Mark Christopher Lawrence is one of Hollywood’s most sought-after character actors. In addition to displaying a variety of theatrical skills, this diverse actor also excels as a producer, vocalist, comedian, entrepreneur and literary scholar.
Mark was raised in an L.A. neighborhood submerged in incessant crime and corruption. In spite of this, he evaded the violent street life and discovered other ways to entertain himself. With an innate skill for imitating neighborhood companions, coupled with his astonishing ability to adopt mannerisms and develop characters, Mark’s talents led one of his teachers to enroll him in his high school’s debate team. His success resulted in a full scholarship to attend USC while he sharpened his craft working professionally with the critically acclaimed Los Angeles Theater Center. Eventually, Mark acquired his first job in television, a role on Hill Street Blues. Mark continued his award-winning television performances in Reba, Seinfeld, Touched by an Angel, Malcolm in the Middle and others, until he was offered his first film role in Terminator II: Judgment Day. Thereafter, this constant entertainer continued to depict a variety of comedic and dramatic characters in feature films: The Pursuit of Happyness, Crimson Tide, K-Pax, and Planet of the Apes, among others.
As an entrepreneur, Mark co-formed the Black Theater Artist’s Workshop in Los Angeles. Mark also launched his own company, Prayer Dudz, which produced a series of gospel comedy DVDs, a casual and dressy line of men’s apparel and an online travel agency.
Mark’s memorable charm and genuine love for people permeates his performances and relationships. Mark formerly served as San Diego’s local branch President of the American Federation of Radio and Television Artists as well as Vice-President of San Diego’s local branch of the Screen Actor’s Guild. Mark also supports and contributes to various charities, primarily those that assist children, diabetics and breast cancer patients. Mark heads his own foundation, The PDZ Foundation for the Arts and Education, with prominent board members like baseball great Tony Gwynn.
