Justice Smith has emerged as one of Hollywood's most versatile young talents, captivating audiences with his performances in blockbuster franchises and critically acclaimed independent films. From his breakout role in Netflix's The Get Down to leading major franchise films like Detective Pikachu and Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom, the 30-year-old actor has proven his remarkable range across genres.
Born in Los Angeles and raised in Anaheim, California, Justice made history as a prominent LGBTQ+ actor in mainstream Hollywood, publicly coming out in 2020 during the Black Lives Matter protests. His recent starring role in A24's psychological horror I Saw the TV Glow (2024) earned widespread critical acclaim, solidifying his reputation as an actor drawn to challenging, thought-provoking material that pushes boundaries.
Justice Smith worked in many superhit films and television series. Know about Justice Smith's biography, affairs, age, birthday, father's name, mother's name, religion, boyfriend, Date of Birth, family, relationship, husband, marriage, Show list, annual salary & net worth, awards, height, weight, body measurements, controversies, new photos, and latest updates.
Real Name | Justice Elio Smith |
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Nick Name | Justice |
Profession | Actor |
Date of Birth | August 9, 1995 |
Age | 30 years (as of 2025) |
Birth Place | Los Angeles, California, United States |
Height | 5 feet 10 inches / 178 cm |
Weight | 163 lbs / 74 kg (approx.) |
Net Worth | $1 million (2025 estimate) |
Marital Status | Unmarried (In Relationship) |
Partner | Nicholas L. Ashe |
Nationality | American |
Ethnicity | Mixed (African-American, Caucasian, Italian, French-Canadian) |
Justice Elio Smith is famous as Justice and is a prominent figure in the Hollywood entertainment industry. He is renowned as an actor and is considered one of the most talented young performers in American cinema, known for choosing diverse and meaningful roles.
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Justice Smith's career trajectory showcases an actor committed to authenticity and representation in Hollywood. His breakthrough came with Baz Luhrmann's musical drama The Get Down, where he portrayed Ezekiel "Books" Figuero, a talented poet discovering his voice in 1970s Bronx hip-hop culture. The Netflix series introduced audiences to his natural charisma and emotional depth, establishing him as a rising talent to watch.
What distinguishes Justice from many young actors is his intentional career choices that prioritize meaningful storytelling over commercial appeal alone. He seamlessly transitions between blockbuster franchises and independent cinema, bringing the same level of commitment to every project. His performances in major studio films like Jurassic World and Detective Pikachu demonstrated his ability to anchor big-budget productions, while his work in films like All the Bright Places and I Saw the TV Glow revealed his capacity for nuanced, emotionally complex characters.
Justice's public coming out in 2020 marked a significant moment for LGBTQ+ representation in Hollywood. During the Black Lives Matter protests, he courageously shared his identity and relationship with actor Nicholas L. Ashe, using his platform to advocate for both racial justice and LGBTQ+ visibility. This authenticity has resonated deeply with fans who appreciate his willingness to be vulnerable and truthful about his experiences.
Beyond acting, Justice is recognized for his advocacy work and commitment to using his platform responsibly. He frequently speaks about issues affecting Black and LGBTQ+ communities, mental health awareness, and the importance of authentic representation in media. His genuine personality and thoughtful approach to fame have earned him respect across the entertainment industry.
Like other successful stars such as Charles Melton and Austin Butler, Justice Smith has carved a unique niche in the entertainment world as a young Black actor taking creative risks and championing diverse storytelling in Hollywood.
Justice Smith was born on August 9, 1995 in Los Angeles, California. He is the fifth of nine siblings in a large, blended family. His father is African-American, while his mother is Caucasian with Italian and French-Canadian heritage, giving Justice a rich multicultural background that influenced his worldview.
Growing up in Anaheim, California, Justice experienced a childhood filled with siblings and family dynamics that shaped his understanding of relationships and identity. His large family environment taught him collaboration, empathy, and the importance of finding his own voice among many. The diverse cultural heritage from both parents exposed him to different perspectives and traditions, contributing to his comfort with complex identity questions that would later inform his acting choices.
Justice's parents encouraged creative expression, though specific details about their professions remain private. The family supported his early interest in performance, recognizing his natural talent for storytelling and character work. His mixed-race identity meant navigating questions about belonging and representation from a young age, experiences that would later fuel his passion for authentic representation in entertainment.
Justice Smith completed his education at Orange County School of the Arts, graduating in 2013. This specialized performing arts school provided intensive training in theater, allowing Justice to develop his craft through rigorous coursework and numerous stage productions. He was a dedicated student who immersed himself in various theatrical performances around Orange County.
The Orange County School of the Arts proved instrumental in Justice's development as an actor, providing professional-level training in acting techniques, voice work, movement, and character analysis. He performed in multiple stage productions during his high school years, gaining valuable experience and confidence performing before live audiences. His teachers recognized his exceptional talent and encouraged his pursuit of a professional acting career.
Unlike many actors who pursue college theater programs, Justice chose to begin his professional career shortly after high school graduation. His solid foundation from the arts school equipped him with the technical skills and discipline needed to navigate professional auditions and set environments. This early start allowed him to land significant television and film roles while many peers were still in undergraduate programs.
Justice Smith is currently in a relationship with actor Nicholas L. Ashe. The couple has been together since before Justice's public coming out in June 2020, when he shared photos with Nicholas during a Black Trans Lives Matter protest in New Orleans, simultaneously announcing his queer identity and his relationship to the world.
Justice's decision to come out publicly was motivated by the intersection of his identities as a Black and queer person during a pivotal moment in American history. In his Instagram post, he wrote about standing with the Black trans community and using his visibility to amplify marginalized voices. Nicholas L. Ashe, also an actor known for roles in projects like Queen Sugar, has been a supportive partner throughout Justice's journey in Hollywood.
The couple maintains a relatively private relationship while occasionally sharing glimpses of their life on social media. Justice has spoken in interviews about the importance of authentic queer representation in media and how being out has freed him to take roles that resonate with his identity. He credits Nicholas with providing support and understanding as he navigates fame and advocacy work.
Justice Smith is known for his thoughtful and introspective personality. He enjoys reading, particularly science fiction and fantasy literature, and is an avid Pokémon fan who grew up playing the games and collecting cards. His love for Pokémon made landing the lead role in Detective Pikachu especially meaningful, fulfilling a childhood dream.
Favorite Genre | Science Fiction, Fantasy |
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Favorite Color | Blue |
Favorite Actor/Actress | Denzel Washington, Viola Davis |
Favorite Music | Hip-Hop, R&B, Alternative |
Hobbies | Reading, Gaming, Theater, Activism |
Favorite Destination | New Orleans, New York City |
Justice maintains a lifestyle that balances Hollywood demands with personal authenticity. He's passionate about mental health awareness and has been open about his own struggles with anxiety and depression, encouraging fans to seek help and normalize conversations about mental wellness. His spiritual beliefs emphasize compassion, justice, and community care, reflected in his consistent advocacy work. He actively supports organizations focused on LGBTQ+ youth, Black Lives Matter initiatives, and arts education programs. His down-to-earth approach to fame and genuine concern for social issues have made him a role model for young people navigating their own identity journeys.
Justice Smith started his professional career in 2014 with small television roles following his graduation from Orange County School of the Arts. His journey began with an appearance on Nickelodeon's The Thundermans, playing Angus in two episodes, followed by a minor role in the short film Trigger Finger as a boy at school.
Career Debut | |
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First TV Appearance | The Thundermans (2014) |
First Film | Trigger Finger (2014) |
Breakthrough Role | The Get Down (2016-2017) |
Character | Ezekiel "Books" Figuero |
Career Span | 2014–present |
Justice's early career involved the typical struggles of a young actor auditioning constantly while working survival jobs to support himself. He faced numerous rejections before landing small television roles that provided valuable on-set experience. These early years taught him professionalism, resilience, and the importance of preparation, as he often competed against hundreds of actors for minor roles.
The breakthrough came when Baz Luhrmann cast him as Ezekiel "Books" Figuero in Netflix's ambitious musical drama The Get Down. This role required Justice to sing, dance, and deliver complex emotional performances while embodying the birth of hip-hop culture in 1970s New York. Working with Luhrmann's demanding directorial style pushed Justice's abilities and introduced him to international audiences. Though the series was canceled after one season due to high production costs, it established Justice as a serious talent capable of leading a major production.
Justice Smith gained massive recognition when he was cast as Franklin Webb in Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom (2018), joining the iconic franchise alongside Chris Pratt and Bryce Dallas Howard. His character, a nervous but brilliant systems analyst, provided comic relief while showcasing his ability to hold his own in a major studio blockbuster that earned over $1.3 billion worldwide.
The following year brought his most significant leading role in Pokémon Detective Pikachu (2019), where Justice starred as Tim Goodman opposite Ryan Reynolds' voice performance as Pikachu. The film's success, grossing over $433 million globally, positioned Justice as a bankable lead capable of anchoring family-friendly franchises. His genuine love for Pokémon translated to an authentic performance that resonated with longtime fans and newcomers alike.
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Justice demonstrated his dramatic range with All the Bright Places (2020), a Netflix adaptation where he portrayed Theodore Finch, a teenager struggling with mental illness, opposite Elle Fanning. The emotionally demanding role showcased his ability to convey vulnerability and pain, earning praise for handling the sensitive subject matter with care and authenticity. His commitment to accurately representing mental health struggles brought depth to a character that could have become stereotypical.
His career reached new artistic heights with Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves (2023), where he played Simon Aumar in the ensemble adventure-comedy, and especially with I Saw the TV Glow (2024), Jane Schoenbrun's A24 psychological horror that premiered at Sundance. The latter earned critical acclaim for its exploration of identity, trans allegory, and suburban alienation, with Justice's performance as Owen described as career-best work that captured the film's haunting themes with remarkable subtlety.
Currently, Justice continues balancing commercial projects with independent cinema. He appeared in The American Society of Magical Negroes (2024), a satirical fantasy comedy that critiqued Hollywood tropes. His upcoming projects include potential franchise returns and original properties that align with his commitment to meaningful storytelling and authentic representation in Hollywood.
Justice Smith has achieved notable financial success through his entertainment career, with an estimated net worth of approximately $1 million as of 2025. His wealth comes primarily from his television work, major film roles in blockbuster franchises, and selective independent film projects.
Net Worth (2025) | $1 million (approx.) |
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Annual Income | $200,000+ (estimated) |
Monthly Income | $15,000-20,000 (estimated) |
Per Movie Fee | $100,000-$300,000+ (varies by project) |
Source of Income | Acting in films and television |
Other Income Sources | Appearances, Endorsements |
Justice's income sources include substantial salaries from major studio films like Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom and Detective Pikachu, which likely commanded six-figure fees given the franchise scope. His Netflix projects, including The Get Down and All the Bright Places provided consistent television income, while his A24 and independent film work reflects his artistic priorities even when commercial fees might be lower.
Unlike many actors who pursue extensive brand endorsement deals, Justice has maintained selective partnerships that align with his values and public image. His focus remains primarily on building a sustainable acting career through diverse role selections rather than maximizing short-term commercial opportunities. This approach reflects his artistic integrity and long-term career vision.
Justice Smith maintains a relatively modest lifestyle compared to many Hollywood actors at similar career stages. He resides in Los Angeles, maintaining privacy about specific real estate holdings. His approach to wealth emphasizes financial security and artistic freedom rather than conspicuous consumption.
Primary Residence | Los Angeles, California - Value undisclosed |
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Cars | Details kept private |
Investments | Details not publicly disclosed |
Lifestyle | Modest, focused on sustainability and authenticity |
Charitable Giving | Supports LGBTQ+ and racial justice organizations |
Height | 5 feet 10 inches / 178 cm |
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Weight | 163 lbs / 74 kg (approx.) |
Body Type | Lean, Athletic |
Eye Color | Dark Brown |
Hair Color | Black |
Skin Tone | Brown |
Distinctive Features | Expressive eyes, warm smile, natural curly hair |
Justice Smith is known for his approachable and authentic personal style that reflects his personality. Standing at 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm) and weighing approximately 163-174 pounds (74 kg), he maintains a lean, athletic build through regular fitness activities including yoga, hiking, and functional training that prioritizes wellness over aesthetics.
Justice's fashion sense blends contemporary streetwear with classic tailoring, creating looks that feel both current and timeless. He frequently incorporates bold colors, interesting textures, and statement accessories into his wardrobe. His red carpet appearances showcase a willingness to take fashion risks, often choosing designers who support diversity and sustainability in fashion. He's not afraid to experiment with patterns, layering, and unconventional silhouettes that express his creative personality.
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Justice Smith has received recognition for his outstanding contribution to the entertainment industry, particularly for his theater work and impactful film performances. While his film career continues building toward major award recognition, his stage work earned early critical acclaim.
Year | Award | Category | Work | Result |
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2017 | Drama Desk Award | Outstanding Featured Actor in a Play | Yen | Nominated |
2017 | Forbes 30 Under 30 | Hollywood & Entertainment | Career Achievement | Honored |
Justice Smith achieved significant recognition when he was named to Forbes magazine's 30 Under 30 – Hollywood & Entertainment list in 2017, acknowledging his rapid rise and potential impact on the entertainment industry. This honor came following his breakthrough performance in The Get Down and his expanding film career.
His Drama Desk Award nomination for Outstanding Featured Actor in a Play for his performance in Yen demonstrated his stage capabilities before transitioning fully to screen work. The nomination recognized his powerful portrayal in Anna Jordan's intense two-hander play about neglected teenagers, showcasing his ability to handle emotionally demanding material with maturity beyond his years.
Beyond formal awards, Justice holds cultural significance as one of the few openly queer Black actors leading major Hollywood franchises. His representation in films like Detective Pikachu and Dungeons & Dragons provides visibility for LGBTQ+ audiences who rarely see themselves reflected as action heroes and romantic leads. His critical acclaim for I Saw the TV Glow positions him for potential future award recognition as his career continues evolving.
Currently, Justice Smith is focusing on selective projects that challenge him artistically. His psychological horror I Saw the TV Glow premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in January 2024 before receiving a theatrical release by A24 in May, and began streaming on Max in September 2024, introducing his acclaimed performance to wider audiences.
Project | Role | Director/Creator | Release Date | Status |
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I Saw the TV Glow | Owen | Jane Schoenbrun | May 2024 | Released, Streaming on Max |
The American Society of Magical Negroes | Supporting Role | Kobi Libii | March 2024 | Released |
Untitled Projects | TBA | TBA | TBA | In Development |
Justice recently completed press tours for I Saw the TV Glow, where he discussed the film's themes of identity, trans allegory, and suburban alienation in numerous interviews. The film, which co-stars Brigette Lundy-Paine, follows two teenage outcasts who bond over a mysterious television show before the boundary between TV and reality begins to blur. Critics have praised Justice's performance as some of his most nuanced and emotionally complex work to date.
In interviews, Justice has discussed his approach to selecting roles, emphasizing his desire to work with visionary directors who prioritize authentic storytelling. He's expressed interest in exploring more queer narratives, science fiction projects, and character-driven dramas that challenge conventional Hollywood formulas. His commitment to representation extends beyond his own roles to advocating for diverse casting and behind-the-camera talent.
Future career plans remain somewhat private, though Justice has mentioned interest in potential stage returns and possibly exploring directing or producing in the future. He continues balancing commercial viability with artistic integrity, seeking projects that resonate personally while reaching broad audiences. His long-term goals emphasize sustainability, creative fulfillment, and using his platform to amplify marginalized voices in entertainment.
Latest Justice Smith Updates:
Justice Smith has maintained a relatively controversy-free public image throughout his career, focusing on his craft and advocacy work rather than generating tabloid headlines. His challenges have centered primarily on navigating Hollywood as a young Black queer actor and using his platform responsibly during turbulent social moments.
The most significant public moment came with his 2020 coming out during the Black Lives Matter protests. While overwhelmingly supported, Justice faced some backlash from conservative commentators and lost some followers who disagreed with his activism. He addressed this gracefully, emphasizing that his platform exists to advocate for marginalized communities and that authentic representation matters more than universal approval.
Justice has been open about struggling with anxiety and depression, particularly during intense filming schedules and award season campaigns. He's discussed the pressure of being one of the few openly queer Black actors in major franchises and the responsibility he feels to represent his communities authentically. Rather than hiding these struggles, he's used them to advocate for mental health resources and normalize conversations about wellness in entertainment.
Some online discourse has questioned whether Justice should focus more on commercial blockbusters versus independent films, debating his career strategy and marketability. Justice has addressed these concerns by emphasizing his commitment to artistic fulfillment over box office metrics alone, believing sustainable careers require creative satisfaction alongside commercial success.
Currently, Justice's public image reflects his authentic self—a thoughtful artist committed to meaningful storytelling, social justice, and mental health advocacy. He's regarded as professional, talented, and genuine by industry peers and fans. His willingness to be vulnerable and honest about his experiences has created deep connections with audiences who appreciate his refusal to present a manufactured Hollywood persona.
Here are some fascinating and lesser-known facts about Justice Smith that showcase his unique personality and journey:
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Justice Smith maintains an active social media presence with hundreds of thousands of followers across platforms. He uses his accounts to share professional updates, advocate for social causes, and connect authentically with fans about topics ranging from mental health to LGBTQ+ rights.
Platform | Handle | Followers | Content Type |
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@standup4justice | 800K+ followers | Personal moments, advocacy work, BTS content, relationship posts | |
Twitter/X | @standup4justice | 300K+ followers | Social commentary, industry news, fan interaction |
Official Fan Pages | Limited presence | Fan community updates | |
IMDb | Justice Smith | N/A | Professional filmography |
Justice Smith's social media strategy focuses on authenticity and advocacy rather than carefully curated celebrity content. His most viral posts include his 2020 coming out announcement during Black Lives Matter protests, behind-the-scenes content from I Saw the TV Glow, and candid moments with partner Nicholas L. Ashe. He regularly uses his platform to amplify Black and LGBTQ+ voices, promote mental health resources, and encourage civic engagement.
His engagement rates remain strong because fans appreciate his genuine interactions and willingness to discuss difficult topics. Justice frequently shares book recommendations, music discoveries, and thoughtful reflections on identity, representation, and industry challenges. Unlike many celebrities who maintain distance from followers, he occasionally responds to comments and messages, creating meaningful connections with his audience while maintaining healthy boundaries about privacy.
Justice Smith was born on August 9, 1995, and is currently 30 years old as of 2025. He celebrates his birthday every August as a Leo zodiac sign.
Justice Smith stands 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm) tall and weighs approximately 163-174 pounds (74 kg). He maintains his physique through yoga, hiking, and functional fitness training.
Justice Smith is not married but is in a committed relationship with actor Nicholas L. Ashe. The couple has been together since before Justice's public coming out in June 2020.
No, Justice Smith does not have any children. He has focused primarily on building his acting career and advocacy work, and has not publicly discussed family planning.
Justice Smith graduated from Orange County School of the Arts in 2013, where he received intensive performing arts training in theater and acting techniques before beginning his professional career.
Justice Smith is American with mixed ethnicity. His father is African-American, and his mother is Caucasian with Italian and French-Canadian heritage, giving him a diverse cultural background.
Justice Smith was born in Los Angeles, California, on August 9, 1995, and was raised in Anaheim, California. He is the fifth of nine siblings in a large blended family.
Justice Smith has eight siblings, being the fifth of nine children total in his blended family. Growing up with so many siblings influenced his collaborative nature and empathy.
Justice Smith started his professional career in 2014 with small television roles, including The Thundermans on Nickelodeon. His breakthrough came in 2016 when Baz Luhrmann cast him as the lead in Netflix's The Get Down.
Justice Smith's biggest hits include Detective Pikachu (2019), which earned over $433 million globally, where he played the lead role, and Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom (2018), which grossed over $1.3 billion worldwide.
In Pokémon Detective Pikachu (2019), Justice Smith played Tim Goodman, the lead human character who teams up with Detective Pikachu (voiced by Ryan Reynolds) to solve mysteries in Ryme City.
Yes, Justice Smith played Franklin Webb in Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom (2018), a nervous but brilliant systems analyst who joins the rescue mission to save dinosaurs from a volcanic eruption.
Justice Smith's latest major film is I Saw the TV Glow (2024), an A24 psychological horror directed by Jane Schoenbrun that premiered at Sundance and earned critical acclaim for his performance as Owen.
Justice Smith was nominated for a Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Featured Actor in a Play for his performance in Yen (2017). He was also honored on Forbes' 30 Under 30 – Hollywood & Entertainment list in 2017.
Justice Smith starred in Netflix's The Get Down (2016-2017) as Ezekiel "Books" Figuero, his breakthrough television role. He also appeared in The Thundermans, Masterclass, and other series early in his career.
Yes, Justice Smith played Simon Aumar, a sorcerer, in Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves (2023), an ensemble adventure-comedy based on the popular role-playing game.
In The Get Down (2016-2017), Justice Smith played Ezekiel "Books" Figuero, a talented poet discovering hip-hop culture in the 1970s Bronx. The role required singing, dancing, and complex dramatic performance.
Yes, Justice Smith publicly came out as queer in June 2020 during the Black Lives Matter protests. He announced his identity and relationship with actor Nicholas L. Ashe simultaneously through Instagram.
Justice Smith is dating actor Nicholas L. Ashe, known for his role in Queen Sugar. They have been together since before Justice's public coming out in 2020 and occasionally share their relationship on social media.
Justice Smith came out publicly on June 2, 2020, through an Instagram post at a Black Trans Lives Matter protest in New Orleans. He shared photos with his partner Nicholas L. Ashe while advocating for LGBTQ+ and Black communities.
Justice Smith's coming out was significant because he became one of the few openly queer Black actors leading major Hollywood franchises like Jurassic World and Pokémon, providing crucial representation for LGBTQ+ audiences.
As of 2025, Justice Smith's estimated net worth is approximately $1 million. He earned his wealth through major film franchises, television work, and selective independent film projects.
Justice Smith reportedly charges between $100,000 to $300,000+ per film role, depending on the project budget and his role size. Major franchise films command higher fees than independent productions.
While exact figures aren't publicly disclosed, as the lead actor in Detective Pikachu, Justice Smith likely earned a substantial six-figure salary plus potential backend participation from the film's $433 million box office.
Justice Smith resides in Los Angeles, California, where he maintains his primary residence. Specific details about his home and property are kept private for security and privacy reasons.
Yes, Justice Smith is an avid Pokémon fan who grew up playing the games and collecting cards. Landing the lead role in Detective Pikachu was a childhood dream fulfilled for him.
Justice Smith enjoys reading science fiction and fantasy novels, playing Dungeons & Dragons with friends, collecting vinyl records, exploring obscure R&B and soul music, and performing spoken word poetry.
Yes, Justice Smith actively participates in Dungeons & Dragons campaigns with friends, which made his role as Simon the sorcerer in Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves particularly meaningful and authentic.
Justice Smith enjoys science fiction and fantasy literature, often sharing book recommendations with fans on social media. He's particularly drawn to stories exploring identity, belonging, and social themes.
Justice Smith actively supports LGBTQ+ rights, Black Lives Matter, mental health awareness, and arts education programs. He volunteers with LGBTQ+ youth organizations and regularly uses his platform for advocacy.
Yes, Justice Smith has been open about his struggles with anxiety and depression, advocating for mental health resources and normalizing conversations about wellness. He practices meditation and mindfulness, sharing these tools with fans.
When Justice Smith came out in June 2020, he posted about standing with the Black trans community during Black Lives Matter protests, explaining that as a Black queer man, he felt compelled to use his visibility to amplify marginalized voices.
I Saw the TV Glow (2024) is an A24 psychological horror film where Justice Smith plays Owen, a teenager who bonds with another outcast over a mysterious TV show before reality begins to blur. The film explores themes of identity and trans allegory.
As of 2025, there are no confirmed plans for Justice Smith to return to the Jurassic World franchise. His character, Franklin Webb, appeared in Fallen Kingdom but was not included in Jurassic World Dominion.
Yes, Justice Smith is active on Instagram (@standup4justice) with over 800K followers and Twitter/X (@standup4justice) with 300K+ followers. He uses both platforms for advocacy, personal updates, and connecting with fans.
As of 2025, Justice Smith's upcoming projects remain largely unannounced. He's expressed interest in more queer narratives, science fiction projects, and potentially returning to theater work in the future.
Yes, Justice Smith performed extensively in theater before transitioning to screen work. He received a Drama Desk Award nomination for his performance in the play Yen (2017) and has expressed interest in returning to the stage.
Justice Smith's career is unique for balancing major Hollywood franchises with critically acclaimed independent films, while being one of the few openly queer Black actors leading mainstream productions and prioritizing authentic representation.
No, Justice Smith did not attend college. He chose to begin his professional acting career immediately after graduating from Orange County School of the Arts in 2013.
Justice Smith's breakthrough role was Ezekiel "Books" Figuero in Baz Luhrmann's Netflix series The Get Down (2016-2017), which introduced him to international audiences and led to major film opportunities.
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