Skai Jackson

Skai Jackson is an American actress, author, and entertainer known for her work in television, film, and publishing. Jackson began her career as a child model, appearing in national commercials for brands such as Band-Aid, Coca-Cola, Pepsi, and Old Navy. Her first major acting role was in the independent film "Liberty Kid," followed by a range of credits across film and television.

Jackson gained recognition on Disney Channel, starring in the series "Jessie" and reprising her role as Zuri Ross in the spin-off series "Bunk'd." This role earned Jackson an NAACP Award nomination for outstanding performance by a youth. She has been included in The Hollywood Reporter Top 30 Stars Under 18 list, Variety Young Hollywood Impact Report, TIME Most Influential Teens of the Year list, and EBONY Power 100 honorees.

In addition to her Disney Channel roles, Jackson's television credits include "The Watsons Go to Birmingham," HBO's "Boardwalk Empire," USA's "Royal Pains," and FX's "Louie." She has voiced characters in the Marvel Rising franchise and "DreamWorks Dragons: Rescue Riders," and appeared in the film "Sheroes." Jackson also completed work on "The Man in the White Van," a period thriller based on a true story set in Florida. She guest starred in the Starz series BMF as Ashleigh.

Marvel artist Mike Deodato, co-creator of Ironheart/Riri Williams, has cited Jackson as inspiration for the Marvel comic book character. As an author, Jackson wrote the book "Reach for the Skai: How to Inspire, Empower, and Clapback," published by Random House, which discusses her experiences in the entertainment industry, self-acceptance, and empowerment. She was a semi-finalist on season 29 of "Dancing with the Stars." Jackson is an advocate for anti-bullying and uses her platform to address social issues relevant to younger audiences.