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United States Jesse Williams has transitioned from high school teacher to acclaimed actor, director, and producer, known for his impactful roles and activism.
Paul & Shark announced Jesse Williams as its new global ambassador, highlighting his internationally acclaimed status as an actor and producer.
Luxury timepiece brand OMEGA welcomed Jesse Williams as a Friend of the Brand, recognizing his status as an actor, activist, and entrepreneur.
Jesse Williams partnered with the cannabis dispensary MedMen, collaborating with Oscar winner Spike Jonze on a spot for the brand.
Jesse Williams has worked with Adidas, among other brands, contributing to the Outdoor and Sporting Goods categories.
Jesse Williams has partnered with Boswell as part of his brand endorsements.
Jesse Williams has collaborated with Doughnut Plant in his endorsement activities.
Williams occasionally worked as a model, including for Kenneth Cole Productions, during college.
Williams modeled for Levi's while in college, though not pursuing modeling as a primary career.
Jesse Williams modeled for Tommy Hilfiger Corporation during his college years.
Jesse Williams modeled for Lane Bryant in 2012.
Jesse Wesley Williams was born on August 5, 1981, in Chicago, Illinois. His mother, Johanna Chase, is a professional potter, and his father, Reginald Williams, taught history. Williams graduated from Moses Brown School in Providence, Rhode Island, in 1998. He then attended Temple University, where he earned a double major in African American Studies and Film and Media Arts. Following his parents’ footsteps, Williams taught American Studies, African Studies, and English in the Philadelphia public school system for six years before pursuing an acting career.
In 2005, Williams began studying acting and was selected for the New York Actors Showcase presented by ABC Television. This opportunity led to his debut in a 2006 episode of ‘Law & Order’ and two episodes of ‘Greek.’ In 2008, he made his film debut in ‘The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2.’ A significant turning point in his career came in 2009 when he joined the cast of ABC’s ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ as surgical resident Dr. Jackson Avery, a role he maintained for 12 seasons and reprised for guest appearances. He also gained recognition for his role as Holden in the 2012 horror film ‘The Cabin in the Woods’ and as civil rights leader Rev. James Lawson in Lee Daniels’s 2013 film ‘The Butler.’
Beyond acting, Williams is an executive producer and director. He produced the Academy Award-winning short film ‘Two Distant Strangers’ (2020) and the documentary ‘Stay Woke: The Black Lives Matter Movement’ (2016). He has also directed episodes of ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ and ‘Rebel.’ In 2022, Williams made his Broadway debut in a revival of ‘Take Me Out,’ earning a Tony Award nomination for Best Featured Actor in a Play. He has a recurring role on Hulu’s ‘Only Murders in the Building’ (2023) and is involved in upcoming projects, including the TV series ‘Hotel Costiera’ (2025). Williams is also a notable activist, serving on the board of The Advancement Project and advocating for racial justice.
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