Bio

Born in Houston, Texas, JR Villarreal has been working and living in Hollywood since the tender age of 10. A compelling and energetic actor, JR's talent and depth have earned him adulation from both industry professionals and fans alike. As a youngster, JR captivated audiences with his performance in the hit film Akeelah and the Bee starring alongside KeKe Palmer and Angela Bassett. Fresh off the success of Akeela, JR played the role of "Kit" in Millennium Film's action-drama, Bobby Z with Paul Walker and Lawrence Fishburne. Recently, his performance as the lead in the indie drama, Magic City Memoirs, garnered him a Best Actor award at the 2011 Ibiza International Film Festival. The film which is executive produced by Academy Award nominated actor, Andy Garcia, also won awards at the Miami International Film Festival and New York International Latino Film Festival. His latest feature is Paramount's found-footage parody, Ghost Team One. A horror comedy about two roommates deathly afraid of ghosts that both fall in love with a girl who believes their home is haunted. Ghost Team One is set to hit theaters October 11, 2013. JR's television roles include guest appearances on FX's new hit series The Bridge starring Demian Bichir, Fox's House M.D., Lifetime's Strong Medicine and CBS's Ghost Whisperer. Other television credits include guest lead roles in three of the highest rated shows on television - Cold Case, Without A Trace and CSI: Miami. A true thespian and student of the craft, JR's presence will continue to illuminate silver and small screens for years to come.