Columbus Short

Born Columbus Keith Short, Jr. on September 19, 1982, in Kansas City, Missouri, Columbus Short began his entertainment career at a young age. His family later moved to Los Angeles, where his mother, Janette, ran a talent agency. Short appeared in television commercials for brands such as Mountain Dew, Denny’s Restaurant, Nike, and Pizza Hut during his early career. At a young age, he joined the touring production of the Broadway show “Stomp!” after graduating early from high school, gaining valuable professional stage experience. Following his time with “Stomp!”, he transitioned into choreography, notably serving as the choreographer for Britney Spears’ “In the Zone” tour.

Short’s acting career began to gain momentum with his debut as a dancer in “You Got Served” (2004) and a role in “War of the Worlds” (2005). His breakthrough came with the lead role of DJ in “Stomp the Yard” (2007), a film that was number one at the box office for two consecutive weeks and grossed over $73.4 million. He continued to take on significant roles in films such as “This Christmas” (2007), “Cadillac Records” (2008), where he portrayed Little Walter, and “The Losers” (2010). On television, Short was a main cast member for the first three seasons of the hit series “Scandal” as Harrison Wright, a role for which he gained widespread recognition.

Throughout his career, Short has demonstrated versatility, also taking on roles in TV shows like “ER,” “Judging Amy,” and “Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip.” He has received critical acclaim, including two Black Reel Awards in 2008 for Best Ensemble alongside the cast of “Cadillac Records,” and an Image Award in 2009 for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Motion Picture for the same film. In recent years, Short has also expanded his work into production and writing, with projects such as executive producing “Strange Fruit” (2008) and producing “Finding Tony” (2024).