JJ Onyx

JJ Onyx is a Los Angeles-based actor and director. Born in Detroit, Michigan JJ describes his childhood years as difficult but 'All-American,' growing up in the Midwest in a lower-middle class home. His father was a factory worker and his Mom was running the house. They provided the best life possible for such difficult times. Although by all standards they were considered poor, his parents still managed to buy a cabin on the lake that him and his sister enjoyed during school break every summer. JJ spent much of his childhood at that cabin in the upper part of Michigan, fishing, riding bikes, boating, swimming and hiking in the woods. As a kid, his mother put him in various activities trying to find the perfect match for his big personality. From roller skating, bowling, volleyball and finally ended up in dance class. JJ was the only male dancer in class and learned to have tough skin . JJ attended Our Lady Queen Of Apostles in Hamtramck, Michigan. Until the commute became too costly and him and his sister transferred to public school. He excelled in public school and won awards for service and community work. As a dancer, it was only natural that acting would become a part of his life and an opportunity to express himself. He found himself emerged in theater and performing both on stage and at community events. Although he considers himself a shy person, he feels he became the life of the party or class clown to try to overcome his shyness. JJ Graduated high school early and joined the military in hopes of a better life. He went to the US Naval Corpsman training school after spending a short time on the submarine tender USS Sperry. Once he was assigned to Balboa hospital as a delivery room nurse and settled into a regular schedule he sought out Dance schools. He was awarded a full scholarship to the Stage Seven Dance school.. Working the Delivery Room during the day and dancing at night was a fun and exciting time for him.. He participated in many local dance companies and productions but still wanted to make the move to Los Angeles to pursuit an acting career. JJ moved to Los Angeles in the mid-90s to pursue his acting and dance career. Although the first feature film audition he went on, he landed the part, it wasn't enough to survive the difficult LA life. He decided to rely on his dance training and went to work in Vegas. While in the show Jubilee his manager introduced him to a female magician "Joanie Spina", who use to be the artistic director for David Copperfield . JJ and Joanie became instant friends and worked in wonderful places like The Apollo in Dusseldorf, Germany, Portugal, France, Atlantic City, Boston to name a few. Joanie became ill and passed away bringing an end to their incredible friendship. JJ moved back to Los Angeles and is going full speed ahead with his acting career. JJ also enjoys using his photography skills to participate in philanthropic events. Donating his time for Aids Health Foundation events, donating art work to raise funds, photographing events for non profits and participating in many fundraisers to help the fight against AIDS. He also is a huge animal lover and believes strongly in dog and cat rescues.