J.R. Villarreal
Biography
J.R. Villarreal is an actor born in Houston, Texas, who has been working and living in Hollywood since the age of 10. As a youngster, he appeared in the film Akeelah and the Bee alongside KeKe Palmer and Angela Bassett. Following that success, he played the role of Kit in the Millennium Films action-drama Bobby Z, which starred Paul Walker and Lawrence Fishburne. More recently, Villarreal played the lead role in the independent drama Magic City Memoirs. His performance in that film earned him a Best Actor award at the 2011 Ibiza International Film Festival. He is known as a compelling and energetic actor whose talent and depth have earned him recognition from industry professionals and fans.
Career overview
Born in Houston, Texas, J.R. Villarreal has lived and worked in Hollywood since the age of ten. As a youngster, Villarreal captivated audiences with his performance in the hit film Akeelah and the Bee, where he starred alongside KeKe Palmer and Angela Bassett.
Following the success of that project, Villarreal played the role of Kit in Millennium Films' action-drama Bobby Z, appearing alongside Paul Walker and Laurence Fishburne.
More recently, Villarreal took on the lead role in the indie drama Magic City Memoirs. His performance in the film earned him a Best Actor award at the 2011 Ibiza International Film Festival.
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Frequent co-stars
Career timeline
Full Filmography
18 titles- Dutton Ranch (2026) as Azul
- Landman (2024) as Manuel
- Jenni (2024) as Juan 'Cinco' Lopez
- Freeridge (2023) as Tio Tonio
- Ultra Violet & Black Scorpion (2022) as Cruz de la Vega / Black Scorpion
- United We Fall (2020) as Felix Rodriguez
- Medal of Honor (2018) as Gallegos
- High and Mighty (2017) as Hugo
- Whiteblood (2017) as Rico
- Spare Parts (2015) as Hector
- Ghost Team One (2013) as Brad
- The Death and Life of Bobby Z (2007) as Kit
- Akeelah and the Bee (2006) as Javier
- Ghost Whisperer (2005) as Joseph Borgia
- House (2004) as Manny
- CSI: Miami (2002) as Ben Tavez
- Without a Trace (2002) as Nelson Rodriguez
- Strong Medicine (2000) as Marcos Garcia
Frequently Asked Questions
What movies or TV shows is J.R. Villarreal best known for?
J.R. Villarreal is widely recognized for notable roles and projects including Dutton Ranch (2026), Landman (2024), Don't Turn the Other Cheek (1971), The Death and Life of Bobby Z (2007).
When and where was J.R. Villarreal born?
J.R. Villarreal was born on September 28, 1992 in Houston, Texas, USA.
How many credits does J.R. Villarreal have?
J.R. Villarreal has accumulated over 18 film and television credits across a career spanning from 2000 to 2026.
What is J.R. Villarreal's background in cinema and television?
J.R. Villarreal is an actor born in Houston, Texas, who has been working and living in Hollywood since the age of 10. As a youngster, he appeared in the film Akeelah and the Bee alongside KeKe Palmer and Angela Bassett. Following that success, he played the role of Kit in the Millennium Films action-drama Bobby Z, whic...