Sam Mandel

Sam Mandel, an LA native, fell in love with acting as a child. He started his career at the age of nine, but not before embarking on the voyage of a lifetime. From ages 3-7, Sam sailed all over the world with his mom, dad, and older twin sisters on their sailboat. Since that time, which shaped his adventurous spirit and curious nature, he's earned over 40 principal credits in film, television, commercials, theatre, print, and voiceover. Noteworthy credits include: series regular on ABC/Disney pilot "The Big House," recurring guest star on Chris Rock's "Everybody Hates Chris" and Russell Simmons' "Hungry," co-star on DirecTV's "Kingdom," supporting role in the politically-charged feature film "The Last War Crime," featured in David Fincher's "The Social Network" and Bennett Miller's "Moneyball," and lead actor in The Fountain Theatre's West Coast Premiere of "The Chosen"; which grew into a six-month, sold-out run while garnering an Ovation Recommendation, LA Times Critic's Choice, and many other rave reviews. Sam has also been the "hero" in several national commercials (McDonald's, 23andMe, Bleacher Report, Pokémon, Discovery Channel) and a pin-up model for the Nice Jewish Guys Calendar 2019, celebrating the month of July; enough to make any Jewish mother plotz! Sam has honed his skills to become known as a versatile actor who shines in both comedy and drama. Having trained at The Groundlings and graduated from the Upright Citizens Brigade (UCB), he's a skilled improviser. He continues to write, direct, and act for his YouTube channel "Jungle Sketch Comedy," with partners Michael Tomasetti and DB Wilson; creating satires, parodies, and original concepts. In addition to acting, Sam enjoys directing. He earned four awards for "Best Director" at international film festivals with his directorial debut of "Charade," a music video he wrote, produced, and directed. He also enjoys writing poetry and raps and is crafting a studio album to be released in late 2019.