Our interview with talented actor Jailen Bates who is best known for his role on Nickelodeon’s WITs Academy where he played Ben. He has also been on hit shows like OMG! for DreamworksTV, ABC’s Dr. Ken, Disney XD’s Walk the Prank among others.
Best advice ever given?
Someone told me there is a lot of rejection in this business, but you have to stay com-mitted.
Tell us about the Nickelodeon’s series “WITs Academy,” and your role as Ben?
Wits Academy is about wizards and witches in training. Ben is a wizard who is very un-sure of himself, but when push comes to shove he gets the job done.
What has been your most memorable experience from the set so far?
MY most memorable experience was when the cast first came together and learned each others names and team building things, we had a lot of fun. The show actually filmed In Miami, so we hung out pretty much every day at the hotel pool and arcade. We were always hanging out doing something.
What is your next goal as an actor?
I would love to be in a movie!
What other project you have been part of?
I have been apart of Dreamworks TV sketch comedy series OMG! and a recurring char-acter on CBS’s Superior Donuts, and the announcer on NBC’s Gwen Stefani’s Christmas Special. I have also been on Disney’s Walk The Prank and ABC’s Dr. Ken.
Which actors/actress would you like to collaborate with in the future?
I would love to collaborate with Adam Sandler. He is my favorite actor. I have seen all of his movies.
3 things you can’t leave your house without?
I cant leave my house without my phone, my hat and my headphones.
If you could meet someone living or dead, who would it be and why?
It would me Michael Jackson. He is my favorite entertainer. I love his music and dance moves. He was fantastic!
Your favorite song? Why?
My favorite song is This is Me from the Greatest Showman.I feel it is so uplifting be-cause its basically saying this is me and I don’t care what you think.
What music do you like?
I love R&B and Pop music.
How’s a normal day in your life?
A normal day is waking up getting dressed going to school, maybe and audition or two. May days are very long. My school is an hour and half away sometimes.
Do you support any charity?
Yes I do. I volunteer every year at the LA Mission and the Salvation Army. I also support the Better Education For Our Youth Charity.
What do you like to watch on tv?
Right now I am watching the Fosters. It is my favorite show.
Any news you want to share with us?
I’m currently working on my YouTube channel DJ MIXTIPS along with Andrew Ortega. We dive into the latest things and topics trending around the world. I am also working on a new pilot for a show called Real Kids of Hollywood.
What do you think of Social Media?
I think social media is an excellent platform to share your thoughts and to use your voice to make a difference.
Where we can follow you?
Facebook: @jailenjabates
Instagram: @jailenbates
Twitter: @jailenbates
Quote: “Im not the kind of person who tries to be cool or trendy, I’m definitely an indi-vidual”. Leonardo DiCaprio.
Song: This Is Me (The Greatest Showman)
Movie: The Greatest Showman
Travel Destination: Hawaii
Food: Pasta
Sport Team: Golden State Warriors
Drink: Coke
Photo Credit: Joanna Garel Photography
