Jou Jou Papailler

Jou Jou Papailler is an actor, director, writer, producer, and keynote speaker with a career spanning more than three decades in television, film, theater, and social activism. Papailler was discovered during a Drug Free America commercial and later moved to New York, where he became a series regular on "Sesame Street" as Jamal, the park ranger, appearing in more than 30 episodes. While studying with acting coach Wynn Handman at American Place Theatre, Papailler earned recurring roles on shows such as "The Guiding Light," "As the World Turns," and Bill Maher's "Politically Incorrect." Under Handman's guidance, he co-wrote, performed songs, and starred in the Off-Broadway production "Spoonbread and Strawberry Wine."

Papailler's screen career expanded to film work in both New York and Los Angeles. In Los Angeles, he starred in feature films including "The Socratic Method" and "Welcome to Hollywood." His short film "By Means of Natural Selection," which he wrote, produced, and starred in, won three awards at the 168 Film Festival in Bel Air, California. "Smoke Screen," which he directed and associate produced, screened at Universal Studios and was sold for distribution. He also served as a supporting lead opposite Taye Diggs in the drama "The River Runs Red," and starred in feature film comedies "Tan Lines" and "The Split."

Papailler wrote, produced, directed, and starred in the award-winning Amazon Prime TV pilot "By Design." The women's empowerment drama features a diverse cast addressing issues of domestic abuse, sexism, and race relations, drawing from real stories to depict hidden struggles. "By Design" premiered on the UKW Media channel on Roku, where it remained number one for six consecutive weeks. In collaboration with mentor and consultant Danny Glover, Papailler is developing a film about Isaac Murphy, the most successful jockey in history.

In addition to his on-screen work, Papailler has contributed as an educator and civic leader. He co-created and ran the Film Actor's Academy with DK Casting in Los Angeles and established the first professional-level high school TV/Film Production department in Kentucky. As a commissioner for the Kentucky Film Commission, Papailler and his colleagues secured a 35 percent tax credit through state legislation. With extensive experience in acting, coaching, directing, and training, Papailler applies a unique approach to help individuals overcome barriers to authentic connection.

As a keynote speaker, Papailler addresses topics including acting, anti-racism, creativity, culture, diversity, equity and inclusion, empowerment, personal growth, and social activism. He has spoken for leadership programs in Harlem, the Bronx, and Compton, where he co-created a nonprofit for abstinence education. Papailler has also spoken at the Muhammad Ali Center in Louisville and at several churches about his racial unity program, "Black, White, and Blue." Drawing on his varied experiences and commitment to social change, Papailler engages audiences across a range of ages and backgrounds.