Meet James Austin Kerr | Actor/Filmmaker

We had the good fortune of connecting with James Austin Kerr and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi James Austin, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking.
Well, for one, it’s made my life way more exciting. I do all sorts of wild hobbies that the majority of people are often fearful of – I’ve never been afraid to jump out of a plane or dive into the depths of the ocean. I love it. Whether it’s career, or hobbies, risk taking is fundamental for growth and only improves your strength as an artist and finding your identity.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Actor/Filmmaker. I joke that I’ve been on pretty much every prime-time show that’s playing in a dentist office waiting room (NCIS, Criminal Minds, Bones, Scandal, etc.) It’s been and exciting yet strange journey. I moved to LA in 2009 and the industry/town has changed immensely since then. I had super long hair at the time, nearly down to my chest, and was scooped up by a modeling agency. I was grateful to snag some decent gigs with them which lead to me getting my first manager, which lead to co-stars, guest stars, and bigger roles in the years to follow. I learned that I loved the creative process of filmmaking as a whole just as much if not more than acting and I began writing, producing, and directing as well. I hope to be a part of the new generation of filmmakers that’s being ushered in right now – there’s so much fresh talent out there with incredible stories to tell and we’re all itching to be giving a chance.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Where do I begin?! The Arts District in DTLA is a favorite, with Little Tokyo right next door. EightyTwo arcade bar is a great, nostalgic place to start where you can play classic arcade games and pinball. Just up the way is Angel City Brewery which looks like it used to be an old fire station – awesome atmosphere and always fun games, themes, and DJs. The Little Tokyo Mall in the center of Little Tokyo (not to be confused with the Galleria) is super unique with lots of fun shops mostly devoted to Japan pop-culture. The food anywhere here is great, so many sushi, ramen, and dessert options.

Scuba diving is one of my favorite hobbies. If you’re able to take the trip to Casino Point on Catalina island and experience the kelp forests, it’s stunning.

The Santa Monica muscle beach area, just south of the pier is like my living room. I’m one of the crazy beach bums there always flying on the rings!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My parents. That goes without saying. They’ve been my support since day one of this journey and continue to be. I’m forever grateful for them. I’m originally from Oklahoma and the film and creative community there has given me so many amazing opportunities over the years. There are so many talent voices and leaders in my home state. My friend group in LA has been everything – they consist of industry professionals, photographers, writers, doctors, and teachers. I’ve learned so much from all of them.

Website: https://www.demoreel.com/james-austin-kerr

Instagram: @jamesaustinkerr

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/james.a.kerr.14

Image Credits
black and white smile & 6th street bridge (white t-shirt) – Kassee Shambora @kaseesphotography

beard headshot – Cameron Radice @cameronradice