HawkeTalk 148. Orlando Jones: Writer, Performer & Pop Culture Disruptor Across Three Decades
In this episode of HawkeTalk, I sit down with Orlando Jones, actor, comedian, writer, and creative powerhouse, to explore the winding journey that took him from Mobile, Alabama to some of Hollywood’s biggest stages. Before he became a breakout star on Mad TV, Orlando launched a successful ad agency at 18, dropped out of college, and got his first TV writing gig on A Different World thanks to mentors who saw his potential and a willingness to listen more than speak.
Orlando opens up about learning the art of the writers’ room, co-creating the hit show Martin, and being mentored by legends like Gene Hackman and Lawrence Fishburne. We dive into his dramatic turn in films like Magnolia, his love of stage work, and his newest venture as CMO of Space Milk, a vegan performance nutrition brand. Through it all, Orlando shares why humility, curiosity, and connection, not clout, are what fuel lasting careers and meaningful storytelling.
In this episode:
- (00:00) Introduction to Hawke Talk podcast
- (06:59) Starting a career in advertising
- (15:17) From writing to acting
- (25:24) Rise to fame with Mad TV
- (33:50) Transitioning to drama and high-profile projects
- (42:43) Mentorship and career evolution
- (46:16) Current ventures and future plans
- (51:07) Advice for aspiring professionals
Hawke Media
- https://www.linkedin.com/company/hawkemedia/
- https://www.instagram.com/hawkemedia/?hl=en
- https://hawkemedia.com/
- https://twitter.com/hawkemedia
- https://www.facebook.com/hawkemedia/
About Our Guest
Orlando Jones is an American actor, comedian, writer, and producer known for his dynamic presence on screen and behind the scenes. He launched his career as a teen entrepreneur, founding his own ad agency at 18 before breaking into television as a writer on A Different World and co-creator of Martin. Orlando became a household name as an original cast member on Mad TV, later starring in cult favorites like The Replacements, Double Take, and acclaimed series such as American Gods and Sleepy Hollow.
In addition to his work in comedy and drama, Orlando is now the Chief Marketing Officer of Space Milk, a vegan performance nutrition brand, and continues to blend storytelling with innovation. Whether writing, acting, or producing, Orlando brings a rare mix of humor, intellect, and hustle to everything he does.
Orlando Jones
- Orlando Jones Website
- Orlando Jones on Instagram
- Orlando Jones on X
- Orlando Jones IMDb
- Space Milk Website
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