Jerod Haynes was born and raised on Chicago’s South Side. He is excited to join and work with Marin Theatre Company in the 2017 production of Native Son. Last season, he appeared as Bigger in Court Theatre and American Blues Theater’s world-premiere production of Native Son, taking home the Joseph Jefferson Award for Actor in a Principal Role for his performance. He also received an award nomination for his portrayal of Jay Jackson in American Theatre Company’s production of The Royale, directed by Jaime Castaneda (a play loosely based on the first African-American heavyweight boxer, Jack Johnson). Mr. Haynes has also played Citizen Barlow in Court’s production of August Wilson’s Gem of the Ocean (2015, directed by Ron O.J. Parson), Canewell in Court’s production of August Wilson’s Seven Guitars (2014, directed by Ron O.J. Parson), and Walter Lee in Timeline Theatre’s production of A Raisin in the Sun (2013, directed by Ron O.J. Parson). Other theatre credits include: Columbinus (2013) at ATC, Tom Robinson in Milwaukee Repertory Theater’s production of To Kill a Mockingbird (2012), and appearances in eta Creative Arts Foundation’s productions of Contribution and Greensboro 4: Downpayment on Manhood. Film/TV credits: Mr. Haynes plays Tommy in Southside with You, about the Obamas’ first date; Sense8 (Netflix); Empire and The Mob Doctor (Fox); Consumed and Betrayal (ABC); and Crisis (NBC). Mr. Haynes studied at the British American Drama Academy and finished the training program at the Acting Studio Chicago. He thanks God and his family, and dedicates his work to his daughter, Jalaiya.