Today we’d like to introduce you to Lovensky Jean-Baptiste.
Hi Lovensky, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I always knew I wanted to be in L.A. I was that kid glued to movies and TV, convinced I’d end up in Hollywood somehow. Back in small-town Florida, I even started my own kids’ show on local TV.
When I was wrapping up undergrad at Florida State, my advisor asked if I’d ever thought about grad school. I remember looking him dead in the eye and saying, “Hell no!” Cut to two months later, I’m in a UCLA post-grad program, knee-deep in my MFA. So, yeah… never say never.
Anyways my second year, I got “discovered.” I’m not a big fan of that word but it really felt like I was invisible one day then all of the sudden seen. One of my professors brought in a manager to watch us do monologues. I went straight after him like I was auditioning to be his client. He signed me—no resume, no reel, just raw energy—and somehow, I booked my very first audition. That never happens. Like ever. But there I was: guest-starring on *The Closer*, Kevin Bacon strumming his guitar in video village. I’m 22, thinking, “Damn… this is easy.” Spoiler alert—it wasn’t. But I was hooked. Despite my rep trying to pull me out of school and into the game full-time, I stuck it out and finished my degree, sneaking in a few more guest spots along the way.
I got a big recurring on “24”. That show was pretty popular back then, and it put me on the radar for some major roles. That’s when the real grind set in. I felt the sting of those “almosts”—those close calls that keep you up at night. But hey, it all worked out. I’ve built a career out of stories I’m proud of, beautiful relationships, projects I believed in, and characters that left a mark.
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?
It definitely wasn’t smooth. In acting, the road forward is rarely straight—it’s all curves, detours, and U-turns. Put it this way: when I was just starting out, I made a sheet numbered 1 to 100, with blank spaces next to each number. I told myself I wouldn’t even think about quitting until I filled up every single space with roles I did NOT book. I think 100 was a Grey’s Anatomy gig.
I went through that list so fast.
One of the biggest challenges has been getting casting directors to see me in a new light. Early on, I started playing around with dialects and character voices—which helped me stand out—but then they started pegging me for a very specific kind of guy. And once that happened, it was tough to break out of that box.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m Lovensky Jean-Baptiste, a seasoned character actor with a diverse portfolio that spans television, film, and interactive media. Over the course of my career, I’ve had the privilege of transforming into an array of compelling characters, bringing unique voices and depth to every role. Currently, I’m starring in HBO’s critically acclaimed drama “The Pitt” as Sam Wallace. My work has been celebrated for its versatility and authenticity, with credits including Disney, Apple Films, and an upcoming animated series where I voice a main character. I’ve also left my mark in the gaming world, famously voicing Placide in “Cyberpunk”.
Educator and Mentor
In addition to my acting career, I am deeply passionate about education and nurturing the next generation of performers. I currently serve as an adjunct faculty member at Fullerton College, where I teach courses in Movement for Actors. Previously, I taught at UCLA and was a founding faculty member at Relativity School. My teaching philosophy blends classical techniques with modern innovations, emphasizing creativity, self-expression, and acting in new media.
Behind the camera and outside the classroom, I’m the founder of California Dream Trails, a groundbreaking tour company that merges sustainability with eco-tourism. Our mission is to provide unforgettable, environmentally responsible adventures in Southern California’s stunning natural landscapes. I’m proud to share that California Dream Trails is recognized as a preferred tour company on the Santa Monica City website, a testament to our commitment to excellence and environmental stewardship.
I’m dedicated to advancing social justice causes. As such, I’ve been fortunate to collaborate with iconic figures like Maya Angelou and Dr. Maulana Karenga on a landmark project aimed at celebrating the African American experience. I’ve been featured on national news outlets for my work with Anna Deavere Smith to bring awareness to The LA Uprising through a revisited performance of “Twilight: Los Angeles, 1992”. As a proud Haitian American, I strive to amplify the voices of underrepresented communities, using my platform to inspire change and celebrate diversity.
So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?
I’m all about my family. I’ve got a great wife and kid, and they’ve been my support system through the chaos of being an artist. I’m also big on teaching the arts. For me, being an artist saved my life on multiple occasions. Times when being in play put my focus in the right place during a hard time. Or playing a show with my band when I was in need of some creative energy. God knows where I would have been if I didn’t have arts so I like to share that with the younger generations.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://logline.media/lovensky-jean-baptiste
- Instagram: @mclovensky
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lovensky-jean-baptiste-83a40542/
- Other: https://imdb.me/love
