From his early days in the church choir and local plays as a child, to his current role as a music and theatre performing artist, Thomas Akins Jr. has always had a passion for the performing arts. With a strong background in music production and writing, he has added multiple layers to his creative repertoire. Through rigorous training and education in acting, comedy improvisation, and various techniques, Akins has honed his skills and prepared himself to deliver authentic and believable performances on film and television.
Akins’ body of work is diverse, ranging from feature films like “Prodigal Husband” to short films like “Junior,” which was submitted to the prestigious Sundance Film Festival. His talent has been recognized and celebrated, with his film “American Dreams” being selected by the IndieFEST. With attention to detail and a relentless work ethic, Akins is a valuable asset to any production team.
When asked about what inspired him to pursue a career in the entertainment industry, Akins reflects on his lifelong love for performing. Acting on camera allows him to tap into a childlike sense of wonder and excitement, a feeling that has been with him since his early years in the spotlight. It is this passion and enthusiasm that continue to drive him forward in his career.
However, Akins acknowledges that the entertainment industry comes with its challenges. The constant rejection and countless “no’s” can be difficult to handle, requiring a thick skin and resilience. Additionally, the unpredictable timing of success and career milestones can present its own set of challenges, requiring patience and perseverance.
One of Akins’ notable accomplishments so far was working on a Google commercial that aired during the Oscars in 2020. Seeing his face on screen brought excitement to his friends and the experience itself was enjoyable, thanks to the talented crew and cast involved.
To get to where he is today, Akins had to undergo personal changes, particularly in his attitude and mindset. Acting is an art form that defies strict logic, requiring openness and emotional connection. In his personal life, Akins has become more open-minded and in tune with his emotions to fuel his creative process.
In both his career and life, Akins follows core principles of respect and determination. He believes in working hard for what he wants and treating others with respect along the way. For aspiring performers, Akins offers valuable advice: never give up, work hard, and don’t try to control the exact timing of success. Instead, focus on enjoying the process and let success follow naturally.
As for upcoming projects, Akins has a short film in development called “Justice.” Expected to be released in 2024, the film tells the story of a detective who, despite appearing rough on the surface, is a kind and genuine person who comes to the rescue of a young girl. To stay connected with Thomas Akins Jr. and follow his journey, you can find him on Instagram and Twitter with the handle “iamthomasakins.” These platforms offer a glimpse into his life as a multifaceted performer and provide updates on his latest projects and endeavors.