Brian J. Smith

Brian J. Smith (also credited as Brian J Smith, Brian Jacob Smith, and Brian Smith) is an American screen actor born on October 12, 1981, in Dallas, Texas. He first drew wide attention through independent film work, building a reputation for grounded, emotionally direct performances across drama and genre projects.

Raised in Texas, Smith trained in acting through the Quad C Theatre program at Collin County Community College in Plano before completing Juilliard’s four-year Drama Division program in New York City. That classical foundation helped him move fluidly between intimate character pieces and larger-scale productions.

One of his early standout roles came in the indie film Hate Crime, where he played Trey McCoy in a story confronting intolerance. He continued to develop his film résumé with titles such as The War Boys (as George) and Red Hook (as Chappy), and later appeared in projects including 22 Chaser (as Ben) and The Passing Season (as Sam).

On television, Smith is widely recognized for portraying Will Gorski in the Sense8 universe, including Sense8: Creating the World. His work also extends into sci-fi action with Red Faction: Origins (as Jake), reflecting a career defined by range, craft, and smart role choices.