Could a career, forged in the crucible of artistic ambition and nurtured by the vibrant landscape of Los Angeles, truly ascend to the heights of cinematic recognition? Justice Elio Smith, an American actor whose name has become synonymous with captivating performances, offers a resounding affirmation of this very question.
Born on August 9, 1995, in the sun-drenched city of Los Angeles, Smith's journey to the silver screen began not on a studio lot, but within a family brimming with artistic expression. The middle child of nine, Smith's early years were steeped in the rhythms of creativity, with both parents weaving their lives through the tapestry of music. This upbringing, a symphony of familial support and creative influence, undoubtedly served as the foundation upon which his acting aspirations would flourish. His formative years saw him honing his craft at the Orange County School of the Arts, graduating in 2013. The school, a renowned incubator for young talent, provided Smith with the platform to perform in various shows, a crucial step in the development of any aspiring actor. These early experiences, while perhaps not yet the stuff of red-carpet premieres, were vital in shaping his dedication and refining his natural abilities.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Justice Elio Smith |
| Date of Birth | August 9, 1995 |
| Place of Birth | Los Angeles, California, USA |
| Education | Orange County School of the Arts (Graduated 2013) |
| Occupation | Actor |
| Known For | Roles in Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom, Pokmon Detective Pikachu, All the Bright Places, Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves, and I Saw the TV Glow |
| Breakthrough Role | Ezekiel 'Books' Figuero in Netflix's The Get Down (2016-2017) |
| Filmography (Selected) |
|
| Television Appearances |
|
| Estimated Net Worth (as of 2025) | $1 Million |
| Awards and Nominations | To be updated with any awards won or nominations received. |
| Notable Collaborations | Worked with various directors and actors in prominent roles across different genres. |
| Link to Reference | IMDb - Justice Smith |
Smith's foray into the professional acting world began with appearances on Nickelodeon's comedy series The Thundermans, where he portrayed Angus in two episodes. This early television exposure, while not yet the defining moment of his career, offered valuable experience and broadened his audience reach. The true turning point, however, arrived with his casting in Netflix's musical drama series, The Get Down. From 2016 to 2017, Smith embodied the character of Ezekiel "Books" Figuero, a role that showcased not only his acting prowess but also his ability to navigate the complexities of a character grappling with ambition and the realities of life. The series, a vibrant exploration of the birth of hip-hop in the Bronx, provided Smith with the platform to truly shine and garnered significant critical acclaim, even though the show was ultimately cancelled.
The cancellation of The Get Down undoubtedly presented a challenge, but Smith, armed with the experience gained from the series, navigated the choppy waters of the industry with an unwavering resolve. His dedication to his craft bore fruit in the form of roles in high-profile film projects. He then secured a role in the 2018 science fiction blockbuster, Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom, where he portrayed Franklin Webb. The film, a visual spectacle filled with dinosaurs and action, provided Smith with an opportunity to demonstrate his ability to hold his own in a large-scale production, working alongside established stars and contributing to a globally recognized franchise.
The following year, 2019, saw Smith embrace the role of Tim Goodman in Pokmon Detective Pikachu, a live-action adaptation of the popular video game franchise. The film, a blend of mystery, adventure, and the beloved Pokmon characters, proved to be a box office success and cemented Smiths appeal to a wider audience, showcasing his ability to connect with younger viewers and families. His performance was well-received, further establishing him as a versatile talent capable of handling diverse roles.
In 2020, Smith took on the role of Theodore Finch in All the Bright Places, a film based on the young adult novel of the same name. The film, a story of love, loss, and mental health, allowed Smith to delve into a more introspective and emotionally complex character. This performance demonstrated Smith's range and his capacity to portray vulnerability, resonating with audiences and critics alike. His willingness to tackle challenging subjects further solidified his reputation as an actor who seeks to make a meaningful impact with his work. The film, though dealing with difficult subject matter, was praised for its sensitive portrayal of mental health issues, and Smith's performance was a key element in its success.
His career trajectory continued its upward climb with a role in Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves in 2023. The film, a fantasy adventure based on the iconic role-playing game, allowed Smith to showcase his ability to embrace a different genre, displaying both comedic timing and the capacity to inhabit the imaginative world of the film. This further proved his adaptability as an actor, seamlessly moving between genres and delivering compelling performances.
In 2024, Smith appeared in I Saw the TV Glow, a film that provided another opportunity to stretch his acting muscles, demonstrating his ability to portray characters within a more independent, art-house setting. This again illustrated his commitment to diverse roles and his artistic growth. The consistent flow of diverse projects demonstrates his desire to continually challenge himself and explore various aspects of the acting profession.
Smiths work doesn't simply exist within the confines of his on-screen performances. In September 2019, he was cast alongside Martha Plimpton, Chloe East, and others in an undisclosed project, highlighting his ability to secure a place in ensemble casts with a varied skill set. The names involved in the casting suggest a project with potential for critical acclaim, showcasing his ability to work with other talented artists and contributing to the artistic integrity of the work.
As of 2025, Justice Smith's estimated net worth stands at $1 million. This figure reflects not only his success in the entertainment industry but also the increasing value placed on his talent. The value of his work is seen in the roles he chooses, the projects he's associated with, and the respect he garners within the industry. However, more than the financial success, it's the body of work he's built and the consistent pursuit of artistic excellence that truly defines his career. Smith has demonstrated an ability to choose diverse roles, collaborate with talented individuals, and deliver performances that resonate with audiences, and as such, he will likely continue to be a prominent figure in the industry for years to come.
Justice Elio Smith's career is a testament to the power of talent, dedication, and the ability to adapt and evolve. From the stages of Orange County to the bright lights of Hollywood, Smith has carved a unique path for himself, demonstrating a clear commitment to the craft and a willingness to explore a wide range of roles. His trajectory promises an exciting future, with further opportunities for him to showcase his range and solidify his place among the most compelling actors of his generation.
