Today we’d like to introduce you to Maxwell Marcus.
Maxwell, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Ever since I can remember, I have sought to incite the joy, wonder, and curiosity in those around me; to spread light, I had a lot of energy as a kid (still do) and it made me feel good when that energy could be directed towards helping others. I loved movies and their stories were always there for me in my times of need; I looked up at the screen and learned all about the world, it inspired me deeply to dream; and helped me learn who I wanted to be in my life.
I started acting in my youth and garnered Second Runner-Up Child actor of the Year at IMTA’s New York Conference; but made an early choice to focus on Martial Arts, School, and Sports (Rugby and Baseball). It was in high school at the age of 15 that I discovered Professional Wrestling and fell in love. I started training at the age of 15.
The synergy between storytelling and martial arts drove me to push my body and mind beyond my perceived limits and I debuted on the independent Circuit a few years later; under the moniker of “MAXWELL ‘M1’ ABRAMS”.
I performed matches in between my studies at Muhlenberg College; and it was there that I majored in both Acting and Media Communications to further my craft as a storyteller.
I soon became an apprentice of the OYL Theater Company in Greece where we went on tour; devising and performing ‘Hesiod’s Theogony’. It was there training in Suzuki-style Acting in the mountains that I found my way back to realizing my early childhood dream of being an actor; and chose to redirect all of my energy to that craft. When I returned to the States and graduated in 2020: I dove into my career as an Actor headfirst and quickly picked up the lead role in the Indie Film ‘Sagacity’ on the East Coast; before packing up and moving to Los Angeles!
Since arriving, I have worked on various projects, including the ‘Internationally Award Winning’ Independent Feature Film: “Reveille”, which took home Best Picture at the Brussels International Film Festival.
I train weekly in Jiujitsu, Fight Choreography, and Horsemanship to keep my skills for the screen primed and ready!
I currently have a few historically driven projects in the works; which is exciting because I get to honor and explore history while pushing myself further in the craft; and with hope, learning about myself and inspiring others to dream!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I’m really grateful for my journey thus far; it has been messy and terrifying at times, but I like a good challenge.
In all honesty I think most of the struggles I have faced were in many cases, rooted in my own perception. There is always something to fear or worry about IF we are looking for it; but the little victories are everywhere. It is a costly venture to pick up your life and move across the country to LA; certainly monetarily, but the biggest price I pay is the opportunity cost of time spent with my family, partner, and friends. I miss my loved ones very much.
I chose to become a Professional Wrestler at the age of 15, after I saw a man get hit over the head with a steel chair; and while there was blood coming down on his forehead, covering his eyes, he wiped it away; and laughed. From that day on I decided who I wanted to be in my life. I wanted to be able to face each struggle and laugh.
– I used to think I needed to struggle to succeed; and this carries some truth. Pressure is essential; however, the struggle doesn’t always have to be punishment if we are open to taking a step back, there may be grace to be found in it.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a Screen Actor with a deep focus on dramatic and action-packed work. I used to put my body on the line every night, going into the wrestling ring and trading beatings with monsters among men. I love cheering for the underdog. I love being able to inspire others to persevere in life; to serve the audience wonder and awe by connecting with artists. I specialize in acting for the screen; which has been my field for the last four years. Uniquely I train various Martial Arts throughout the week; with a deep focus on Jiujitsu. I love working with horses and train weekly to hone my riding skills.
I’m most proud of my heart, my can-do attitude, and my willingness to be of service. When I was in JROTC there was an acronym for “Leadership” we recited: Loyalty. Duty. Respect. Selfless Service. Honor. Integrity. Personal Courage. I want to show up for the people in my work and in my life with love, support, and respect; courage and discipline.
I strive for honesty and finding truth in my work and I love collaborating with and being of service to other artists.
Do you have any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
One of my favorite childhood memories was getting to perform at the International Modeling and Talent Association Conference. I was 9 years old, and I’m so forever grateful that my mom chaperoned me for the road trip there. It was a great bonding experience and I got to really be a Professional Actor for the first time in my life and felt like I was finally in a place that understood what I have to offer; and that my energy was free to dance and play joyfully.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.maxwelldavidmarcus.com
- Other: imdb.me/maxwell
Image Credits
Allwhat Productions, Davison Photography, Frank Boris Photography, Owong Productions
