an uncharted territory waiting to be explored. Drawing inspiration from Robert Frost’s immortal words, I’ve taken the unconventional path, and it has made all the difference. Life’s challenges are not obstacles but opportunities for growth and discovery. As an actor, I infuse each project with the same drive, dedication, adaptability, energy, improvisation, and passion that fueled my basketball career and professional endeavors. This artistic journey, filled with twists and turns, continues to unfold, promising an adventure that rivals any undertaken before.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Our journey must include the ultimate kid-friendly adventures of Disneyland and Universal Studios. Brace yourselves for a rollercoaster of fun and magic. The laughter of kids and the joyous screams of teens create an atmosphere of pure delight. Be prepared for a day that will test our sanity but will undoubtedly create memories that last a lifetime. After the whirlwind of theme parks, we might opt for a laid-back recovery day at Venice Beach. Wandering around the canals, exploring quirky shops, and people-watching provide a delightful change of pace. The soothing sound of waves lapping against the shore serves as a backdrop to our leisurely day, spent soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of this iconic Californian beach. I always enjoy embarking on a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway, we let the beauty of the coastline unfold before us. With kids in tow, we make pit stops at various beach towns, allowing them to choose which sandy haven captures their imagination. A progressive lunch and dinner along the beaches become a delightful culinary journey, with each spot offering its own unique charm. The fall and winter seasons add a touch of tranquility, making this coastal escapade even more special. For a unique and educational experience, we head to the La Brea Tar Pits. The kids are captivated by the prehistoric treasures, marveling at the fossils and gaining a hands-on understanding of our planet’s ancient history. The pits offer a blend of adventure and learning, making it a must-visit destination for families.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Salute to my respite “A Year in Provence” by the late Peter Mayle! In the enchanting pages of “A Year in Provence,” Peter Mayle masterfully crafts a tapestry that transcends the ordinary and elevates the soul. This shout-out is a heartfelt tribute to a literary gem that for years serves as my go-to recharge when life’s pace becomes a bit too frenetic. Mayle’s narrative is not just a journey; it’s a celebration of the little things that make life extraordinary. It’s a reminder that the joy lies not just in reaching the destination but in relishing the path we traverse. In those pages, I rediscover the art of living in the moment, of savoring the richness of each experience.
Immersing myself in Mayle’s vivid characters, picturesque landscapes, and the tantalizing allure of Provencal food and drink transports me to a world that I can practically smell and touch. It’s a literary escape that goes beyond the confines of the page, seeping into my consciousness and leaving an indelible mark.
As I reflect on this book, an automatic relaxation washes over me, infusing an extra spring into my step. The mere thought of it is a passport to tranquility, a reminder to slow down and appreciate life’s simple pleasures.
So, here’s to Peter Mayle, whose words continue to rejuvenate my spirit and creativity. Now, with a nod to Provencal charm, I raise a glass of wine and break bread, for his legacy lives on in the delightful escape he crafted, a timeless source of solace and joy. Cheers to “A Year in Provence”!

Website: JC-Hoffman.com

Instagram: @jchoffman.actor

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/jc-hoffman

Image Credits
Headshots and photos by Lenny Rodgers and Fr3deR1cK Film Festival pic-@dudestin on IG