Once upon a time, there was a young man named J Lee...

Short Film.

2010-10-22T12:18:00.001-07:00

Hey, it's all good. But...

2010-08-16T20:52:00.000-07:00

Thank you, Dr. Laura! This chick, laura schlessinger, has sparked a new racial debate concerning the N Word, and ultimately, racism in a Post-President Obama Era. An African-American woman called into her show seeking advice about her White husband's racially insensitive family. Somehow, laura thought that meant it was the opportunity to talk about how black comics use the N word on HBO. And then the best part was, laura told the caller before hanging up on her "If you're that hypersensitive about color and don't have a sense of humor, don't marry outside of your race,". I guess, somehow, black comics and HBO have officially become the representatives of all black people in the world. Not sure I see the connection, but doesn't matter. What I have to say to little miss laura is "it's all good". As a child of God and an American woman, you have every right to say whatever the hell you want to say. Good on you. Don't apologize for it. I actually wouldn't have minded if you had used it 100 more times. Get it off your chest. NOW...with that being said, let me say this. I feel that just like you feel like you have the right to do/say whatever you want to say. We have the right to find you while you're walking to your car, and bash your face in. Consequences and Repercussions. Cause and Effect. You call me a Nigga, I punch you in the mouth. You call me a Nigga twice, I hit you in the temple with a brick. Simple math to me. Black folks, we have begun to rely on other people to fight our battles for us. News reports and Al Sharptons and everybody else doing it in the limelight. But we, as black people, should take matters into our own hands.

You can fool whoever you want to with this whole "there's a black president in office so clearly racism doesn't exist" shit all you want. But you ain't fooling me. Racism is charged and worse than I've ever seen it in my lifetime. And I've been called quite my share of Niggas growing up in St. Louis, MO. But my friends and I didn't call our moms. Or Jesse Jackson. Nope. We walked around with a pocket full of rocks and if you decided to drive by and get a nice loud "nigga" off of your chest, your back window was coming out. After awhile, they'd get tired of replacing a rear windshield and putting little baby Jon Doe's head in danger while he's sitting in his child's seat in the back. Cause and Effect.

These tea baggers are out there with their guns and poster boards spreading fear and talking about how they have the right to bare arms. 1st of all, you'd NEVER see a large group of ANYBODY with guns protesting outside of the white house with ANY OTHER PRESIDENT. Talking about how it's their right to bare arms. It just wouldn't happen. But whatever, all good. Let's move past that. Keep your guns and do your thing. But I say, people of color, we join the tea baggers. Go out there with weapons, locked and loaded with signs that say "We Got Gunz 2". Write it that way to make sure they can read it. They rally? We rally. They protest. We march right beside 'em, ready to protect our rights (and our President) by whatever means necessary. You tea baggers act crazy. But let me introduce you to my Uncles Turtle, Dale and Donnie standing amongst you with some automatic weapons aimed at your head. You ain't seen that type of crazy yet. At the very least, it'll make you want to rethink all of that nonsense fox news has been shoving down your throat. They forgot to tell you that "We Got Gunz 2". Consequences and Repercussions.

See, I'm good on all of these fake apologies. You don't have to apologize to me. Because you're not sorry. It's actually more disrespectful and I'd rather you just stick by what you said. Be a woman/man about it. I'd rather see laura with her two front teeth knocked out and a swollen eye and taking the elevator to work because she's in a wheelchair. I could guarantee you she wouldn't say the N word ever again. Matter of fact, she might just delete the letter N from her vocabulary all together.

So here's my theory on the N word. People have been debating and trying to explain why it should or shouldn't be said. I'll make it simple. You say it, you deal with the consequences. And I'm not talking about your job. I'm talking about your livelihood. No more talking. They don't listen to reasonable thinkers and speakers. Sometimes you have to deal with a child like a child. Get on their level. With force and rallies and protests. Make noise. Slap somebody. Break something. Stop trying to reason with unreasonable people. Stand your ground and grow a backbone and the next person that says the N word around you and you don't like it, fuck it. Hit 'em with a bat. My father told me at a young age that a nigger didn't have anything to do with the color of your skin. A nigger simply meant that someone was ignorant. So laura, let me be the first person to call you a nigger. And definitely with the 'er'. Not the 'a'. Because you've earned it.

"A wise man never argues with a fool. Onlookers may not be able to tell the difference." -Mark Twain

"Now you wanna walk around talking about guns, like I ain't got none, what you think I sold 'em all?" -Dr. Dre

I'M A COWBOY

2010-04-30T08:34:00.001-07:00

My first real trip to the rodeo didn't go quite like I planned. I remember getting suited up and mounting that bronco and felt on top of the world. Then the next thing I know, the gate opened and everything changed. I got bucked to the ground so hard that every bone in my body shook. The audience laughed at me. The announcers scathed me. My other friends, who had driven miles and miles to see me, could only give me the obligatory smile and nod and then talked about me behind my back. "I knew he wouldn't be able to do it". "Too ambitious" they would muster under their breath as they walked away. And there I was, hours after the rodeo, still sitting in the same patch of dirt wondering what the hell happened. It all happened so quickly, that sitting there banged and bruised physically and mentally, was the last place I had imagined myself. I wasn't prepared for THAT. I had planned on setting a record time on that bronco. Something that had never been done before.

I haven't posted since September 2009. Because since then, I had been sitting on that patch of dirt. Now let's bring it to reality for a moment. If you know me and have been keeping up with me, you know that I am a slasher. Actor/writer/musician/director/producer/overallentertainerandartist. And sometimes that can be a tricky thing. What I'm about to say, I mean with every inch of my body: There is absolutely nothing in this world that I cannot do. Nothing. And from that strong belief in myself is born an undying ambitiousness that allows me to see no barriers or restrictions. I can or I can. Even after setbacks (some call them failures) Now, I actually want you to go back and read my previous post and then come back and read this one. It'll give you a clearer picture of where I am no and where I was.

Back? Ok see...that guy who posted that blog, he had just got on the bronco. The gate hadn't been opened yet. Flash forward to today. The film fell through disasteriously. One of my closest friends in life left me holding the bag on an almost 4M dollar film and ultimately the financial responsibility. I lost pretty much every dollar I had saved. To avoid eviction, I sold all of my stuff and moved in with my cousin. Used almost all of my favors that I had gathered in this industry and bet it all on this project. But two weeks before shooting, my friend/financier decided not to put the rest of the money in and the walls came crashing down. Hard. And there I was, quickly being thrust from a great high to a devastating low.

People looked at me with that smug "I told you so" face. (Which I later realized was fear. Because even though I fell, they were nervous that I was about to do something so simple but so complex. And that's - what I said I would do) So now, I had/have 2 choices. Either pack it up and never ride a rodeo again. Or get up and get back on that bucking bronco. And I'm up. Stronger and better than ever. And I still stand by everything that I said.

So for YOU...don't let small setbacks set YOU back. You keep going. Learn from it. Grow from it. And ultimately, you will end up in a better place than when you started. (You see, while I was in that dirt, I wrote another script. 'Cause I had some things on my chest....and now, it's one of my best pieces to date. Would that have happened had I not been bucked down? I don't know...)

But anyway- I'm back. And I'm not going anywhere. I'm like a small crack in your windshield. At first, it seems non significant. Not a big deal. But eventually, that crack is going to spread if you keep putting pressure on it. And eventually, it's either time to replace the window completely, or it's going to break completely. I'm the crack. The industry is the windshield. Let me in or I'mma bring this whole muthaf***a down!

J Lee

Jump Right in!

2009-09-30T05:21:00.000-07:00

Carol Lee is my mom and she is awesome. She is empowering. She is the eldest of 7, stubborn, strong willed and till this day, I believe she can do anything in the world. Her light and her aura is so grand, it took me 23 years to learn that she was only 5'2.

She has instilled in me something invaluable. And that is a fearlessness and an ability to jump right into a deep end and not drown. Whether you know how to swim or not. You will float to the top. I'm just a kid from St. Louis who was never taught that things were impossible. Impossible to me just means it's never been done before. The word can't had no power or place in the Lee residence. It just didn't make sense like Gz%e\ye doesn't make sense. It doesn't register. My brain can't digest it. I'm a Can'titarian.

Most people don't start something because they're afraid that they will fail, therefore, failing a mission they haven't even tried. Talk talk talk talk and when the door of opportunity arises, they're still talking about what they're going to do. And that door closes and they're still talking waiting on the next door. But sometimes when that door opens you just gotta go through. Shoes untied, belt unbuckled and a wrinkled shirt. What the person outside 'talking' doesn't realize is that even if while in this door of opportunity, things don't go as smoothly as planned. Or it turns out it's much harder than you thought and you start to second guess whether or not you should have come through when you did. There is always another door or a hallway or a vent that opens along the way. But you can't see that from the stoops outside talking to yourself. You gotta get in there. And behind another door is someone else in a hallway trying to figure out how to get to another elevator shaft. They see you, and you plan together. Then you run into more people figuring shit you and you're right there with them. Navigating this crazy Land of Can.

The door is open now and you are where you are now for a reason. If you believe you are ready enough you are ready enough. If you believe you can you can.

Think about it like this. God wouldn't even let you SEE that door if you weren't ready to go through. It's as simple as that. The door has probably been there for awhile now, you just didn't see it yet. You didn't have the right people in your life yet. You didn't have the right life experiences or hardships yet. You hadn't gone through the proper training camp yet. But now that you see it, you've got to trust that you see it for a reason. And don't let your fears and other people's fears get in your way.

In closing - holla at your boy
JL
"You don't get a quote"

Boss.

2009-08-24T17:38:00.000-07:00

I'm a boss. Yeah, I said it and I'm proud of it. I think I always knew it, but sometimes I forget. And sometimes, the Man Upstairs reminds me just how boss you are.

Over the past 2 years, As an actor I've been up for a lot of really good projects. Came close to a lot of them and got disappointed when I didn't get them. Thought these were 'career changing' roles. But alas, just wasn't my time.

But every time I missed on a film, I went back home and worked on my own thing. Worked on my own scripts and projects and ideas. I tried my hardest not to let self-doubt and fear set in because they will knock on your door as soon as you let them know you're lonely. So every time I missed on a project, like clockwork, something else popped up. Produce a tv show here. Do a voice over there. Get inspiration for a script here. So here it is, a couple years after I didn't get cast in a film that I thought would have changed my career. And I'm now producing a script that I wrote during that time frame. And I wrote myself a part in it. So the person who decides if I get the role is none other than yours truly. And I think I'll give myself the role.

My boy J.R. said it perfectly. "Some people are meant to come into the game as workers. And some are meant to come in as bosses". What are you? Either one is fine? But which one are you? I came into the game hoping that a casting director would hire me. Now, I hired a casting director to cast my film. See how that works?

You may think you want something. But God has bigger and better plans for you that you haven't even thought about. Your dreams are nothing but goals with plans. Simple as that. And when the breakdown for my film came out today it gave me a friendly reminder. I'm a boss.

J Lee
-whether you think you can or cannot. You are right

Doing it!

2009-06-30T18:36:00.000-07:00

WHAT IT DO?!

Mane! Ya boy J Lee has been busy. But busy is good in LA. For the past month or so, I've been working as a producer for a new TV show called "Pay It Off" which will air later this year.

While I'm doing that, I'm finishing the re-write for the big epic/fantasy script that writing partner and I have telling the story of one of the dopest Greek monsters in history.

While I'm doing that, I'm prepping for another movie that my writing partner and I wrote. And we're getting ready to shoot it later this year. And if you know me...you'll love this story of how it came to be.

We wrote the script about 2 years ago. Once our BIG BUDGET script got picked up by a studio, it sat on the shelf as we had to do re-write after re-write for the big boy. Meanwhile, this little comedy was sitting back waiting on his turn. One day, we decided to take it out, brush the dust off and take another look at the comedy. And while we were doing that, I said to myself "this b***h is funny. I forgot we wrote that". And suddenly something hit me. And I said 'I'm going to shoot this'. When I wake up in the morning, I try to take a moment to just ...be. Before I get on my phone and start emailing and all the things that consume my day. I go out by my pool. Breathe and pray. And that's when I'm the most clear. And in that moment, it made sense. And I realized that I had everything I needed to make this movie happen.

Made a few calls. Connected a few dots. And here I am in preproduction for my film. Director, casting director, producers, script attached. The journey will be long, but I'm on the trail and I'm prepared for the haul.

Anyway..what else? That's it. Shooting a movie. Producing a TV show. Re-writing a script. Living life. And I'm happy.

So..moral of the story is what? I don't know. But I do know that all the lumps you take along the path only prepare you for when you're ready to do what it is you do. Over the past 2-3 years, my oven has heated up, placed me inside, burned me, had me on hold..and just when I thought I heard the 'ding' and was done in that oven and ready to get out...it kept me in there just a little longer. But that only made me stronger once I came out. Ya dig? So enjoy the struggle, folks. Because that's what keeps you going. Just keep some sunscreen handy 'cause undoubtedly you will be tested in the heat. Just know. You won't burn. You can't burn. You're fire proof.

But if YOU don't believe that...I won't either ;-)

Holla
J Lee

Thong Song!

2009-05-13T19:05:00.000-07:00

This post is just in time for the summer.

You guys remember the "Thong Song" by Sisqo? I came across it on youtube today and was ROLLING. If you remember the video, you remember it had a few nice video 'actors' in bikins, dancing on the beach. The song was eh, whatever...but the video made you forget about the song. But peep the video and then we'll discuss why Sisqo is an idiot. Whether you like the video or not, you at least have to get to the 1:50 mark.

Dude..all these bad chicks laying on the beach half butt nekkid, shining and probably tipsy from Malibu and pineapple and this dude is doing back flips on the beach. What the hell is Sisqo thinking? When was the last time you hopped in your drop top benz, sped to the beach, saw some bad chicks, and then decided to go and do a back hand spring for no reason? Who does that?! I don't care if my hair is silver and I got my bird chest out and I'm wearing some hammer pants, if I'm on some chicks, I'm good to go. But if I'm doing gymnastic flips and kicking up sand on chicks trying to get it in...please feel free to slap me.

Holla!!!
J Lee
-sorry it's been so long since my last note, folks. But I'm baaaaack!

Letting go...

2009-02-18T19:54:00.000-08:00

Let it go. Seems like a simple concept but sometimes it's easier said than done. My mother used to always tell me that sometimes you have to let go of the bad stuff you've got in your hand to let a blessing inside.

I remember when I made my decision to leave Family Guy like it was yesterday. I had a great job. Worked with great people on one of the most successful shows on television. But I knew I had to make a move. And on paper, I did it at the worst time. It was the beginning of the year, I didn't have a lot of money, and no gig lined up. But in the back of my mind, I knew I had to let go of one thing to get another. And it took my willingness to plunge off of the bridge with no parachute and only talent, hope, and God on my side for me to realize...that I cannot fail. I will not hit the bottom. It just won't happen. And as soon as I left, all of sudden 'luck' kicked in. And if you read my blogs, you know I don't believe in luck. Luck is nothing more than opportunity meeting preparation. So moral of that story is stay ready so you never have to get ready. And even though it might feel like you can't take that leap of faith. Just know that you can.

Sometimes you have things in your life that you know you shouldn't have there, but just can't seem to shake it. It's like a drug. At the time, it feels great. But when you step back and look at your situation, you realize that this 'thing' is no good for you. But it's too late. You're stuck on it. You try to 'make it work'. And this can be a person, a relationship, a job...it can be anything. And the only advice I can give is that you're going to have to be in that 'uncomfortable' area for a lil bit. That 'lonely' place. That ..'damn, I should just call 'him/her' place. That 'damn, I'mma quit this drug tomorrow. Just one more hit'. That "at the end of the week, I'm quitting this dreadful job.". But you can't give in. You have to go through with it and when it feels like s***, you have to stay there. And it's going to suck. And it's going to hurt. And it's going to feel bad. But at the end of it all, you're going to end up in a much better place than where you started. But are you willing to go through the fire to come out golden?

It's still early in 2009. If you've got some baggage you need to throw out, throw it out now. Because one thing you don't get back is time. And you don't want to lose valuable time on something that you know is bad for you. Let it go. Trust me. Something better is waiting on you.

"Why everything that's supposed to be bad make me feel so good?
Everything they told me not to, is exactly what I would.
Man I tried to stop man, I tried the best I could but...
You make me smile.
What's your addiction? Is it money? Is it girls? Is it weed?
I've been afflicted. By not one. Not two, but all three.
She's got the same thing about me, but more about us
So she's coming over. So I guess that means I'm a drug"

~Kanye West - Addiction

On a positive note

2009-02-06T18:47:00.000-08:00

I just read the last few of my blogs. I said 'whew...that boy J Lee is angry' lol. Nah, just had some things on my mind, folks. So getting back on the positive side of positivity, I decided to come back and do a little lighter blog. Something happy. Smile for the camera.

I was cast in a new film and will be heading to northern California next month to shoot. Should be a good time. It's a scary movie and if you know me, I don't even watch scary movies. But it'll be cool to be a part of one that's well done. Plus, my boy Gary lives up there so on my off days, I'll go up and hoop out the cats at his 24 hour fitness. J Lee AKA 'dribble drive', AKA 'no, you guard him', AKA 'where do you play ball?'. And on Monday, I'll be going back in for the new Cleveland show (spin off of Family Guy) to record the voice for my character, Rod.

What else, what else. Finished about 3 other scripts and they're making the rounds in Hollywood. I feel like 2009 is starting to shape out pretty cool. A lot of the stuff I was working on last year is finally starting to sprout. AND, I have one project in particular that...if it goes through, your boy J Lee will be quite a happy camper. I'm talking, first round's on me. No matter what city you're in. I'll fly there, and first round is on me.

Ok. That's it. I'm out.
JL

File this under...

2009-02-06T12:34:00.000-08:00

Things that shouldn't surprise you.

When you see this video, you'll probably have the same reaction I did. And that's, "what the f***, how is this even possible?" A cop stops a young lady for riding her bike on the sidewalk and then eventually punches her in the face 4 times while she's in handcuffs. 1st of all, when does riding a bike on the sidewalk generate more than a citation? He immediately goes to spray her with pepper spray. Misses. Throws her off the bike. 2 other officers come in to help, and while she can't defend herself, beats her in the face.

And the sad thing is that this type of thing happens ALL OF THE TIME. A friend of mine and I were talking about another absurd incident that happened awhile ago that had me perplexed and outraged. You know what he told me? "There's nothing, absolutely nothing, a white person could do that would surprise me". And I thought about that. And the more I thought about that statement, the more I realized just how deep that was. Think about it...from lynchings, to white officers shooting unarmed black men, to being called the n word on a daily bases, isn't even shocking. It's expected. It happens so often that the shock value of it all has completely left the building. And it's not hidden anymore. Back in the day, you had no proof that somebody called you a n****. You had no proof that this type of brutality happens. Not in these days, though. You spend 10 minutes on the web, you'll find enough hatred to last you all of 2009. And if it's not in the videos, you can be sure it'll be in the comments section. Think I'm making it up? A cop shoots an unarmed man lying face down in his own driveway? Check. Cop tasers and beats black teenager in the face? You got it. Cop shoots, better yet, EXECUTES an unarmed and handcuffed young man at point blank. In front of dozens of witnesses with video phones. Pleads NOT GUILT. Yup. It all goes down in these here United States of America.

Don't be shocked. Happens all the time.

JL
"Who the f*** you think you f*****' with? I'm the police! I run s*** here. You just live here!"
Denzel Washington as Alonzo in Training Day

Do you love America? Really?

2009-01-20T09:53:00.000-08:00

Today is Jan 20th, 2009 and we just inaugurated the 44th President of The United States of America. Barrack Hussein Obama. It is a proud moment in not just our lives, but lives spread across the entire world. Truly it is. And the fact that this great man was sworn in as the 1st Black man to be the Head Of State, a day after Martin Luther King's holiday, is just an added bonus.

But I got some things on my chest that I need to get off. To all of those people who didn't vote for President Obama. For Fox News, who were openly biased and racist during the entire election coverage who who immediately after his inauguration tried to let us know the 'problems' in President Obama's speech, for the teachers and institutions who punish people for wearing Barack Obama T-Shirts to school And kicking kids off of school buses for saying President Obama's name this next part is for you.

When does your difference in opinion over the man who is now our leader, become disrespectful? And furthermore, unpatriotic? You pride yourselves so much on being American and how much you love America, but you ride the line of utter insolence, so much so, that you actually don't even deserve to call yourself an American. So many Americans stood by our country and our President(s) during some of the worst things in history. Wars, economic hardships, bailouts, hate crimes, civil rights, slavery and the list goes on and on. You name it, we stood by and dealt with it. But we still stood with the tag and pride of calling ourselves American. Now, we have a very qualified and important man ready to lead our nation through the bulls***t the last one dealt us, and you STILL won't give the man the respect he's due. How can YOU call yourself American. To those people, you're even more of a hypocrite than that word will allow. To those who were all about the war and keeping America safe from those terrorists; you wanted us to shut up and ride or die with the President. It was Un-American if you didn't. And now, because you're afraid of change and you're afraid of what American REALLY is (a nation of nations), you want to pout like a little bitch and continue to turn your back. Well guess what. You're a part of the problem. Not the solution, my friend. Mind you, I don't mind if you voted against the man or who you voted for. And you might have problems with him. He's not perfect by any means. But at some point you need to get on the bus or get the f*** out of the way because we don't have time to go back and teach you that the ways of the old days are long gone and change is inevitable. And you know what, whether you like it or not, Preisdent Barack Obama is YOUR president too. So shut the f*** up, pay your taxes, and for God's sake, quit being a hypocrite and respect the man in charge. Period. That, or get the f*** out.

JL

"When Black will not be asked to get back.
When Brown can stick around.
When Yellow will be mellow.
When the Red Man can get ahead, man.
And when White will embrace what's right.
Let all those who do justice and love mercy say Amen. Say Amen. And Amen!"
'Reverend Lowery during President Barack Obama's Benedection

'NO!'

2009-01-13T13:45:00.000-08:00

IN 2009...people are going to have to start telling me 'NO'. And quite frankly, I don't think you can do that. Let me explain. See, in LA, mostly everybody is dependent on someone else. An actor is dependent on a casting director. A casting director is dependent on a producer. A producer is dependent on an executive producer. An executive producer is dependent on a studio. A studio is dependent on a director. A director is dependent on a good script. A good script is dependent on a scribe. A scribe is dependent on somebody else's opinion on what's good or not. The cycle goes on and on. It's a big clusterfuck. In the midst of all of this co-dependency, hands get tied. People feel like they can't go on until they get everything else, all of their co-conspirators...I mean co-dependents lined up. So if you're in the middle of said fuck of clusterfest, you're just looking for an answer. "Did I book the job?" "Are you going to buy my script?" etc etc. But the funny thing about Hollywood, is people are VERY hesitant to actually say the word 'NO'. Because nobody wants to be that somebody that passed on that thing that ends up being a huge thing. Be it a person, project, or concept. So if they don't have an answer for you yet, or if they're in the grey area, you'll most likely get the "I'll call you back" responses. The "I'm going to have my people look at it". The I'll get back to you". And maybe even a "not right now". But that definitely ain't a 'NO'.

So, I'm going to take control of the things I can take control of. And I'm going to make people say NO to me. If that means slapping you with a new script everyday until you read it Mr. Producer dude, then get ready for a red face. I'm going to be in people's faces so much, that by the end of the day they're either going to have to call security or say 'DAMN! J Lee just won't go away. Give him 100 Million'. I'm cool with either 'cause I been arrested before lol.

Mind you, this does not just apply to just me and my journey. No matter who you are or what you do, you go out there and you make people respect your hustle. And you hustle so hard that people can't do anything but give you the green light and watch you work. If you look at all the people you admire or look up to or aspire to be like, I guarantee they'll echo what I'm about to say. My belief in myself outweighs your doubt. Trust me.

"You aint' gotta like a n**** just respect my mind
And this is how I'm eatin' now, so respect my grind"
-Young Jeezy

Purity

2008-12-16T18:22:00.000-08:00

I was driving in LA the other day and passed a new movie poster. The light slowly turned yellow. And then red. And then I looked over at the move poster and had a small revelation. And it's funny how these things happen sometimes. Sometimes, God shows us ourselves in such a clear and pure way that we can't ignore it. And this happened to me at that light.

Looking at that poster, I re-realized my purpose as an artist. And that is to entertain. Period.
In LA, it is so easy to get lost in the hustle and shuffle. And trying to get to the top and make as much money as possible. But along that hustle route, sometimes you forget the reason you're doing it. I love movies. I loved movies before I decided to dedicate my life to the entertainment industry. And there are millions of people who have normal lives, and find their release in movies. And it is my duty to provide that. Not because of the money. Not because of the fame. But because that is my God given talent. And all of the other stuff will come. And come abundantly. I had to remind myself of that. I looked at that poster and just wanted to see that movie. I didn't care who I knew in that film. Or who produced it. Or who casted that and how I missed out on that audition. I just wanted to see it.

Another year is winding down. 2008 and 2009 is within sneezing distance. If you read my blogs, you know I don't do new year's resolutions. I do 'to do' lists. And at the top of my 2009 to do list will be this. Entertain. All things will fall under that umbrella. Believe that.

J Lee

Me and My President...

2008-11-14T19:44:00.000-08:00

Have something in common. And no...it's not the fact that we're both black. No...it's not the fact that we both have swag (ha).

It's the fact, that we can relate on a level that just can't be expressed by words. Just glancing at this picture brings such a huge smile to my face that I had to write this blog. Black men know...the barbershop is like a temple. A home away from home. And the fact that I can go up to the mutha f****n' president of the United States and ask if he uses Andi's T liners or the regular ones, and he knows what I'm talking about makes me wanna jump for joy.

True story. I was actually looking at Barack's line up on election night and joking with my friends about how sharp his lining was. And Black folks know what it's like to be 'misunderstood'. We know what it's like to be the 'only black person' in a corporate room full of White people. We know what it feels like to 'be on our best behavior' because sometimes they just don't get us. But HE gets it. He knows what it's like to sit in that chair and talk about the ins and outs of the hood. Talk about who just got a new car or who just went off to college or jail. 'Cause that's the kind of conversations that go on in the barbershops. F*** politics. F*** parties. You have no choice but to be yourself and be natural when you're sitting in that chair and that barber takes that brush and brushes off the hair. Then he swoops off that cape, hands you a mirror and says "what chu think?". And at some point, me, Barack and every other black man that's ever had a haircut has said 'Can you take a little more off the top'

Haha. If you don't feel me, you ain't gonna feel me. But if you feel me...you feel me.

"My President is black. My lambo's blue. And I'll be God d****d if my rims ain't too"
-Young Jeezy

Holla

Thanks for everything, OJ!

2008-10-05T14:09:00.000-07:00

OJ Simpson was just convicted for 12 different counts dating back to a kidnapping incident back in 2007. And in an extreme case of irony, he was sentenced exactly 13 years later to the day of his infamous 'murder trial', in which he was found non guilty.

Similar, but nowhere near as harsh, to his last trial...everybody has an opinion on whether or not OJ should have been found guilty. Stating that this is nothing but payback for what happened 13 years ago in the 'Trial Of The Century'. Saying that his 'luck' ran out. Here is what I think:

OJ Simpson served his purpose. Whether he knew he was doing it or not, he did. Whether he was guilty or not back in 1995, he proved that sometimes, just SOMETIMES, a black man can get a break in a flawed judicial system. I remember being a freshman in high school, an all white boys high school at that, in the lunch room when they announced the verdict. The entire school stopped everything they were doing because at that moment, that trial was so much bigger than OJ Simpson. It was clearly about Race at that point. White people VS. Black People round # 1 million and counting. But this time, it went 'our' way. A black man got off the hook. And I stood up and remember distinctly that all eyes were on me. Like I was OJ Simpson myself. People were genuinely pissed off. And I'm talking 14 -18 year olds. Teenagers who really didn't even understand why they were mad in the first place. But that trial exposed just how racist and angry our country was at the time. Hatred and tensions spread like wildfires across the country. And, in a rare display, the shoe was on the other foot. I can go on and on about how black folks feel like they've been given the short end of the stick in trial cases from the 1600's all the way to now, but that's not the point. OJ Simpson was pivotal in shedding light on just how racist people were (are).

All that being said...the man is an idiot. 13 years later, he's still caught up in mess. Can't seem to sit his dumb butt down and be thankful he hasn't been in prison the last 13 years. Trying to make a quick buck trying to write books that are so inappropriate and disrespectful (If I Did It). The man just doesn't get it. And whether it stemmed from 1995 or not, OJ finally got what he just couldn't seem to avoid. And I'm not going to sit up here and blame it on race or revenge and all of that. OJ should have sat his a$$ down somewhere and not have gotten himself into aNOTHER predicament. But didn't work like that and here we are now. Set back, once again, dealing with the same issues that seem to never go away. Race.

And, this happens at SUCH an important time period for all people of color. In less than a month, we will be a part of the biggest election of our lives when Barack Obama runs against John McCain for the presidency of the United States of America on Nov 4th. This idea, this dream of a black man running this country started out as just a whisper. But now, people are realizing that this could be a reality. But the idea is still so very fragile that we (And I don't just mean Black folks. I mean WE as in people who really care about the state of this country and want to see some positive change) don't need any distractions. So many people are against this that any ammunition will be taken and blown out of proportion.

And as I write this, I'm thinking how can I even reference the two in the same blog. And the answer is simple: It's because, we still live in an era and country that associates the negative images of black people to the collective whole. And every time OJ pops up on the television for doing something stupid, some person in some small, non segregated town (yes, they still have those) says "see. I told you". And it's unwanted distraction from the greatness that is going on right now. OJ's like a rash that won't go away. Every time you think you've got it cured, it pops right back up.

I've digressed slightly. OJ. at 61, you're an older man. And you're going to probably spend the rest of your life in prison. And I feel bad for you. Because I couldn't imagine going to prison at that age. Hell, any age. But, after I was acquitted back in 1995, you probably wouldn't have ever heard from me again. Because I would have counted my blessings. Packed my stuff up and faded to black. And everybody would have been left wondering, what happened to J Lee. But not you, OJ. Not you.

"N***a forgot to duck"
-Denzel Washington as 'Trip' in Glory

"And though it seems Heaven sent
we ain't ready, to have a Black President
-2 Pac - 1991

"America surprise us
and let a Black man guide us"
Yes we can
Change the world"
-Nas - 2008

Being Broke Makes You Sleepy

2008-09-23T15:48:00.000-07:00

You ever notice that? That being broke makes you dog tired? I've been researching this phenomenon for the past few months to figure out why this is. It is quite fascinating, actually.

When you don't have any money (cake, cheese, guap, moolah, bread, funds, cheddah, beaucoup bucks, dough,) you can't do s***. You can't go out to eat. You can't go shopping. You can't go to the movies. And if you do, before you even go to the place you're trying to go SPEND the money you don't have, you gotta put gas in your car. So you're stuck at the house. Stuck at the house thinking of all the stuff you can't do. Or thinking about when your next paycheck is gonna come in. And that's no fun. Nobody wants to do that. That's absolutely horrible. So what do you do? You sit down and watch a lil television. Sports Center. Oprah. Ellen. Judge Judy. Then, this is when the magic happens. After doing nothing physically straining at all, all of a sudden you feel tired. You feel like you've done a full days worth of work. And your eyes get tired. Your brain is tired about thinking about the money you don't have. So it needs a mini vacation. Just a quick reboot. And the nap is here before you know it.

Then you wake up from your nap confused and looking at the bottom of your glass to see who put something in it. But there's nothing in your glass. Just like there's nothing in your wallet. Which, is why you're tired.

That's it. I'm about to go take a quick lil power nap.

New Pic

2008-09-12T13:01:00.001-07:00

Here's a couple still photos of my character from the new Seth MacFarlane's Cavalcade! And dig this, I played the character of the bouncer who wouldn't let Fred and Barney into the club lol. Check back later to find out when my episode airs on sethcomedy.com

Peace
JL

Cavalcade!

2008-09-10T18:47:00.000-07:00

Last night, I went to the premiere party for Seth MacFarlane's new Cavalcade show I was blessed enough to do some Voice Over work for the show (they actually drew the character to look like me...will add pic soon). The site launched today and they will be premiering new episodes weekly. Don't think my skit is up yet, but keep checking in. You can see them at http://www.sethcomedy.com/
But the party was good. They had press there and I was asked to do an interview. I was sippin and tippin a lil bit so we'll see how that came out lol. Blame the open bar! But all and all, it was a good night

And tomorrow, I'll be participating in the new 'Cleveland Show' table read with my boy Mike Henry (co-creator and executive producer) , Nia Long, Sanaa Lathan, and Kevin Michael Richardson.

The picture below is of myself and Andy Tauke, editor of the Cavalcade shows.

"I don't like it unless it's brand new"
-Kanye West

R.I.P to the CLUB

2008-09-05T01:51:00.000-07:00

So...I've decided that I'm over the club scene. The scene I used to watch over and over every weekend has now gotten played out and I'm finally hanging up my traditional club clothes.

A buddy of mine just moved out to LA from the crib, and of course, he wanted to go out and kick it and I wasn't even remotely excited like I used to be. Now, me being here for a little bit, have gotten used to the bullshit that runs ramped out here. And it sucks major balls, but if you don't have some kind of hookup out here, you're not going to have a good time. But, I decided to take him out to this spot up the street anyway. And I had the worst time ever.

Listen, If you don't have a hookup or some cheese to drop on table service, your night is pretty much going to go as follows:
You and your boys start getting dressed. Ironing clothes, putting on cologne, shaving. Maybe have a pre drink at the crib and you hit the streets to pull some premium babes. You get to the club and drive right pass the valet, because no way you're paying $20 to valet your Kia. And you decide to park way down the street, double check the parking signs, and head towards the club. Now you might not know it, but this is about as much fun as you're going to have all night. Walking up to the club with your boys and your high aspirations and your jokes and your promising night...

Back to reality... you get to the club. See that there are two lines, but neither one of them are moving. Just a mob of scantily clad women texting and pulling each other to the front saying 'it's just us four girls'. Nevertheless, you pick a line, and go stand in it. Now you're in line, looking at all the women who don't even notice you and your raggedy friends, and you just can't WAIT to get inside. Meanwhile, people are flowing in right pass the velvet rope because they 'know' somebody. But still, you don't let this cramp your style. After an hour, you finally make your way to the front and the bouncer places his hand on your chest and demands to know what list you're on. You reply "umm, nobody's I guess. Me and my fellas just want to hang out..." He cuts you off without eye contact "Twenty bucks each". You look back at your compadres and give them a look of reassurance with undertones of 'don't worry guys. Just a minor setback. It's gonna be so much fun when we get inside! Trust me'. So you guys shell out $100 for you and your four friends to get inside. You get inside and now, it's on! You guys look around, let the beat fill your body, and your smile comes back to you.

Now, you've convinced yourself that you got your 'swag' back. You do the typical walk through the club with your awkward bouncing and acting like whatever song is on is your favorite to get any type of female eye contact you can muster and prolonging your 'arrival'. After that failed attempt at exposure, you look to your cast mates and suggest a round of drinks.

So now you make your way to the overly crowded bar. Push and shove your way to the front and pay another $50-$60 bucks for a round of drinks. You guys take a couple sips and it's back to for another walk thru. Again, getting no results. Now at this point, your drinks are gone and you've gotten no bites on your bait. Suggestion. ANOTHER ROUND OF DRINKS! Back to the bar you go, THIS time you guys decided to go ahead and get a shot as well. Can't get courage without courage juice! So fork over another $90 bucks for a round of drinks and shots.

At this point, it's starting to get kind of packed in the club and if you're going to make a move, it's gotta be now. Crunch time. And you have finally added enough 'crunk juice' to hit the only place you'll probably get any type of attention; the dance floor. And it's HILARIOUS and SAD at the same time how this next portion works. But you dance in a circle with your buddies, doing the traditional 2-step. And occasionally you'll flash a stupid ass looking smile at any chick that looks your way. If that doesn't get the job done, you'll go up to a chick who you've been watching for the past 20 minutes who's dancing with her girls and sneak up behind her and begin to bump your pelvis against her butt. And if she DOESN"T turn around with disgust and/or walk away, you've successfully made contact. But you're not in the clear yet, because her friend is in front of her urging her to 'hurry up' because she's just the type of friend who can't stand when her overly mediocre friend dances with more overly mediocre guys than she. So your best chance of scoring has now been pulled away from you and lost in the sea of club-goers. And you feel bad, even though you've only seen the back of her big ass head and grabbed her hips for a millisecond. But for that brief moment...you found action. You won. you did it.

Lights flash. Last call. Desperation time. Now, it's like you're at the drive-thru at popeyes hoping for anything with a breast and a leg. But you don't even get that. 'Cause the premiums have already left and you're looking at the bottom of the barrels. And to add irony to it, one of your boys has all of a sudden gotten 'over it' and now wants to go home so he can call his girlfriend he forgot he had when he was talking about banging a new chick earlier that night.

Eventually you leave, shirts wrinkled and untucked, smelling like tequila, sweat, and what used to be cologne, and walk way back down to your car. Another one of your boys offers some last minute evaluation saying "the girls in there weren't even that tight!" And you all try to believe that bulls***. You guys pile in the car and turn it on and realize that the music is up WAY to high and you wonder how in the f***k you were listening to it that loud in the first place. But the passenger turns down the music and you guys ride home in silence. Defeated. Game Over. You lose.

And while lying in your bed that night, you suddenly realize that you spent way to much money on some watered down drinks, the DJ played the same damn singles that you're tired of hearing on the radio, and you've got to go to Church in the morning. But there's always next week. You'll get another shot at the champ next week. Just get through that work week and it can all be yours.

Moral of the story. Change your reasoning for going out. Going out with your friends just to dance and have a couple of drinks and fellowship: Great. Going out and searching for something you can pump in the next 48 hours: Creepy.

JL

"I hit the club with a b-boy stance, the club owner like...
who the f*** is that."
-Dolla

Surround yourself...

2008-08-18T08:55:00.000-07:00

With people who inspire you. I just had a GREAT meeting with one of the most successful and influential TV producers in Hollywood. Why? Because I wanted to sit down and talk to somebody who's gotten somewhere I'm trying to get. So instead of sitting at the bottom of the hill and telling myself it's going to take forEVER to get up there. I went to the top, and asked somebody who's got a nice lil piece of land up there, how he did it.

And it was cool. We sat back, laughed, joked, and he gave me some very insightful information on this crazy crazy industry. My mom used to say the CRAZIEST things to me when I moved out. Stuff like, "Why don't you call Will Smith! He's somebody who could help you out." Really, ma? You can't just dial up Will Smith and talk to him. But, there's something very motivational in that. Because she's actually kind of right. There's nothing wrong with seeking out help and advice from people who can give it. And people WANT to give it. People WANT to help. That's what I've learned. But you have to take a very strong and forceful stance on your career and be proactive at all times.

Holla dolla!!

"Birds of a feather, flock together"
-Unknown

Confirmation...?

2008-08-05T17:40:00.000-07:00

Wow. The movie business is a craaaazy business. This script deal has been one of the most frustrating events for me. You would think that I'd be in a state of pure bliss and happiness because of the deal. And I was...last September 2007! Since then, negotiations and meetings and more meetings to negotiate a new meeting have taken the wind out of my sales. I'm just waiting on my check at this point lol.

It'd be like this: You get hired to work at your FAVORITE establishment. Let's just say...you're hired as the Regional director for Gucci. You get paid $150K per year and you get an 80% discount at EVERY store in the world. And you only have to work 35 hours a week. Sounds great, right? So you go in and sign paperwork agreeing to work. Then, you start working but your first month, you don't get paid. You think...okay, no biggie. Probably still have to get my info into the system. It's a big contract etc etc etc. So the 2nd month, you still don't get paid. So you're definitely getting frustrated at this point, but your manager is saying 'don't worry, it's coming. Call first thing in the morning'. So...this goes on for another month. It's month 3 now, right? Now, you're frustrated. You've gone 3 months without getting paid. And in order to use your discount, you need a paycheck stub. So you can't even use your incredible discount. And you didn't go off and get another job because, you thought you already had a dope gig.

LAST straw, right? You storm into your manager's office and say 'Hey..where's my damn check?! I ain't playin no more! I've been patiently waiting.' He says 'yeah, there was just a small mixup in accounting. Thanks for being so patient. I have your check in my car. I'm going to go get that now. No problem'. So you sit there with your chest puffed out, feeling good. Taking charge. Gimmie MY damn money, right? 10, 15, 20 minutes go by and the manager doesn't come back. You call his cell and he says 'oh, I actually have to pick it up from the west side building. Call first thing in the morning and I'll deliver it to you'

Now, you've stopped even looking around the store for all the s*** you were GOING to buy with your dope discount. You're struggling to pay rent, 'cause you thought you were getting paaaaid, you've got a rash 'cause you're stressed out, and you drop your phone down an elevator shaft...all hypothetical of course. But it's coming....we're just waiting on...

Confirming a confirmed confirmation...

JL

'Now what I look like?
And if it ain't money, then I don't look right'

Weezy

Sign Here Mr. Lee!

2008-07-29T10:09:00.000-07:00

So I'm officially official! As of yesterday, I...J Lee, signed my first movie deal! After months of negotiations and lawyer and manager talk, I FINALLY signed the deal for my script. We're working with Overbrook Entertainment and the script is bananas!!

So now, it's back to the lab to make this project as hot as possible. But now, ya boy is official. I'll write more at a later date.

But in other news, I just got off the phone with my nephew and found out he was held at gunpoint during a robbery last night. My nephew, 18, works at a little store for the summer and a guy came in and held him hostage. Took him to the back to the manager's office and robbed the place. I talked to him today and he sounded like he was okay. I'm just thankful that nothing happened. Because I'd be on the 1st thing smoking to St. Louis looking for that cat. But life is short people. You never know what can happen to you so tell the people you love that you love them. And the people you haven't talked to in awhile, call them. Because you never know what life throws at you.

"I'm looking at you people different,
I paid my dues, you can keep the difference'

-Lil Wayne

Focused

2008-06-08T21:05:00.001-07:00

Man...I was fortunate enough to go to the Kanye West "Glow In The Dark Concert" last night. First, let me start by saying..our seats were absolutely ridiculous. Staples Center. 30 thousand plus. Floor Seats. Center. 10 rows back. And that was my first big concert experience, so the bar is raised pretty high as for as experiences go. Lupe Fiasco, N.E.R.D, and Rianna opened up for Kanye.

Kanye's performance was so dope. I've always been a K West fan, but after seeing his show live, and really hearing him spit the lines he spits in person along with seeing his energy. I became a fan again.

On the music tip, I can really relate to a lot of the stuff he says. Look, people, when you're as passionate about something as a person like Kanye is...there's nothing anyone can do to knock you off your path. Like Lil Weezy said "Coach, they won't knock me off my pivot, forget it".

I always say "I can't knock your hustle". Even if it's something I don't agree with, if you're hustling with a passion doing something you really love, I can't knock it. A lot of people have opinions about what I do and how I should do it. But when you're focused, I mean REALLY focused, it doesn't matter what people think. Because you see something they don't. And you may not have time to stop and explain it, but you'll eventually show them.

Kanye performed "I Wonder". And the hook goes ..."and I wonder if you know what it means, to find your dreams". If you watched him perform and his passion and listened to the words, you actually SAW what it looked like for a person to have their dream. He is doing what he absolutely LOVES to do and gets paid for it. That's a goal all people strive to achieve. I am on that same path. Times get tough. Things are never as easy as planned, but at the end of the day...I love what I do. And I think everybody should do the same.

In closing, I came across this video of Kanye. Whether you like him or not, just listen to what he's saying and realize that when you're on your grizzy like you should be, and you BELIEVE in yourself like you should...you can't be stopped.

Am I in the right place?!

2008-05-26T12:28:00.001-07:00

Results...

We all keep searching for them. Searching and searching and searching, and a lot of times, you don't really see them when you want to see them. Right now, I'm looking around and I don't see any results. No extra results on my bookshelf. Didn't hang any results on the wall. Didn't get a tattoo of my latest result on my arm. Nope. Looks like I've got no results.

But I have to look deeper. I've done a lot of good things since coming to LA. And the thing I've realized is that you don't become a success overnight. If you're serious about this thing, you have to go at it hard 150%, regardless of the immediate result. Keyword: Regardless. You've got to do the thing you love and know in your soul and body that your success will stem from that.

When I was working at Family Guy, we used to spend part of our lunch break playing Halo in the conference room. And when I finally decided to take the leap of faith and leave FG to pursue my career full time, they got me this poster and everybody signed it. I went back and looked at what some of the people said and it honestly brought tears to my eyes. See, when your back is against the wall, the first thing one wants to do is self reflect. And sometimes, this lil' bastard called 'doubt' finds his way inside. (And he comes with two other unwelcomed guests ; Fear and Disbelief...see previous blog) And in that doubt, you start to doubt the things that got you this far. Doubt if you're good enough, Doubt if you're strong enough. Doubt if you're talented enough. But you can't let doubt be the only one in your ear coaching. Reading those comments made me realize that even if I forget to believe in myself and my talent and journey at hand, OTHER people have not. And if other people see the flame, it's up to me to make sure it never goes out.

So, I guess what I'm trying to say is to never let your flame burn out. If it gets low, go back to the basics and to what ignited that flame. And reaffirm to yourself that you're doing the right thing and you're in the right place.

"If you are what you say you are, a superstar, then have no fear
the camera's here and the lights are on, and they want a show'
-Lupe Fiasco

We finally...

2008-04-18T15:56:00.000-07:00

Got it!

Will explain more later.

HOLLLLLA
JL

My happiness...

2008-03-23T21:10:00.000-07:00

...is not dependent by yours.

My birthday was about a week ago and I had one helluva self-reflection day. The day started off great. My father went to church with me, Easter Sunday, and that was a miracle in itself. That was the 1st time that my father and I had been to church together. Ever. The last time we were in the same church was when my grandmother, his mom, passed away. And that was almost 15 years ago.

I had a long conversation with my older sister about how we are the way we are. Your parents are such a strong influence on the people you are today and it's astonishing once you realize it. And what I have inherited from my mother is the 'people pleaser' trait. It is ingrained in my DNA at this point to try to please others. Sometimes before myself. My mom is the type of person, that if you even speak about a problem you may have, it is officially something that my mother will try to fix. She will take on your problem and try to fix it to make you happy. Even if you never asked for that help.

And that is a great thing: that my mother is such a helpful person. She can fix any problem, handle any situation, and nothing is too big of a task. The only problem is, that she has been such a dependable person for so long, people have now taken that for granted. Instead of "wow, I have no idea how Carol Lee made that happen" , it is now "Oh...you have a big problem? Don't worry, Carol can fix it". So people now EXPECT it. And the more you expect something, the less you appreciate it. And the crazy thing is, my mother gets no joy from it anymore. I don't know if you can understand this, but if my mother sees something that can be fixed, it physically bothers her until she fixes it. Here's an example:

If a group of us went to a restaurant and everybody's food came out perfectly except yours. But you didn't even say anything. It was just obvious that you didn't like what you got. And when my mom asked you, 'what's wrong' you'd obviously respond by saying' nothing'. At that point, my mother would physically have to fix your problem. She would either tell the waiter to send it back, or go back and tell the chef to re-fix it...but whatever she did, she would not be able to physically be able to enjoy the rest of HER meal, until YOURS was satisfied.

And as I grow and learn more about myself, I realize that I am definitely my mother's child. But where I'mma get off the train, is sacrificing my happiness for yours. If I'm at that restaurant and your food comes out messed up, yeah, I'd be upset. Because I want everybody to be happy. I want everybody to have a good time. And, because I know I could probably do something to fix it. Even though you didn't ask me. But if I ask you what's wrong, and you say 'nothing'. That's where I leave it. I'm going to let people fight their own battles. And I know this is a small example, but the point is the same.

If I lost or confused any of my readers...I can't say that I care on this one. This was a self-reflection post.

"How can I f*** up your self-esteem? B***h, it's called SELF - esteem"
-Kat Williams

Me and my pops

2008-03-21T22:58:00.000-07:00

So check it...my dad came out to Los Angeles a few weeks ago to give his daughter away in marriage. After the wedding, he spent some time out at her house and then came to spend a couple weeks at my place.

It's so funny how life works itself out sometimes. Growing up, my pops wasn't really around. But now, as an adult (who's about to have another birthday this Sunday) me and my pops are sitting here drinking some brews and watching March Madness highlights.

But we're having a blast. Sharing some laughs. Sharing some memories. And if you had asked me when I was a little kid, and I didn't want my weekend visits to ever end, if I'd be sitting here with one of my best friends drinking a beer....and that that best friend would be my dad; I would have thought you were crazy.

Anyway. Don't want to get all mushy. Love my pops. Love my moms. I have great parents. And that's it. Holla
JL

IT'S OFFICIAL

2008-02-13T09:52:00.000-08:00

Cynopsis
02/13/08

Good Morning. It's Wednesday, February 13, 2008, and this is your first early morning briefing.

It's official! Put down your picket signs, the writers' strike is over. Last evening members of the Writers Guilds East and West voted by a 92.5% margin to lift the restraining order that was invoked on November 5th. In a statement from Patric M. Verrone, President/WGA West reads in part:

"This was not a strike we wanted, but one we had to conduct in order to win jurisdiction and establish appropriate residuals for writing in new media and on the Internet. Those advances now give us a foothold in the digital age. Rather than being shut out of the future of content creation and delivery, writers will lead the way as TV migrates to the Internet and platforms for new media are developed."

Post Strike plans:
Saturday Night Live will return to production just as soon as possible with the strike now over. First show back on the air is expected to be on February 23rd - no guest host announced as yet.
Lifetime Television will soon begin season two production of Army Wives with an early summer premiere scheduled, now that the strike is over.
CBS will not go back into production with Cane for this season, which doesn't say anything outright about next season, but the implication isn't good. Same is true for The CW's Life is Wild - no more shows for this season.
On the flip side, CBS has ordered Sharks and Rules of Engagement to go back into production, as well as New Adventures of Old Christine and Two and a Half Men (duh).
And the bad news for 24 fans ... that show won't return now until January 2009. The strike (and a little jail time) interrupted production.

Beginning of a new era

2008-02-11T15:11:00.000-08:00

So, after months and months of a barren land of nothingness..looks like the WGA strike is finally going to be over this week. I know this has been pretty much the talk of the entire entertainment town and I'm sure everybody can breathe easier now.

But the strike was beneficial for me. Things were slower. Not as many auditions. Not as many gigs. And while that sucks financially, it helps mentally in a weird way. I found myself less stressed and not as 'hurried' as I was. I've said this before, but you get so caught up in moving moving moving, that you forget how to be a normal person and let things come when they're supposed to come. So for me, it just took a lot of pressure off of my shoulders.

NOT TO MENTION...that the projects that we had finished before the strike, are now in much better positions. I've made many new contacts and have been able to get my work out to people that I never would have had the strike not hit. So, like most obstacles in life, it was a blessing in disguise.

So now it's back to work. This industry is about to start BOOMING again and I'mma throw myself right in the mix to make sure I don't get passed up on anything.

And things are shaping up so nicely for me that, in a few years, you'll have to discuss me in a way that has never been discussed before.

"First of all, Servants of all, we shall Transcend all"
-Alpha Phi Alpha'

J Lee

Unsettling Feeling

2008-02-09T20:48:00.000-08:00

I've got this really unsettled feeling brewing inside of me. I feel like I'm at a major crossroad in my life, and when I pass through it, a LOT of things in my life are going to change. And that's scary and exciting at the same time. But it's one of those things, that after it happens, you'll never be able to be that person that you were before you went through that light.

And I'm trying to figure out how to deal with it. To all my frat bruhs..it's almost like before you crossed. After you cross, so many things change and you're no longer that same person beforehand. You're (insert name), the Alpha now. And I feel like I'm about to cross. And just like when I crossed Alpha, I became President, won awards, took the chapter to another level, did things that had never been done before, put my stamp on my chapter, and did it with such a passion that it will hopefully always be remembered. I feel like I'm about to cross. And when it's all said and done, J Lee will have done something that has never been done before.

Just some insight. Holla
JL

"And you all are witness
but I am not finished
so keep your mouth closed
and let your eyes listen."

"I know the game is crazy, more crazy than it's ever been
I'm married to that bitch, call me Kevin Federline.

-Lil Wayne

Jason

He Got Game!

2008-02-07T15:37:00.001-08:00

Here are a few new photos from a recent photo shoot I had. Trying to get my athletic, hoop star thang going. And yes, I am one of the coldest point guards from the midwest. You heard correctly. :-)

"I'm goin' hard in the paint like Diesel time
either I'm the illest cat doin' it, or these cats is losin' it"
-Lil Weezy

I think...

2008-02-06T12:56:00.000-08:00

my seeds are starting to grow. I've been working hard since I got to Los Angeles and doing any and everything I can to pursue my dreams. And Lord knows it's been a grinding process, but a rewarding one. The tough thing about this industry is the waiting game. You work so hard for something and expect to see results for your hard work immediately...but see, we work in a 'hurry up and wait' game.

You get cast as a lead in a movie. Great! You can't wait to see yourself on the big screen. But you have to shoot it, edit, post production, and sometimes they delay the release. So you might not get to see the benefits of your work until months later. And the lack of instant gratification is pretty hard to swallow sometimes.

But today, I got a few great phone calls regarding my seeds. I've got about 3 projects that are on the verge of really turning into something great. I mean...really great. And after I got off the phone I was charged up! Ready to go. Excited about the good news. But now...I gotta wait for my lawyer to call me back to get this thing moving. lol. Waiting.

Ok..I'll write more later. Peace

J Lee

I'm...

2008-01-17T14:08:00.000-08:00

Claiming it. Patriots. Christian. Thanksgiving.

Ballinnnnn'!!

2008-01-02T13:19:00.001-08:00

So, if you read my post yesterday, you already know about my early 2008 test. To keep it short, I started the year off broke as a joke. But dig what happened yesterday...

After I wrote that blog, I went up to the gym to hit the weights and do some shooting drills. Since it was the 1st day of the year, the gym wasn't particularly packed, but there were a few randoms scattered around the basketball court. They asked if I want to play a game of 4 on 4, which I don't usually do, but I did anyway. After the game, some guy I've NEVER seen before comes up to me and says "I bet you $100 I can hit more 3-pointers than you". I looked around and after I realized he was actually speaking to me, I laughed. I replied "Good one, buddy". But he insisted. "What, you ain't got it or something? I'll put up $100 that says I can hit more 3's than you. Best of out 15!"

Now, if you had seen this guy's jumper, you would have laughed. I honestly thought he was joking. But after he pulled out his $100 bill, I realized that, this dude was actually SERIOUS! At this point, most of my boys were like, "J...Just do it. Just do it."

Now, needless to say, I didn't even have a solid DOLLAR on me. Plus, I didn't know they still made random cats who want to bet money on the basketball courts. I thought that went out after "White Men Can't Jump" left theaters.

But after more prodding and joking at my expense, I decided to play along. I told him "look, I don't bring $100 bills to the court...but you know what? I'll put up my ipod against your hundy". I took my $500 ipod out of the case and put it with his hundred for a friend to hold.

Before I shot my first jumper, I was thinking to myself "J, either this is the easiest money you're about to make, or you're about to get your black ass hustled". But before I could think about it anymore, I had already hit 3 shots in a row.

After I hit 8 of 15, I won and took my $100 bill, sat down, and started laughing. I honestly couldn't have scripted a more ironic or funny scene even if I tried. lol. That is all. And you know what I did after I won $100? Ya boy bought GROCERIES!!! I'm a baller, baby. Baller. hahahahahahahahaha. GROCERIES??? Are you kidding me? Peace.

'And who said there's no such thing as a free lunch?!"
-Chiwetel Ejiofor - "Four Brothers"

Early TESTimony

2008-01-01T11:36:00.000-08:00

Greetings all and welcome to 2008. This year plans to be filled with new and exciting things and blah blah blah. We already know that. I'm about to put my money (ha) where my mouth is and do what I'm always preaching. And that's give thanks in advance. Prepare, Expect, and Welcome your blessing before it even happens.

My sister called me the other day and she said "in order to have a testimony, you have to have a TEST". I checked my account this morning, and ya boy got his first test of 2008. My account has a whopping .07 cents in it as we speak. Settle down, settle down, I'm pretty sure you've never seen cake like that, but I'll be making it rain as soon as I take it out of the bank. All 7 cents. Raining down on some lucky woman at a seedy club. But I've digressed.

Now, most people would panic. Go into shock. Get all worried and bothered and stressed out. I, also, am one of those people. But AFTER I did that, I realized that if my 2008 starts out like this, my year can only get better. So I'm going to go ahead and thank Him now because He didn't bring me this far to let me fail. And at the end of this year, I will post another bank account picture, and we'll see if we can find the differences in the two pictures lol.

You see, I'm not going to be one of those people that says "2008 is my year and 2008 is gonna be huge etc" because my 2007 was that year. You have to plant a seed and let it grow. And now, most of my seeds are planted and they're beginning to sprout. So I'll see the rewards in 2008, but the seeds have actually been planted and watered and nurtured since I moved to LA in 2004, ya dig? And with rewards, come more seeds. So if you call me and I don't answer, I'm probably in the garden. Planting.

So 2008, it's nice to meet you too. We may have gotten off on a rough start, but I have a feeling we'll be best friends come December.

Peace, love, and nappiness.
JL

"Having money's not everything,
Not having it is."
-Kanye West

"Wait 'till I get my money right"
-Kanye West

The Little Book Of Confidence

2007-12-28T10:54:00.000-08:00

A long time ago, my mom gave me 2 books. One was called the "Bible Promises" and we'll get to that in a future post. The other is called "The Little Book Of Confidence", written by Susan Jeffers. And it is literally a 'little' book. It fits inside of your hand. And in this book, it gives small words of encouragement to affirm your self confidence and self worth. What's interesting, is the fact that we all have the ability to shape how we are viewed. Just by believing in ourselves. I suggest you go out and get it. You can read it within 10 minutes probably.

Now, some people say confidence, I say swagger. Really, it's one in the same. But if you doubt yourself, others will doubt you. If you don't think you're capable or qualified, you better believe nobody else will. So it starts within.

So I challenge you to set a small goal. Doesn't matter what, but just set a goal for something and then do it. Go out and make it happen. Once you realize that you can do it with smaller things, you will eventually start to see that you can do it with all things. And then, you find that balance of preparation and readiness and when your opportunity comes, you'll be not only ready, but expectant.

"Behind me is infinate power.
Before me is endless possibility.
Around me is boundless opportunity.
Why should I fear?"

"Having money's not everything,
-not having it is"

-Kanye West

Peace to the 07!

2007-12-12T11:10:00.000-08:00

I have no clue where this year went! It flew by so fast, as do most years I suppose. And even though I got a LOT accomplished in the year 07, I feel like it was gone in a blur. But I took the time to sit down, and write out all the things I was thankful for and all the things I accomplished in the year, and I had to sit and smile and thank God. He has brought me so far in so little time.

This is a marathon, not a sprint. And I've noticed that I've been planting seeds constantly since I've moved to Los Angeles. Constantly finding new talents and ways to make it in this industry. Constantly growing as a person and as a man. Sometimes, I feel like a seasoned veteran. A man who knows exactly what he wants out of life. A man who doesn't understand the words 'failure' or 'cant'. A man who has it all planned out. And then other times, I'm like a kid in a candy store. A kid who doesn't want to have it all figured out. A kid who wants to just go with the flow and see where this 'thing' takes me. A kid who smiles at the most random things.

I like those guys. Then there's the 'it ain't never enough' guy. He's the guy who comes out and demands deadlines and tells you that you aren't nearly as successful as you should be. Work harder! Grind harder! He takes the other two and kidnaps them and comes out to take control. He's the guy who gets stuff done, but can't even enjoy it, because he's on to the next thing. He doesn't come out often. I try to keep him busy. He's never full. So the more I stay busy, the more he's satisfied. I don't think he'll ever truly get full, but I can keep him satisfied.

But, 07 is almost gone and 08 is about to rise over the hill in a few weeks. I don't do new years resolutions or anything. But I do map out a plan for the year. Goals I want to meet. Things I want to accomplish etc. It's a good feeling. And, I wrote a blog last year (Let's Get It http://jlee25.blogspot.com/2007/01/lets-get-it.html) Go read that. What's funny, is that everything I wrote in that blog, came true. I looked at my list and I had to smile to myself.

So continue to grind it out and make your dreams happen but take them day by day and be thankful along the way. Nobody can rob you of your dreams faster than you can. Trust me. Go make your list. Holla!

"If you are what you say you are
a superstar
then have no fear
the camera's here, and the lights are on
and they want a show!"

-Lupe Fiasco

Good F*****N Movie

2007-11-25T19:33:00.000-08:00

I like good movies. I love 'em. Matter of fact, I'm probably one of the worst people to watch a movie at home with, because I'll keep pausing and rewind over and over. If it's a funny part, if it's a well acted scene, if it's a well written monologue...I just love it. It makes me smile. And I'm corny like that sometimes. I just like good movies.

I like movies that make you feel something. I've said this before...when it's said and done, and I've put my stamp on this industry, I want you to either love or hate my s***. But don't give me 'eh, it was alright'. Alright is for the birds. Alright is just good enough to forget once you leave the theater. But I want "I loved it" or "I hated it" , because you remember those.

I'm about to get back to watching Good Will Hunting. Goodbye.

"Class back in sessions so I upped it a grade
In two years Dwayne Wade became Dwayne Wade"
-Kanye West

Laaaaazy Sunday

2007-11-25T16:08:00.000-08:00

It's Sunday. December is almost here. Nov 18th was my 7 year anniversary of joining my wonderful fraternity, Alpha Phi Alpha. 7 years. Man, I can't believe it. But as they say, college days swiftly pass.

But that has nothing to do with today. Today, I'm just chillin at my place watching movies all day. I've been pretty bored/restless lately. I'm waiting for stuff to happen, but also trying to be proactive in the downtime. Umm...what else. Oh, side note. Coming To America is a HILARIOUS movie. That' what I'm watching right now. After that, I'll probably go to the gym. Because that's about all I do: Eat, go to the gym, hoop, write, audition. I can't wait until we start shooting my next film.

I'm just rambling because I haven't posted in a while. I'm out.

JL

Waiting...

2007-10-31T15:56:00.001-07:00

Ahh, waiting is soooo difficult. Sometimes, you just want things when you want them, ya know?

Update on Medusa: The Beginning: The studio gave us an offer and now, my new entertainment lawyer is going back with a counter. Just putting some things in the contract that will protect us in the end. The deal looks like it's going to be great. Just waiting for the final go ahead so I can really get excited. Until then, I'm apprehensive because I don't want to count my chickens before they hatch. But on the flip side, I'm pretty sure everything will work out fine.

Seth MacFarlane gave me a bottle of Cristal when I left Family Guy. And I told him I wouldn't open it until a sold a script or a TV show. I'm hoping I can pop this bottle within the next week or so!!!

Umm, what else? Oh...I was a part of a table read yesterday. Tim Story (Barbershop, Fantastic Four) is directing a new film, and they had a read of the script. I did a pretty good job...well, that's what I was told at least. And the part I was reading is perfect for me. Don't know how far along the project is, but I'll keep ya posted.

I'mma go make some ice and get ready to put my bottle on it.

Today...

2007-10-17T18:03:00.001-07:00

Was hillarious to me. I woke up, went and hit the gym to get a workout in. Then I had to rush home and take a shower so I could get to the barbershop. Had to get a fresh cut. Going out of town this weekend for a big 'ol Alpha reunion so I gotta look fresh...anyway, I've digressed.

So, I end up being a little late for my cut, because traffic in LA sucks monkey balls. Left there, rushed to an audition (which I think I did a pretty good job) and then went to the mall to drop of something for a friend who works there. While we're walking through the mall, she's like "are you looking for part time work?" Now, if you've been following the life and times of J Lee ,you'll know that I have some HUGE irons in the fire. Some pretty big projects on the horizon and in the midst of being finalized. But until that check comes through...ya boy has to make ends meet. So the idea of a weekly check, doesn't sound that bad right about now.

So, she takes me into the store and introduces me to the manager. The manager was excited and wanted to do an interview on the spot. I told her 'well, lemme fill this out real quick, and then I'll bring it back'. So I go out, sit down, and start filling out this application. And I got as far as writing my name down and then just started laughing. Do you know how long it's been since I've filled out a normal application. My damn resume...is an ACTOR'S resume. Not the kind with "I'm seeking employment blah blah blah", but mine has my acting credits on it. I couldn't even finish the application.

I'm at the point where I don't need jobs. I need my career. When I moved to LA, it was to be an actor. Since I've gotten here, I've learned about some other talents (writing, producing etc) and am continuing to hone those down as much as possible. But, at some point, I have to do what I say I do. Some people say "well, J...it's not that easy. Acting jobs are hard to come by and the number of actors outweighs the number of gigs. You have to have a side gig to pay bills etc." And I totally agree with that. My bank account is on tilt right about now, and not tilting in the right direction. But that's the way it goes. I'm gonna keep riding this train until my ship comes in. I refuse to lose confidence in myself. Once that goes, that confidence and that drive and that will to do it no matter what it takes...once that goes, it's a wrap. You might as well pack your bags and head back to the hometown. But not me. Broke or rich, I'm still an entertainer. But I won't be an entertainer working a job I hate. That's the whole reason I moved out here; to chase the dreams. To not wake up and hate going to work. I don't want that. So why do it?

In closing I say, to each his own. I know a lot of actors/writers who have side gigs to stay afloat in LA. And I don't knock the hustle. But if I don't want to go to a job. I want to work on this career. Bump money. Soon, I'll have so much money that it will be the least of my worries. I ain't trippin. I'll eat these peanut butter sammiches until my ship comes in. But I know it's coming. I know it. There's no doubt in my mind that it's coming. And it's close. I'm bout to go pack...holla

JL

New Rep

2007-10-10T14:57:00.001-07:00

I just got off the phone with my new manager! Looking forward to working with her. She specializes in multi talented artists, so this seems like it may be a perfect fit for me. She already has a pretty solid plan to get on board with the J Lee career and I'm just excited to have somebody else excited to be working with me. So far, my 3 years in LA have been mainly me doing everything on my own. I mean, I'm walking into studios, sitting down with execs and selling my materials without as much as an agent. So, it'll be a much different feeling to be able to have my manager handle all of the nitty gritty stuff, and I can just focus on acting and writing and being a creative talent.

Also, I have a new entertainment lawyer. He's been great so far, helping out with the studio deal. Hopefully, that deal is finalized this week! Then, I can pay some bills, ya dig. lol. I'm afraid to even open up some of these credit card statements. I just wanna call and say, "I want to pay off the whole balance. Don't tell me how much it is...just make sure it's a 0 balance".

And, besides that...I'm trying to enjoy the new status of my career, but also keeping my eyes on the prize and not rest on my laurels.

J Lee

Moves

2007-10-02T16:21:00.000-07:00

Soooo..

Ahhhh busy busy bumblebee. The past 2 months for me have been crazy. As you probably know, I had my big 1 man show performance a week or so ago (damn, it went by that quickly) and I'm stuck in the horrible position that an artist is always stuck in....now what? As an artist, you work day in and day out on a project and then, after your performance(s), you celebrate for a quick minute and then it's time to get back on the horse.

I had a great meeting with a studio yesteray regarding one of my big projects. And I'm trying to walk the fine line of speaking positively and getting too excited, but I think things are about to explode in the very near future. Not only that, but I've got 2-3 other projects on the slate ready to go.

So with all that being said...I'mma go hoop. But I will leave you with these words from Kanyeezy

"Heaven'll watch, God calling from the hotlines
Why he keep givin' me hot lines.
I'm a star, how could I not shine?"

JL

It's SHOWTIME

2007-09-20T14:57:00.000-07:00

Ahh..is it already Sept 20th? It seems like it was just yesterday that I had 2 months to get ready for my 1 man show, and now, it's here in abou 3-4 hours. Where did the time go?

But if my morning is any indication of how the night's going to be, I will be a happy man come 7:45pm. I recorded a voice for "Family Guy" this morning. As I'm coming out of the booth, Seth Rogan (Knocked Up, 40 Year Old Virgin) is going in. We were introduced and then I left. Cut my programs and got those ready for tonight.

Then, you know there's always something trying to keep you in a bad mood. I had a long and hard fought battle with a hair bump, but I eventually won. So now, it's time to chill. Relax for a lil bit...maybe watch some judge judy and get mentally ready for tonight.

My boys Gary and Kevin just got in town as well. So tonight, it's time to thank God for my talents, put on a great show, and then sip and tip a lil bit.

Holla
JL

LAST MINUTE HEADACHES

2007-09-12T15:52:00.001-07:00

So my show is in a week. I'm finishing up last minute rehearsals, scripts, step practices etc. And I've been working my butt off, ya dig? So I bought a ticket to go back home to St. Louis the weekend after my show. Get away for a sec and breathe some good 'ol midwest fall air. Drive under the arch. See some old friends and relax. And in true Carol Lee fashion, my mother has already set up a concert/film viewing with a bunch of people I have never met before in my entire life. And I am absolutely irritated.

Why does this bother me so much? I'll tell you. Ever since I was a little kid, my mother has made me play for other people I don't know or care to know. And I have grown to dislike it with each passing performance. Even in college, I'd come home to see my mom. And the next thing I knew, she would take me to some random person's house and I'd be playing. Now, I love playing for my mom. I'd play for her for hours on end. I have no problem with that. I do have a problem when I'm practicing, and she slips out of the apartment and opens the front door, and then when I turn around...there's a crowd of 3 people I've never seen before hovering over me watching me play.

I don't know why I despise it so much. I just do. And I think I have a right to not like some things. And I think what makes it worse, is that I've told her from day 1 how much I hated it. And it doesn't seem to make a difference at ALL. I still get the same puppy dog eyes and guilt trip if I even hesitate to play. And to bring it back...I had planned on having a nice relaxing weekend in St. Louis, and now I've got some performance at a senior citizens home with a brand new piano and people I don't care to meet. I don't want to play in this new facility. I don't care about their piano. I don't care about any of that.

And I know my mom is excited. And I know she's excited to see me. But my mom is so worried about spreading my talents and showing me off to other people, that she forgets to just enjoy my time home.

okay, just wanted to vent a sec. Holla

JL

re: No Subject

2007-08-21T09:40:00.001-07:00

What it be like peoples out there in the real world?

So as you may or may not know, I've got a big show coming up Sept 20th. It's my first live performance here in LA and is much needed. Sometimes you gotta get on stage and do your thing to remember that you're actually good at something. lol So I'm pretty excited about it. I'm finishing the script, have a couple production meetings now, and looking to have a great show.

Also, on the heels of our '818' script, we just finished a comedy. It's funny too. Hence the word 'comedy'.

That's about it. Back to the 1 man show script. I'll hollllllllllllla

J Lizzle

What Will Yours Be?

2007-08-02T00:10:00.000-07:00

I'm just chillin at my place right now watching tv. I went to the gym and came home, took a shower, and plopped down on my couch. I just finished watching the Late Show with Dave Letterman and Matt Damon is on. To all my aspiring actors out there, in my opinion, there is almost no better class to take than watching other successful people. Really watch them and listen to them. Either in person, or on the red carpet, or in personal interviews like Inside The Actors Studio. I say this because you really get a chance to learn that, at one point, they were EXACTLY where you were. Stop and think about that for a sec. At one point, the most successful people that we idolize and try to shape our careers after, were at one point, nobody on the scale of 'fame' or 'successful'.

In the Matt Damon interview, he said something that caught my attention. When he did the 1st of the Bourne Identity/Supremacy/Ultimatum films, his career was at a low point. He had done some pretty big films, but he said 'there's an unwritten rule of 3 strikes and you're out. As far as the Box office goes". He said he was proud of the 2 films he did, but they didn't do very well in the box office so he was pretty nervous about the Bourne Identity. Not to mention, that before the film came out, the writer of the film fought NOT to have sole credit of the film. He didn't want to be the only one taking the hit if the film was horrible. So they're all, the director, actors, editors, trying to make this project the best it can be in the 11th hour. And after the weekend of the film's opening, Matt said that by that Monday he was already being offered films.

As an actor, it's quite inspiring to see someone who is pretty much on top of the game right now, say that he was nervous about a project. And this project that went on to thrust him into the upper echelon of the industry. And what that means to me is; you have absolutely no clue as to what is going to get you to that next level. None. Go look at the credits of some of your favorite actors on IMDB. See how they started. See what project took them to that next level. Look at someone like Chris Tucker.
He had a small bit in House Party 3, did some stand up here and there, and then did a film that put him on the map. Friday (1995). After Friday, did a few more films that were halfway decent, and then comes Rush Hour (1998). The next year, he signed a 45 Million Dollar deal, which included 20 million to star in Rush Hour 2. Now, ask yourself, do you honestly think that Chris Tucker, after doing Friday, thought he would go on to be a 20 million dollar per movie actor, just 3-4 years later? I'mma go ahead and say no.

Mark Wahlberg? Didn't grow up in the theater. Didn't start studying Shakespeare at the age of 5. He was locked up as a teenager and hit the weights. Then got into the music game and born was Marky Mark and the Funky Bunch. After a horrid Sophomore album, he decided to take a stab at acting. Had a small part in a film (which people were skeptical about anyway because he was this 'bad boy musician' and people didn't think he'd be able to make the transition). Then, just as people were beginning to think he really was a joke, he turned heads in "Basketball Diaries". Then "Fear". Wait...then 1 year later guess what. "Boogie Nights". And the rest, as they say, is history. So, do you think Boogie Nights made him a star? Or did Fear before that? Or was it Basketball Diaries? Or was it Calvin Klein? Or was it his music? Nobody knows. It just happens. But when it happens, you have to be prepared for it. And he has definitely taken his career to a much much higher and respected level.

And on the other side of the coin, look at someone like Don Cheadle. In my opinion, one of the top 3 actors in the game and always has been, but just recently is really getting his props. He's been in the game for years and always comes through with his performances. But before Hotel Rwanda and Talk To Me and the Ocean's trilogy, Don was Godilocks in the film Meteorman. Now, I've always been a fan of DC, but even after hits like Devil In A Blue Dress, Rosewood, The Family Man, Traffic, and Manic, he STILL wasn't getting his due props. So what I'm saying, is you just never know.

Eva Mendez. Was actually in the Will Smith "Miami" video. Studied as an actor in college and did some random films here and there until she landed the role of Denzel's girlfriend in "Training Day". After that: Hitch, Ghost Rider, and other projects in the works.

So take every project as a blessing. Every role as a gift. Every opportunity as just that...an opportunity. An opportunity to continue to further yourself as an artist and as a person. Because you never know what will be that thing, that got you to that other thing, that gets you there! I'll go ahead and write my story now.

J Lee. Born and raised in St. Louis, MO as a classical pianist. Studied some theater in college and then moved out to LA. Did some random student films and even did a an actor's reality show competition, which got him on TV for the 1st time. After that, he dibbled and dabbled in directing, producing, writing his own projects until surprisngly, he was HIRED to write a film. '818'. And being the writer, he wrote a role for himself. After that, he did a few other small films until (Future project still in the works) came his way. Then, the hit show "Hurry Up And Get Famous" got him the buzz he was looking for. And after that, you see what the man has done. Everything from acting, writing, producing, soundtracks, directing, and editing, J Lee has re-defined the word 'multi-talented'.

It's very rare that you're born as a household name. And with that being said, you have every opportunity that any and everybody else has to do what you want to do in life. I believe we shape our own world. However you envision yourself is how the world will view you. So continue to strive for excellence, see yourself where you know you should be. And when obstacles get in the way, which they undoubtedly will, step on it. Shake it off. And keep rising. Do you have your story ready?

Holla
JL

"The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams."
- Eleanor Roosevelt

The Delay...

2007-07-30T11:13:00.000-07:00

I wake up this morning and go about my usual morning routine. Go to the computer. Check and respond to e-mails. Make breakfast. Then write. And while I do my usual work routine, I'm usually waiting on something. Waiting on a call back. Waiting on an e-mail. Waiting on an audition. Something. And in that time, it's easy to get down on yourself.

But a funny thing happened. I was just about to send off an e-mail to someone pertaining to my career, and my sister called out of the blue. She says "What's up lil' bro. Who's bothering you?" I said "what? What do you mean?" She says "Somebody's been aggravating you or something. You've been in my thoughts a lot lately". My sister has this very unique ability to really be in tune with other people. Especially her family. So I asked her "Does the industry in general count? Cause I'm aggravated about that right about now". She goes on to tell me that while I'm waiting, remember that The delay does not equal defeat. It equals development.

That was the sermon that her pastor preached last sunday at church. She said that when we're waiting on something (the delay) we automatically assume that we're defeated. We say to ourselves "I've done what I'm supposed to do, I did this, that and that...and I'm still not where I thought I'd be". But in that time, we're just developing. We're preparing for that next step. Things may not happen exactly when WE want them to happen, but when they're SUPPOSED to happen.

And I was just about a second away from clicking 'send' on my e-mail. But I thought that was very interesting and inspiring. We're not defeated. We're developing.

Holla
J Lee

"J Lee in the house, ya'll seen flyers"

I HATE SPRINT

2007-07-27T10:52:00.000-07:00

I absolutely HATE sprint wireless service. I woke up today, early, refreshed...ready to get my day started but sprint had to go and s*** on it. I decided to do a follow up call concerning my plan which I recently changed, and let me tell you, if sprint was a person, I'd beat his ass. I was on the phone for over 2 and 1/2 hours, cleaning up the mess that another sprint employee made a week ago. So in total, over 4 hours of my life has been s*** away by Sprint and it's dumb ass employees.

I mean, flat out lies too. "Yes Mr. Lee, we can offer you a preferred rate and plan of blah blah blah". I say "Wow, that's great. Sounds wonderful. Excellent news!" Then when I call back a week later to make sure they didn't screw it up, another dummy tells me "No Mr. Lee, we don't offer that". And then I say, "well, another one of your dumb ass employees told me that you do." Which they reply only by saying "sorry, Mr. Lee." And then I say, "what the f*** am I gonna do with a sorry?" She says "Excuse me. I don't know what you mean". I say, "B****, what I'm saying is that your apology doesn't do s*** for me. I want what was offered". 2 and 1/2 hours later, I'm mad, my morning is shot, and I end up ON THE SAME DAMN PLAN THAT I HAD FROM THE BEGINNING!!!!

I'm telling you, I haven't been this mad in a loooong time. Pissin me off. Now I gotta try to salvage my Friday and the rest of my weekend. I'm 'bout to watch Judge Mathis.

Holla

JL
F*** Sprint. Yeah, I said it.

Staying Focused

2007-07-20T10:21:00.000-07:00

My mom used to tell me 'focus on your mission, not your position'. What this means is, focus on exactly what you're trying to do without getting distracted by what others are doing. Now that's probably one of the hardest things you could ask of an actor. We are in a field where you have nothing BUT time and opportunity to compare yourself to this person and to that person. In a career where every 100,000 actor you have, only 50 of them are considered 'stars', it's natural to want to be one of those stars.

My suggestion is to just stay dilligent. It may not feel like you're getting far, fast enough, but you'll get there. ( don't know if I'm writing this blog for my readers or myself lol)

Mother Teresa was once asked why people lose their spiritual passion. She replied simply, "Distractions".
Jesus said "No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God" (Luke 9:62) So keep working hard and eventually, it will pay off. Don't get bogged down with the results

Now, all I have to do is take my own advice. Easier said than done...

On another note, we had a photo shoot for the film I wrote '818'. Here's a photo with the partial cast. From left to right - Isaih Williams, Cory Hardrict, Michael B Jordan, Arlen Escarpeta, and J Lee.

Broke as a joke?

2007-07-13T19:58:00.000-07:00

Isn't this saying an oxymoron? Broke as a joke? What's funny about being broke? That's not funny at all actually. Now that I think about it, that makes me feel the opposite of how a joke is supposed to make me feel. I don't like that.

My account sucks right now. But that's okay. My turn's coming.

JL

"Name still buzzin' even when I'm doin' nothin,
but I'm never doin' nothin' 'cause I'm always gettin' money
That's simple jackass and if you don't get it, you're a dummy"
-Lil Weezy

Beautiful Weekend

2007-07-01T14:15:00.000-07:00

Ahhh....just had a beautiful weekend in Chicago. One of my close friends got married in Chicago. It was a huge traditional Indian wedding and I was honestly honored to be a part of it. There were over 750 people there, all just to wish my boy Badal and his wife Sonia blessings and well wishes.

It was also great to see so many people there to support one family. I've got plenty of feelings on this and how this relates to my Black people...but I'll get to that in another blog. I just got home from the airport and ya boy is tired. But as a people, they support each other, they love each other, and they are there for each other. It was a beuaitul thing.

Anyway...I'm about to take a quick nap and rest. Them Indians like to PARTY boy. lol

Badal and Sonia...congrats!! Thanks for letting me be a part of such a wonderful day for you two and I'll never forget it.

Peace, Love, and Nappiness.

Holla

JL

Slighty Bitter

2007-06-26T17:52:00.000-07:00

Today was a pretty good day, even though it was also bitter sweet. I met up with a friend for lunch on the Fox lot. Got to meet some cool people and some casting assistants and had a great lunch. Afterwards, I had a meeting with a pretty reputable manager. And that meeting went VERY well. For the first time, I was able to meet with someone who could potentially help with the multiple facets of my career.

So the day is just rolling along greatly and here comes the bitter sweet part. Today is the BET awards show. And I started watching a little at the crib, but I just had to turn it off. I just can't stand sitting at the crib and seeing an event that I feel I should be at live. Just kinda sucks, ya know?

Oh well. Next year, maybe I'll be up on stage receiving an award and I'll be able to say "just last year, I couldn't even watch the show because I felt like I needed to be there".

Yep. That's it. I'll let you know what happens with the manager. Looks like it might work out. Peaces

JL

Book Me!

2007-06-22T14:00:00.000-07:00

I'm getting restless. I need to book something, write something, shoot something, producedirectscorelightedit a mickey fickey project cause your boy is sitting at the crib watchin Judge Shows, ITT Tech commercials, and a 1993 episode of cops.

Sidenote... I see why they took this show off the air. It was basically 'Find a negroe and chase him down" for 30 minutes. Can you imagine how folks would react if cops was still on the air? If they had footage of shooting a young kid 70 times for pulling out a wallet or something like that.

anyway...I digress.

I'm about to go walk around the block...4 times.

JL

It's Me Snitches!

2007-06-21T10:57:00.000-07:00

The kid is back. Been a lil minute since my last post, so I have some updates and all that jazz.
I just checked one of my saved messages and I laughed. One of my good friends/business aquaintances left this on my message.
"You're a multi faceted, multi-talented, multi media mogul right now."

I told you in a previous blog, I'm standing at the plate ready to swing this bat. Not only that, but there's no doubt in my mind that I'll take this veteran pitcher yard on the first pitch. Fastball (acting), Curveball (writing), Sinker (music), 2 Seam (Producing)...I got him covered.

The past 2 weeks have been kinda crazy for me. My nephew came out for a few fews before he heads off to college. That's my boy right there, but I'm a little nervous. He's moving from St. Louis to South Carolina and to the world...he's a grown man. To me, he's my little nephew but I'm just praying that he makes the right decisions. He'll be straight though.

What else...Oh, I have a meeting with a potential manager today. All jokes aside, this is how I'm thinking of going into the meeting. I'll write it as a script so you know I ain't bulls*****g.

INT. MANAGER'S OFFICE - DAY

Sunlight beams through a window of a seemingly normal office building. At the front desk,
a receptionist filters calls through her ear piece like a seasoned veteran.

But her usual routine is shifted for her next visitor. The front door opens and a young man steps into the room. She doesn't know this man, but something about him makes her stop what she's doing to see to his needs.

Dressed casually, holding a computer and an arm load of papers, enters J Lee - 20's. He speaks first to the receptionist
and his light and inviting face makes it easy to respond.

J LEE
Hello.

Receptionist.
Hi. How can I help you.

J LEE
I'm here to see Jane Doe.

Receptionist.
No problem. Hang on one sec.

The receptionist quickly dials an extension. Someone answers on the other end.

Receptionist
Hello, a Mr. J Lee is here to see you. No problem
(to J Lee)
You can head on back. She's waiting for you in the main conference room.

J LEE
Thanks.

J Lee smiles and heads deeper into the office. He finds the main conference room and enters.

INT. MANAGER'S OFFICE - CONFERENCE ROOM - CONTINUOUS

JANE DOE - 30's, sits at the conference table dressed in a blue pants suit.

JANE DOE
J Lee. Nice to finally meet you.

They shake hands.

J Lee meticulously places the following things on the table: Three thick feature length scripts, a spec script, A DVD box which at the bottom reads "directed by j lee", A manilla folder with numerous 'upcoming projects', and 4 magazines. Denzel Washington, Jamie Foxx, and Nick Cannon are on the cover of the various magazines. The last magazine, however, has a blank cover.

J Lee sits back in a chair. After a beat, he speaks.

J LEE
I'd like to begin by quoting one of my favorite rappers of all time. DJ Quik.
(a beat)
Can you work with that?

FADE OUT.
THE END.

********************************************
Haha. And best screenplay goes to....J LEE. See you at the Oscars. Umm...what else? Griffin & Lee Entertainment is making some powerful moves. I'll keep you posted on that. Other than that...I'm ready. I'm just ready. I'll let you know how the meeting goes.

"I'm so hot I freeze
big balls and they jingle like a lotta keys
even deaf women say hi to me
she tell a blind chick and she say, 'I gotta see"

-Lil Weezy
Holla at your boy.

JL

We're up!!

2007-06-15T14:06:00.001-07:00

So my new project '818' is coming along quite nicely. We just launched our new site, which has production info and photos. Go to www.818themovie.com to check it out!

We met with the director last night and went over the first draft of the script. Surprisingly, there were just a few minor things and the director and producers are really diggin' the 1st draft.

So we'll clean that up, get a 2nd draft out and continue production on the film. I'm really excited because this will be our first script that goes into full production. Everybody on board with the project is great and I'm really looking forward to shooting. Right now, we're looking to shoot October 1st. And of course, since I'm an actor, ya boy wrote a part in the movie for himself. I'll be playing Officer Pike.

So anyway...go check out the website. Leave comments and be sure to keep your eyes out for 818 coming soon!

J Lee

"I'm a champion, where's the f****g Rocky theme.
Damn, rest in peace Apollo Creed
I'm a monster, everyday is Halloween"
-Lil Weezy
Da Drought 3

HBFF 2007

2007-06-04T21:22:00.000-07:00

So the Hollywood Black Film Festival kicks off tomorrw (June 5th) in Beverly Hills CA. I'm pretty excited to say the least. My film "Battle For The Crown" was chosen as one of the films to be screened.

It's a good feeling to know all of your hard work will pay off. I moved out to Los Angeles about almost 3 years ago now and have been on my trying to find my way to the top since I crossed that California state line. But one thing I must do is enjoy the journey. And this week, I will definitely do that. I will be able to go and support other established and up and coming directors/actors/writers and just to be in that mix is a blessing. And I never thought I'd be directing this soon in my career. But it just happened to work out that way.

So if you see me during the week, don't be afraid to say what's up. I'm looking forward to a good week of films, films, and more films.

Holla at your boy.

JL

Director/writer/actor/musician/funny guy/nice guy/hooper/typer/dude who hates to lose arguments/'O'Shamus McPherson/leader/horrible follower/so so softball player/jack of all trades/chess player/dude who can't do a back flip/and that's about it....

"Monday I'm sippin and tippin, Tuesday I'm sippin and tippin, Wednesday I'm sippin and tippin,
Thursday I'm sippin and tippin, Friday I'm sippin and tippin, Saturday, after the show...I'm sippin and tippin'
-Brandon Williams
"Battle For The Crown

818!!

2007-05-21T15:58:00.000-07:00

So the first draft of the movie is finished! We turned our first draft in to the producer last night. I must say, I'm pretty excited about it. My writing partner and I started writing the project exactly 2 months ago. Oh yeah...and it's called "818" (which is the San Fernando Valley for all you non-Californians) The thing I'm looking forward to is seeing "WRITTEN BY J LEE & TOM WELCH" across the bottom of the poster! Close your eyes and visualize that, home slices.

The script is a gritty LAPD cop drama set on the 4th of July! Think Crash (multiple story lines, characters connected in various ways) meets Black Hawk Down (a simple routine day goes wrong, turning into the longest evening in 2 cops' lives)

Here's some concept art thus far. In the near future, you'll be able to check out 818thmovie.com for more info.

Okay...holla at your boy! More on 818 soon!!!!

J Lee
"Party like a rock...
Party like a rock star
t-t-t-totally dude!"
-Shop Boyz

Hollywood Black Film Festival

2007-05-19T22:15:00.000-07:00

"Battle For The Crown" will be playing in the 2007 Hollywood Black Film Festival. I'm very excitded as I have heard great things about this festival.

It screens June 7th, at 2:00pm at the Fine Arts Theater. 8556 Wilshire Blvd, in Beverly Hills. You can get tickets at the theater or purchase them through http://www.brownpapertickets.com/producer/4242

Hope to see you there!

J Lee

J Lee on Fox

2007-05-16T11:14:00.000-07:00

So this Sunday, I'll be on the season finale episode of "American Dad" on Fox. My character is O'Shamus McPherson and I'm pretty excited!

Just in case you didn't know, he's a black pimp leprechaun.

So be sure to check out American Dad this Sunday night 9:30/8:30c.

Also, the Hollywood Black Film Festival is coming up! My film "Battle For The Crown" screens June 7th, at 2:10pm at the Fine Arts Theater. Hopefully everyone can make it out to support.

Address is 8556 Wilshire Blvd, in Beverly Hills! See you at the festival!

J Lee

It's Titled!

2007-05-08T10:58:00.000-07:00

So I think we finally came up with a title for the screenplay. If you've been reading, you know that I was hired to write a feature length film for an independent producer. I've been writing for almost 2 months now and my writing partner and I are almost finished with a pretty solid first draft. Don't think we'll have to go back and make TOO many drastic changes and that's always a good thing. If the producer likes it, I love it. (I'll let you know the title once it's 100% locked and loaded)

This summer is shaping up to be a pretty busy one for me. Of course I wrote myself into the film. That'd be against the J Lee law to write a movie and not have a lil cameo. So if (when) all works well, we'll be shooting that later this year. Also met with another director yesterday and read for a lead part in an indepenent film. My production company (Griffin & Lee Entertainment) is in talks to co-produce the film.

And, I'm shooting a short film this weekend called "Back yard battle robots". I play the "Molten Rock" guy. (Think The Thing from Fantastic Four). It's a full suit. Should be interesting.

Alright, back to writing. Just needed to give a quick update to all my peeps.

OH..and check out my new trailer for "Battle For The Crown". It will be playing at the Hollywood Black Film Festival June 7th, at 2pm at the Fine Arts Theater. 8556 Wilshire Blvd, in Beverly Hills. Get your tickets and support the film. go to www.hbff.org for more info.

PEACE, LOVE, and NAPPINESS

JL

I Miss College

2007-04-30T11:01:00.000-07:00

As much as I like being an adult and out here in Los Angeles pursing my dreams full time, I gotta admit, I miss college life. I was a piano performance major going into school. While there, the rigorous practice schedule and rehearsals and recitals and theory and sight reading and music history classes were strenuous, I miss it. In the midst of all that craziness, I had structure. I had to pratice. I had one of the best piano professors I've ever had. Studied under world recognized musicians, and performed in beautiful recital halls.

Funny story: there is a huge music dept at Indiana University. Some of the best students from across the world study there. I used to get sooo busy, that I didn't have time to practice during the day. But what I'd do, is wait until 11:55pm and go to the main recital hall. The building closed at Midnight, but if I could get in before the doors locked, I was good to go. By that time, they had already cleaned out the halls and were on to other rooms. I'd sneak in, put the spotlight on the 9 foot Steinway, and practice until 2-3am. Just me. No distractions. No audience. Just me on stage with the spotlight on.

I miss those days. I'm looking for a new teacher as we speak. I've been without a piano teacher for toooo long now. Can't let that happen. So I contacted a few teachers at USC to see if they'll take me on privately.
I'm also getting ready for my 1 man show which is supposed to be this summer. Piano & Performing = J Lee

Okay...done practicing, and now it's off to the gym! Holla

"Tonight I might, just boost my feature price
'cause to each his own and the lights is bright
and I'm feelin' like Mike at a Tyson fight"
-Lil Weezy

Multi

2007-04-26T20:55:00.000-07:00

I was sitting here on the computer, drinking a Newcastle and reflecting on my day and I smiled. You know what I did today? I woke up. I continued writing on a screenplay I was hired to write, finished that and decided to go to the gym. Hit the weights real hard (I'm getting ready for a role that shoots this summer so I gotta get my buff on). Finished that. Came home, took a shower. Went to my old gig Family Guy to have lunch with some friends. Came home. Practiced piano for a quick sec (Beethoven. Chopin. Scott Joplin.) Watched some basketball and then went BACK to the gym to hoop. Hooped boys OUT on the court. Pretty much un-guardable from the top of the key. If you back off, I'll hit the 3. If you get on me, I'll drive past you. If you double me, I'll drop a dime. Flawless basketball. Did a light 2nd workout and left. Went to the store, bought me some Newcastle and some pizza (a Man's dinner!) and checked e-mail and then was inspired to write this. I write all this to say, if anybody ever tells me I'm not talented enough, I'll laugh in their face. Hard. I mean that contagious laugh that makes everybody around you laugh even if they don't know what they're laughing about. And after I pick myself up off the floor I'll say "now THAT was a good one." Pat that person on the back and walk off.

That's all.

I like me sometimes. Everybody should like themselves I think. If you don't have confidence in yourself, who will?

"I'm black, handsome, I sing, plus I'm rich...I'm a flirt"
-R Kelly

J Lee

FBDO

2007-04-23T15:20:00.000-07:00

I'm sitting here watching one of the greatest film's of the 80's. Actually, it's a film that has stood the test of time and is classic cinema to be honest. And while I'm watching it, I can't help but wish that films were like this today. The film I am talking about is none other than...Ferris Buehler's Day Off.

Well written. Great shots. Wonderful 80's music soundtrack that keeps the film just movin' right along. Nowadays, you gotta have all this CGI, and complex story lines etc etc. This was a simple idea and well executed. Sometimes less is more.

Don't know why I just went off on that tangent...but things don't have to be so complicated. When they get that way, take a step back and simplify. And for all you faithful readers...did you ever make your list? If so, pull it out and see how far you've gotten on it thus far. It's only April of '07. Still got a lot of months to go, ya dig.

But watch Ferris Buehler's Day Off when you get a chance. Just brilliant. Next up on the 80's movie list is The Karate Kid and Glory.
Holla at your boy
J Lee

Banana in a tailpipe

2007-04-14T21:53:00.000-07:00

They got us all fooled. Most of us at least. And we, as Black people, fall for it damn near everytime. I know everybody has heard all about this Don Imus thing, but we should all take a moment and learn something. Here is the first interview where someone spoke the truth about the situation and our black 'leaders' who are handling it. Watch.

Black folks, get a f*****n back bone. You fall for this stuff all the time. Don Imus said something that was crass, outrageous, rude, and probably a little comical to some folks, and black folks fell out. We're so quick to blame our problems as a race on 'the man' but never do we stop to look at what we do that perpetuates the problem. Now, I'm not saying that Don Imus was right. He should have been fired. I think a lot of people think racism is dead and gone and are just far too comfortable. But Jason Whitlock hit this on the head. We're sick and tired of our Black leaders leading us in the wrong direction. We don't need to be hindered. We don't need to be babied. Everybody got mad at Bill Cosboy in 2004 because he spoke the truth. Know what he said?

- "And you can't blame other things. You got to -- you got to straighten up your house. Straighten up your apartment. Straighten up your child."

-"People marched and were hit in the face with rocks to get an education, and now we've got these knuckleheads walking around. ... The lower economic people are not holding up their end in this deal. These people are not parenting," he said, addressing an audience of Washington VIPs.

-"Brown versus the Board of Education is no longer the white person's problem. We have got to take the neighborhood back. ... They are standing on the corner and they can't speak English."

And people were OUTRAGED. Called him a race traitor. Called him all kinds of names. But you know what, sign me up for that too, because he spoke nothing but the truth. It's a new day and age people. It's time to start being responsible for your own actions. Stop looking to blame other people for your own problems. Work. Take care of your kids. Stay out of the system. And when you DO get in the system, stop blaming other people for your problems. I grew up in a single parent household, not a lot of money, but my mother refused to make me a product of society. There were no excuses. No such thing as can't. Too many of our young black youth give up before they even try. And that's another problem. Us as a people won't even fight for what we believe. We jump on this Al Sharpton bullshit bandwagon demanding justice, but won't fight for something meaningful. Don Imus isn't the first one who said 'ho'. Three 6 Mafia just won a damn Oscar for using the same language. Project Pat had a hit song called "Chicken Heads".

What I'm saying is, don't fall for the bait. The bait of 'justice justice justice" because when you do, it distracts us from the real problem. Us. Example and I'mma leave this alone. When I was in high school as the one of 3 blacks in my entire school, I used to get in trouble all the time. Would talk in class. Would act up. But I had good grades, was a musican and a scholar athlete, a minority, and felt indisposable. One day, I was talking my ASS off in class while my teacher was turned around. He didn't SEE me talking, but everybody knew it was me. He turned around and called me out. "J Lee...stop talking or I'll kick you out". And instead of me saying 'ok' or realizing that I WAS talking and maybe I should just shut up...I say "you didn't see me talking". I felt disrespected because he would just call out the black boy and I felt that was racist and unjust. So I felt like I had to be heard. I was arguing the situation and not the point when in actuallity, I should have shut the hell up and took notes like the rest of the class. Al Sharpton and Jesse Jackson want you to argue the situation and not the point. Don't fall for it. Uplift our community and our people through positive messages and positive thought. Don't fall for the political b.s.

Moving and Shaking

2007-03-18T19:44:00.000-07:00

So today, I get back from a crazy weekend in Las Vegas. I basically left the club we were at and went straight to the airport because my flight was so early.

I get back to LA and immediately get some sleep because a brotha was tired. BUT, you know I have to drop knowledge in my blogs, I almost missed a great opportunity messing around with Vegas. I slept through an important phone call but I woke up just in time to check the message. Threw on some clothes and went to a NBA Entertainment league game. I met with a guy who is interested in hiring me as a writer for a film he's producing. I'll meet with him tomorrow.

Other than that..I'm tired. But I'm too broke to be tired.

Holla
J Lee

Restlessssssss

2007-03-13T17:34:00.000-07:00

Mannnnnnnn I haven't done a damn thing all day. And it's really pissing me off.

If you've been reading my blogs, you know that I recently left my job at Family Guy to put all my focus into progressing my career. But now that I'm not working everyday I gotta get my hustle on and make things happen for myself. But some days just move slowly. And today was one of those days.

I made a call to a management company. I talked to my current manager about an update to the project that I already claimed (see below)

I'm about to go hoop a lil bit. Then I'm going to work out. Then I'm going to go to one of my friend's show. And then I'm going to bed.

Holla

J Leee

Claims

2007-03-12T12:23:00.001-07:00

Okay. You know how I'm always talking about claiming this and positive thinking on that. Well I'm about to put it to the test. There is a film in pre-production right now that I would be absolutely perfect for. Not only that, it's directed by one of my favorite directors and could (will) be the spark that I need. Only problem is, I don't have an audition set up. I don't even know the casting director. BUT, I do know that I want this role and I want this project. So...I'm claiming it.

I'm saying right now, that I will be in this project. It shoots later this month and will be released in '08. Check back to soon to see the progress. I'm hoping that in a few weeks, I'll post a blog entitled "Booked"

Sigh.

"Hurry up and wait"
-Los Angeles

Back to LA and RELOADED

2007-03-05T17:39:00.000-08:00

The title is called back and reloaded. Which is what I am. I'm back, the tank is full, the body is washed, and I see the next victory in the horizon!

This past weekend I traveled to Indiana University to have the premiere screening of my film "Battle For The Crown". I had a blast to say the least. They played it in the campus movie theater and it was packed. Roughly 400 people came and watched the film. Of course I was running up and down and back and forth making sure everything went smoothly from audio to lighting tweaks. But once the movie started I was able to relax a little. I stood in the back. I wonder if that's how I'm going to be with all of my films. Sitting or standing in the back. I think so. It just feels a little better. I mean, as a director and especially as an editor, you've seen it hundreds of times and anything that can give you a fresh perspective helps. For me, it's standing in the back. Hmm Anyway, there was a moment when I looked out over all of the people and thought to myself, wow...they are here to see my movie. I had to take it in.

Hollywood is very tricky. It will trick you into not being appreciative of things. Will I win an Oscar for BFC? No. Will I travel the world stepping? No. BUT...I still did something that a lot of people have and will never get to do. And for that, I am appreciative.

Anyway...the other reason my trip was so great was because I got to hang with some of the coolest cats around. Of course I'm talking about my fraternity brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha. My chapter, Gamma Eta, just crossed 11 new guys into the organization and I got to meet and hang with all of them. They call themselves R.E.L.O.A.D.E.D. and they have done just that with the chapter. They have such a great energy that is simply contagious. And it made me smile all weeeknd because I remember when I was just like that! And not once did I think about this crazy industry. Not once did I think about a call back or making a phone call or an audition. I just enjoyed life for 3 full days. I ate, I laughed, I shared stories, and I lived. For 3 full days. Oh, and I won the MVP in the annual 3 on 3 basketball tournament leading my team to an undefeated tournament run, Frosty's still got a 'J'.

But seriously, think about that. When was the last time you just enjoyed what you were doing? In the midst of trying to scrap your way up this wobbly and unstable ladder, you've got to find time to enjoy the rung you're on. It's easier said than done but if you're getting to a point of frustration or complacency, take a trip to a place you know. A place where there is unconditional love, support, and happiness... and go there and let your mind take a vacation. Family, Friends, love, and meaningful relationships are what matter most in this world. All of this extra shit is just an easy alternative that won't last. And for someone like me who has to keep grounded and positive people around me, I needed a vacation. We're too blessed to be stressed people.

I'll be doing another screening in Arizona for the ABFF on my brithday (March 23rd). Now if you read my blogs regularly, you know that I'm a hustler. You know I get out there and get it. But sometimes your fuel gets a little low and you gotta Reload and get back out there, ya dig? And if I look at all the things God has done for me, just in the last 11 months, I really have nothing to worry about. Do I?

"Trap all day, play all night. This is the life of a, the life of a...
Go Getter!"
-R Kelly and Young Jeezy

"I told her to go down to MMM. Music, Movies and More"
-Brandon Johnson #2 of R.E.L.O.A.D.E.D. 2007 FNL

"I'm going to report you to facebook for false advertisement"
-Ryan Moore # 10 of R.E.L.O.A.D.E.D. 2007 FNL

THE FAMILY

2007-02-12T12:36:00.000-08:00

This is just a lil thank you to all of the friends I've made working at Family Guy over the past 2 years. I'm going to miss you sons of bitches but don't worry, I'll see you at the top! If I forgot anybody, please blame my head and not my heart. So, here we go...

SETH MACFARLANE: I very rarely throw this term out because I think it is waaaay too overused, but this man is a pure genius. Every aspect of why Family Guy is successful, is because of this man. He probably doesn't know it, but I've learned so much just by watching him. And much more than that, I consider him a good friend.

CHRIS: If I were white, I'd probably want to be him. A very successful and down-to-earth guy that took time to take me under his wing and show me the ropes. Be on the lookout for the J Lee 1 man show coming to you later this year courtesy of Chris and ...

KIRKER: Believes that I could be one of the biggest names in the land. Kirker is a cool cat that will tell you how it is. This J Lee show might just turn into a lil sumn sumn afterall. I have also been informed that I need to get famous so I can help put his kid(s) through college.

ALEC: Sulk Dog! Man, this guy right here was one of my best friends from the get-go. Coined the term 'J Lee casual" and makes me laugh about something new every day. Performs the best "Mama Said Knock You Out" in the country. Alec has gone to bat for me and believes in me. And you need good friends and support to make it out here. Also, a new inductee to the Movado club, class of '06.

DAVID: At first glance, David seems very tough and unapproachable, which may be true. But once you get past the guard dogs, he's another genuinely nice guy. And he'll look out for you. In an industry that is filled with bullshit and fake people, David is loyal. And if he can help you, he will. Although he never did open the door for Thanksgiving dinner, he's still my pal. Moving on...

MIKE: Henbro! Read my first screenplay and I can say that he's one of the main reasons I view myself as a writer. I guess I thought he'd say it was the worst thing ever, but when he said that it was actually not that bad, it made me believe in myself. Even offered me his apartment when I was sleeping in my car. And, to top it off, he even kicked me in the nuts. (www.kickedinthenuts.com)

THE SOPHOMORE CLASS. Mike D/Anthony/Biggins/Travis/Katie/Woody and the FRESHMAN Spencer: These are the people that got hired around the same time I did so we've definitely been on the rollercoaster ride together. Mike is the only person I know that can piss everybody off in the office, but still be one of the most liked people around. Funny, smart mouthed, and sometimes rude, Mike has definitely made my days at work much more enjoyable. Anthony AKA Izzy Bizzy, AKA Sad Boy is another one of my potnas. Never wears jeans. Don't trust a man who never wears jeans...except Anthony. Biggins, 2 G's, 1/2 of the Two Man Crew, 1/3 of the New Rat Pack...man we definitely have had some good times and some good stories. He's also my consultant. Tre Bowe, AKA The Next Robin Williams (watch out for this guy!) Katie AKA Krentzshaw, was the first one to graduate and move on. I think I'm the second so I thank her for taking that step and letting the rest of us know that there is life after F Geezy. Woody AKA Hollywood, quiet but funny as hell. Co-creator of the funniest show you'll probably never see: The Balls and Boner Show. Spencer Porter, aka Sporter, is also, hands down, no questions asked, my dog.

5700 LADIES: Shannon, Brandi, Karin, Kara, Kim, Brandee, Caitlan and Amanda, Liddane, Suzy, Laura, Sharon, Annie, Diana, Frostie, Debbie, and Linda AKA La La. Without these women I would have never : Been hired, done a voice over for the show, made a movie, had my headshot up on the wall of fame, used the word 'DIVA', Learned how to listen, picked up a tabloid magazine, eaten Wokano, and uttered the word fabulous.

THE WRITING STAFF: Tommy D, Patrick, Hentemann, Cherry, Alex, Steve, Danny, Wellesley, Dave, Veen Dog, Scully, and Rich. I don't know if I've ever been around a group of people that made fun of any and everything imaginable. From race to looks to pop culture to a bunch of songs written by artists that I have never heard, they are on top of it all. And you've got to be on point because if they catch you slipping, you will definitely be at the butt end of a whole lotta jokes. But these guys are the machine behind Family Guy. Without them, well the show would probably still go on, (insert the sophomore class) but they're still the ish. Tom Devanny secretly wants to marry a black woman.

THE HOMIES: TTC, Coach Andrew (good luck on your marriage sir) Dom, Brian, Purdam, The Owl, Artie, Jason, Peter, Brent, Rob Rob, Tom D, Chewbacapitts, Brad - Default, Obiron, Mick, Mike, Zac, J Stew, Mark, Vaux, Ed, Burrell, Tauke to me, Mike E. Eric Brown, Chili, Luckett, P Shin, James, Wyll, Sean
Once Halo started, I stopped seeing sunlight. Just looking back at this list, I can say that I made a lot of friends here at FG. And these are people that I would love to keep in touch with even after FG.

MIKE, MATT, AND AMERICAN DAD: O'Shamus McPherson is born and you better bring him back! But honestly, Mike Barker was black in another lifetime and he's definitely looked out for me. Matt always calls my bet no matter what I have because he thinks I never have a good hand. Let me know when we're playing poker. Now that I'm not working anymore, I'd love to suppliment my income with residuals and all in bets called by Weitzman, Natch, and McKenna when I have the nuts. Holla at your boy.

So, it's time to say goodbye to all my Negroe friends. And this wouldn't be a blog if I didn't leave you with some words of wisdom from the most scholarly of the scholarly. Stay in touch and stay black!

"I gotta testify, come up in the spot lookin' extra fly.
'Till the day I die, I'mma touch the sky"
-Kanye West

"Ain't nobody f****n with me man,
He-man, ski mask
Spendin next week's cash, he's fast.

And I don't even need a G pass, I'm past that.
I'm passin' 'em out now. And you can't have that"
-Lil Weezy

"Paparazzi spots me in the lobby of my high rise
I hide, behind my shades , 'cause the fame is blinding my eyes"
-Jay Z

"All that we are is the thought of what we have become"
-unknown

Stupidity requires laughter

2007-02-08T10:03:00.000-08:00

In an industry that requires daily rejection you must find a way to combat it. The first thing one wants to do when they're rejected is self-reflect. We immediately come down on ourselves. We immediately feel that we failed or that we're not good enough. But once you realize that it really has nothing to do with you, you find a way to get through it.

Coming to LA is a scary enough, but then if you look at the numbers...it's even crazier. There are way more actors/writers/musicians/directors/models than there are gigs. But, by the day, people flock to LA and move away from LA with their tails between their legs in defeat. There is no win or lose. There just is. I don't compare myself to anybody else because I'm like nobody else. There is no other J Lee. This industry does not dictate if I will or will not succeed. I do. In an industry filled with followers, I will lead. Think about it...nobody wants to take a 'chance' on somebody they've never heard of. But once you do something... ANYTHING... people will jump on the band wagon like they believed in you from day 1. Now you can either wait till your bandwagon starts getting full to believe that you're talented enough. Or you can believe it NOW, and just know that people are gonna jump on the sack when your ship comes in. Either way, what's going to happen is going to happen.

I prolly lost a few of you there, but oh well. It's my blog.

"Step yo game up"
-Battle For The Crown

"How can I fuck up your self esteem? It's called SELF esteem"
-Kat Williams

2 Week Notice

2007-02-01T14:54:00.000-08:00

So today, I told my job that I will be putting in my 2 weeks notice. This is a very scary position for me since I'm leaving a great job, a paycheck, and many benefits that travel beyond any normal gig. Family Guy has been such a good opportunitty for me. I got the job not soon after I moved to Los Angeles and I couldn't have asked for a better start. They were flexible with auditions...they even gave me a leave of absence just to go off and shoot my film. But in the long run, I gotta keep my goals in mind. And if I don't keep working towards my goals, I'll never get to them.

I can honestly say that me working at Family Guy will be on of the most influential things to happen in my entertainment career. When I'm on the podium giving my Oscar Thank You speech, FG and Seth MacFarlane will be at the top of the list.

Ahh..well I'm out. I'm getting all sad and ish. I'll write more in 2 weeks with a special shot out to all of my friends and co-workers.

"If you don't decide where yoyu're going, you will end up where you're headed"
-J Lee

Get the funk out!

2007-01-30T17:19:00.001-08:00

Today started off pretty rocky. I was tired, didn't want to get out of bed, and to make matters worse; I decided to check my checking account balance and, needless to say, it was lower than a mofo. So I take a shower, leave my house, and head to the gig. On the way to work, I was still reeling about my money situation but I called my mom for our morning phone conversation and it put me in a better mood. My moms knows me well enough to hear it in my voice, so she cheered me up a little.

But I made a point to get out of my funk and carry on with my day. Just as I was about to do that, my producer informs me that I had to work through lunch. I ordered bbq chicken and they didn't even give me any sauce.

BUT, I finally broke out of it and got some great things accomplished with my day. I dropped of my new headshot with LA casting, and got a call from another agency that wants to meet. So all in all, I made a good day out of a bad one.

Oh yeah, that reminds me...I have to write a blog about the meeting I had this past weekend with an actor about Medusa. It's about to po po pop off!!

And if this meeting doesn't go well, I'mma - "Do the Heisman on that hoe"

J Lee

2007-01-25T17:16:00.000-08:00

So, my film was just accepted into its first film festival. I got the e-mail today. Even better, the festival is during my birthday weekend so, needless to say, that boy J Lee is very happy. Hard work does pay off. And Lord knows I busted my butt on this project. I'm still making updates and changes ever so often just to make it better.

Going into this project, I never thought (yes I did) that this film would do anything for me. But I'll be able to go and network and, most important, see my film up on the big screen!! I don't know what I'm going to do when I see it up there for the first time. Ahh...

anyway...I'm happy. That's it. The year of the J. Did you make your list yet? And if you don't know what the whole list thing is about, read my blog " Let's Get It"

"And everybody trying to get to the top, and that's all good too, but right now I'm on the ladder.
-Jadakiss

J Lee

Fearless

2007-01-10T14:57:00.000-08:00

What's up everybody? I'm dealing with a very large step in my career but there is this one small thing that is trying to hold me back. Fear. That fear is the fear of not making it. Or not being good enough. Or making the wrong decision. But this fear only comes around when I let his two brothers in the door. Doubt and disbelief. See, I've talked about these three not being welcome in an old blog and it still holds true. And the dangerous thing about these three, is that when you let one in the house, the other two just come right on in. And once they're in...it's hard to get the bastards out.

See, a good way to keep them out is to have a firm sense of who and what you are. I mean to the point where there is nothing anyone can say or do that will change what you feel about yourself. Now, know there are no limits but those that you put upon yourself, but be realistic! =) Once you get that down, once you've found that answer to who you are...you listen to yourself when you're in self-doubt. And your inner self will tell you the truth. But if your inner self is quiet. If your inner self is a non-believer...the only other people you have to listen to are the 3 sons of bitches sitting across from the dinner table telling you that you can't make it. Fear, Doubt, and Disbelief.

We are all made in God's image. And God is in and all around us. And if that is true, if we are made in God's image, then we have Godlike potential. And there's nothing you can tell God that A) He doesn't know and B) that will make him doubt himself. lol

But you gotta believe. You can't halfway believe it. It's gotta be 100% belief that you are good enough, smart enough, ....and damnit! People like you.

-Closer to my dreams.
Goapelle

J Lee

Let's Get It!!

2007-01-02T17:32:00.000-08:00

See...people always start the year off saying the same thing. "This is gonna be my year. This year, I'm gonna (insert goal/dream/wish)'. But what people forget is that, you've got to take into account what you've already done. Don't discard '06 yet. I put in some hard work last year. As my old piano teacher would say, I put in the 'nitty gritty'. The hard work that you get tired of and you dread doing. But see, that nitty gritty, that grind, that...HUSTLE, if you will, is gonna pay off. So I'm going to reap the benefits in '07 and have a ridiculously productive and positive year. But it's from my hard work in '06. You see?

Do yourself a favor. 1st, make a list of all of the things that you got accomplished last year. Small and major things alike. Did you get a new car? A new job? A new house? Did you meet a new friend? A new girl/boyfriend? Did you move? Did you finish something that you thought was impossible? Did you travel somewhere new? Think of all the things you did in '06 and write it down on a piece of paper.

Then make another list and at the top put '07. And write this list as if it were Jan 1st, 2008 and you were looking back on 2007 and remembering all that you did. Don't be shy or bashful either. You can put whatever you want on that list. So make your list for 2007 as if it has already happened. Claim what you want in this year. And trust me, it will be yours.

I've already got my list finished. And lemme tell you now, I'm pretty booked up. I know how I want this year to go. And I'm willing to work for it. And I've got God on my side and that means that there is nothing you can tell me that will convince me otherwise. If you try, you will fail. In '07, I'm not dealing with a 'can't do' attitude. Nope. It's time to get it cracking everybody. Stop reading and make your list. What do you want? Get it.

"Whether you think you can or cannot, you are right"
-Henry Ford.

The J

SNICKERS

2006-12-20T15:29:00.000-08:00

If you haven't seen the Snicker's commercial I did, it's up on youtube. Check it out!

It's A Thin Line

2006-12-12T10:19:00.000-08:00

Boy, that song is true. It's a thin line, between love and hate. Very thin. There's something in my life right now, that I need and I LOVE, but can't stand that muthaf****a. Boy. Everyday, I wake up and I love it and hate it.

That is all I will put right now, because if I type more, I will go off. People playin with my patience. Grrr

"And down here you are gonna need a choppa, and I'mma need a lawyer, and you gone need a doctor"

lil weezy

Most Famous Receptionist

2006-12-01T11:23:00.000-08:00

Okay, 1st off, God is great. Yep. Great. I work as a receptionist. But I might be the most famous receptionist in the city. I don't make a lot of money, but the benefits of my job are well worth it. I work for the show Family Guy. I meet actors and actresses and musicians daily. And when I meet them, I don't meet them as a fan. I meet them as an equal.

'you are seen as you see yourself'

And I'm excited because I got my dad Lakers tickets for tomorrow. My publicist hooked it up. How did I get a publicist you say? What have I been in? Nothing. But I've got talent. And I strive to have people see me the way I see myself. Ya'll better get on board now. I'm tellin you, the J Lee train is about to speed up. There are still seats left though.

ok, that's it. I'm broke but happy, talented, and thankful for past and future blessings. HOLLA

J Lee

2006-11-13T11:57:00.000-08:00

How To:

2006-11-13T11:36:00.000-08:00

This is a 'how to' blog. I'll probably do a new 'how to' blog every week or so just so I can teach others how to do some things that I know how to do. We'll first start with

HOW TO: AVOID POINTLESS ARGUMENTS WITH YOUR GIRLFRIEND
1) NEVER SAY WHAT YOU'RE THINKING. While you are listening to her tell you her feelings and why she feels a certain way, and why you're wrong...take a moment. Think of what you are going to say. Because no matter what comes out of your mouth, it will be written in the books and taken as law. You will not be able to take your statements back. Choose your words carefully.

2) FIGURE OUT WHAT THE HELL YOU'RE ARGUING ABOUT IN THE 1ST PLACE. A lot of times, women argue the most recent subject or thing that you just said, not the point. So the more you speak without thinking of how you're going to place your words (see #1) the more you move further and further from the point at hand. Example.

Her : Why don't you ever buy me flowers?
You : Aww baby, I don't need flowers to tell you I love you.
Her: Speaking of, when is the last time you told me I loved you.
You: The other day, right before I went to play basketball with the fellas.
Her: Why do you always have to hang out with your friends playing stupid basketball. Can't we just spend a weekend together? Are your friends more important that me? ETC ETC ETC

You get my drift. Don't get caught in the trap. Because before you know it, you'll have said 10 different 'incorrect' things that will set her off on other reasons why she wants to argue.

3) FIND A RESOLUTION. There's nothing worse than having a drag down, name calling, heated argument and not coming up with a resolution. Because if you do that, you've basically wasted minutes of your life on a subject that neither of you see eye to eye on. Doesn't matter what the resolution is. Just come to one. "Hey, I've realized that when you talk to me on Wednesdays, we have bad days. So maybe on Wednesdays, we should just avoid each other". or "Hey, you're crazy." Whatever the resolution is, come to one. Because if you argue about something once, there's really no need to argue about it again is there? But this is only IF, you come to a resolution.

4) YOU DON'T MATTER. Nothing you say or do, matters. Stop bringing up past times when you did something great that she loved and disproves her current point. Doesn't matter. Doesn't matter if she's arguing about the fact that you never cook, but she happened to forget that you just cooked last night and she's eating the leftovers in between yelling at you. Doesn't matter. You're wrong. You're a jerk. And you don't matter. Stop being honest and say what she wants to hear. Women always talk about how they want their men to be honest and express their feelings. If you believe that you're an idiot. That's a flat out lie. No woman wants to hear "Nah, tonight I'd rather do something with my friends instead of with you". Trust me. She says "just be honest with me and tell me how you really feel". What she really means is "if you decide to do anything besides what I want to do, you hate me. You're selfish, and she should be with somebody that appreciates and adores her 28/9 and not be with your dusty ass" Well you say to me, "J...that's a lie. I shouldn't lie to my girl". I say to you avoid the argument at all cost, enjoy the rest of your day, and live to argue on another one.

That is all for today. Hope you learned something. Have a good day.

J Lee

Stale

2006-11-11T15:55:00.001-08:00

Okay, so it's Saturday. I'm sitting around my house doing a bunch of nothing because that's what I like to do with my weekend. Relax. I spend a lot of the week hustlin and workin, but now it's my time to chill....ANYWAY, I'm watching TV and this new show comes on. Before I tell you what it's called, let me tell you that it bothers me. Why does it bother me? I'll tell you.

Okay, I'm not a person who gets up on soap boxes and tells people what to do or how to act, but eventually you have to sit back and take a look at what you do. First of all, the show is called "Hip Hop Hold 'Em" which sounds like a good idea. It brings celebrities from the hip hop world together to play a lil poker. The reason the show pisses me off, is because it is soooo stereotypically 'black' I can't begin to enjoy it. Most of the people they bring on the show don't even know how to play which causes for some pretty bad poker. They've got two show hosts who are completely opposite. (A token white guy who knows how to play cards but he can't act too white, so he tries to act a lil hip which makes him look even more dumb, and a token random black guy who is hip but doesn't know a damn thing about poker, which ends up being a funny 2 man team because they both make each other look stupid without knowing it)... the post production looks like it was editied in imovie (random porno like star wipes, horrible music, and a blah poker room), they've got a bunch of half naked women walking around for no reason (who's idea was this? They're not even doing anything. I could see if they were serving drinks, or dealing cards, or something..but nope. Because that's what black people do. Right? They get half naked and listen to hip hop and count money. Right? That's what we all do.)

Now I'm mad because, I'm assuming they are trying to reach a particular audience with this show. My guess is 18-30 year old African Americans. If this is the audience that they are attracting, as an audience member, you've got to feel pretty dumb that this is all you get. This is what they think 'you all' want to see. A group of 'suits' sat around before they shot the first episode and said 'how can we attract our audience'. And somebody said something to the effect of 'hmm, black people you say? Well, they like their women to be half naked, counting money (not investing it), rims, and being loud. So let's just do that" Let me give you an analogy.

I work at Subway. I want to attract this same crowd; 18-30 year old African Americans. You come in and I give you a lame ass, stale, nasty, half baked sandwich and I expect that this is what you want to eat. You don't deserve any better than what I gave you. Why? Because this is what you guys eat. So shut up and eat it. That's what they serve you down the street. Why would I pull out my GOOD bread, or my FRESH meat for you? You don't ask for it. You just take what I give you. So see ya, bye, eat your stale sandwich and be gone.

But the truth is, we all don't want that crap. We all don't want to eat that sandwich. We all don't want to watch a group of young African Americans embarrass themselves on television by thinking that a 8 2 off suit is really a good hand. We don't want to see them not knowing how to count their chips. We don't want to see them get excited about the pointless half naked women on the show when they should be concentrating on their hand and what charity they're playing for. We don't want that. But if we expect to change what they give us, we've got to change ourselves first. Until our music and videos are more than just ass shaking and counting money, the world will continue to see us as ignorant, ghetto, horrible with money, women degrading, black folk. I love being black. I wouldn't have it any other way. I love hip hop music. I love black families. I like nice things. I like money. But I also love being intelligent. I also love having 2 degrees from college. I love having dreams and goals and not living in the 'now' but preparing for the future. And I think far too often, people (not just black people) don't understand that you can have both. You can be black and intelligent. It's not 1 or the other.

Well, I'm done. I'll tell you one thing though. As soon as I get a lil bit of screen time, people are going to hear what I have to say. And the crazy thing about it is, the majority of African Americans are not like they portray on television. But we keep on eating that stale sandwich and they're making money off of it. So why should they give you the good bread?

"The media's the most powerful entity on earth. They have the power to make the innocent guilty and to make the guilty innocent, and that's power. Because they control the minds of the masses"
-Malcom X

Film Festivals

2006-10-31T18:16:00.000-08:00

Alright...so I'm finally finised with my movie. I'm at a point where I could let somebody watch it and not have to explain why this part is messed up or this part still needs to be fixed. You get my drift. I had my first screening last week and got good feedback. People really seemed to like the film. And at first I took the compliments lightly because you never know who's feeding you the b.s. But I heard good things from credible sources. I'm having another screening tomorrow.

I also submitted it for its first film festival today. I dropped it off for the Slamdance Film Festival. Not to be confused with Sundance but it goes on at the same time. We'll see. There are soooo many festivals it's crazy. They even have a Southern Fried Chcken Film Festival. lol. Yeah I know but I bet you I submit for it.

Anyway. 2006 is coming to an end pretty soon and then it's gonna be time to get ya hustle on for 2007. Don't wait until Jan to start planning your work and working your plan. Get on it now. That's what I'm doing. Not that you care...well you must care 'cause you're reading my blog. And if you're doing that...you must care.

Okay, the J has spoken and the J is out!!!!!

Holla

Re-Focus

2006-10-10T10:59:00.000-07:00

It's time to get back on track. Re-focus the energies. Get back on the grind. I think you should always set dates and goals to achieve. That way, you have something to work towards. If you're just in a daily routine and going through the motions, that final goal will never be reached. You gotta keep working and striving to get where you want to be. A wise man once said "show me a satisfied man, and I'll show you a failure" I don't know how wise he was, or who he was...(techincally it could have been a she) but it has a little truth to it. My piano teacher used to always tell me " don't rest on your laruels. You shouldn't be so satisfied with what one you've already achieved that you make no further effort. She would tell me this after I won a piano competition. "Don't rest on your laruels". Translation, okay you won...not get back on the grind.

The grind. What is that? What are your goals? What do you want to achieve? Whatever it or they are, geterdone is what they say.

My father's 70th birthday was this past weekend. 70 years old and he's still cool as a fan. Love you pop. And in the words of my pops

'the good is out'

Holla

Speechless...

2006-08-22T13:54:00.000-07:00

This is a good friend of mine. Lauren Crowner. It hurts my heart to even say this but, she passed away earlier today (Tuesday, August 22nd 2006). To make matters worse, it was her 25th birthday. She was in a car accident, suffered a mild head injury, went home for the weekend, and her injury escalated into one of our worst fears. It was such an untimely death. Unexpected isn't even the word. When dealing with death, and especially a death like this one, the mind just can't grasp the 'why's or when's'. It just can't. Lauren was (is...I don't even know what to say) the most beautiful and positive person I ever met. I met her at Indiana University my freshman year (1999). Just off of looks, she was already one of the most popular people at the university. She was gorgeous. Then once you got to know her, actually sit down and speak with her you found out she was more than that. She was articulated. Educated. A person with just positive energy. Goals, dreams...you name it. She had it. I also had the pleasure of being her 'brother'. She was a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Man, when the Alphas crossed, and then the AKA's crossed haha..Indiana University wasn't ready for us! 19 Epiphany came through and IU honestly wasn't the same. Lauren was on that line.

When you talk about timing being completely off...I mean, on her birthday. Lord, I know everything happens for a reason but...this is a tough one. You know they say you should never take things for granted but that's much easier said than done. She was following her dreams. A journalism major, she found a great job working for NBC 4 in Columbus, OH. My thoughts are all screwed and mixed up but I'm just typing.

I'm mad, angry, sad, scared, thankful for my life and blessings...thankful that she left such a positive legacy. Thankful that she was such a good person. I can only hope that people feel the same way about me once I pass on. You just can't say one fucking bad thing about her. I just don't know what to say. Speechless. And I'm not even going to try to answer why, 'cause that'll just give me a bigger headache. I'll shed more tears and I'll still feel like I have no answers. And this is just how I feel. I can only imagine how her close friends feel. Carrie, Mandy, Aundrea, Meisha, Rose..the whole 19. Her family. I can't even imagine how hard this is. But to everyone who is touched by this death, to everybody who got the pleasure to meet Lauren, to everybody who she inspired...you're also in my thoughts and prayers. She had such a short life, but an important one.

I'm just going to take this time to say I love you and thank you to all of my friends and family. There are far too many to list, but you know who you are. From my Mom, to Gary and my boys from St. Louis, to 540 and 222, to my baby girl Carrie, to everybody I've ever met and had a chance to befriend...know that I appreciate you all. Life is short and you never know when your time to go may be. So Love God. Enjoy life and the time that you are here. And take this as a wake-up call if nothing else. Death is one of the only certainties in life. So don't fear death. Lauren is in a much better place right now than we can ever imagine. God makes no mistakes. We may not understand his reasoning, but he makes a way not sometimes...but all the time. So just take time right now to say a prayer for her and her family. Be grateful for the many many many blessings that you have right now....

peace

J Lee

Finally

2006-08-11T17:23:00.000-07:00

Hard work pays off. I don't believe there is a thing called luck. I think there are blessings and I believe if you work hard you will see results. And then on top of that, if you keep things right, the man upstairs will help you out. But the thing to remember is, it's not supposed to happen when YOU think it should. Or when YOU want it to. It happens when it's supposed to happen.

I'm finally SAG now. I booked my first union, nicely paying, acting gig and I feel good about it. I feel like I deserved it. I've been in LA a solid 2 years now (I was getting away with telling people 1 1/2 for the longest) but I've come to grips with my time in LA. And it hasn't been the easiest of roads, but it sure as hell ain't the toughest thing in life. Again, if you know how to get your hustle on and 'do' instead of 'talk', you'll start 'seeing' results and instead of 'hoping' for them. So now, I've gotten past a nice little hurdle in the road to the top. I told you I'd be giving you updates, the good and the bad, as my journey continues. But there's plenty more work to do...so I'mma stop talking and get back to doing. But just wanted to enjoy it for a brief second...ya dig?

Holla

'Make no assumptions, I'm hustling"
J Lee

It ain't easy

2006-08-06T22:40:00.000-07:00

Life isn't always the easiest. You ever just have a bad day? Like the stars just aren't lined up right? The world's a little on tilt? And the bad part about it is that you can't really do anything about it. Just gotta take your lumps. Take your bad days. And nobody wants to be in a bad mood, and for damn sure, nobody wants to be in a bad mood and not know why. But sometimes it happens. And you just gotta chalk it up as a loss and pray that the next day is better than today. And maybe during that bad day of yours, you happened to learn something. Who knows...when life gives you lemons throw them bitches back and ask for chocolate covered strawberries is what I say.

I'm sitting here with a handful of lemons but my waiter is nowhere to be found. I want to return these lemons and get ccs's.

I'm out
-whatever

2006-07-27T15:34:00.000-07:00

"I was gone for a minute but now I'm back on the jump off."
Yeah, I quoted Lil Kim. But if she can get a TV show on the air for going to prison, I know that the boy J Lee can get a syndicated show on air.

Here's to saying ' f it'. Why not do something different? Do what you want to do? I am. You should. I figure you have 2 choices. A) You can sit back and watch other people do what you wish you could. Or B) say f it.

I've been debating something for the past few weeks or so. I've been thinking about saying f it and moving to London or African for 6 months. And not, go over there, stay in a nice hotel and eat American food and do everything that I would do in the states, but in London. No, I mean, moving over there. Finding a small apartment. Living amongst them. Learning the culture. Why you say? Why not? I'm not married, I don't have any kids, I have no REAL responsibilities here in Los Angeles. To that, you say, 'But J, what about all the connections and all the hard work you've put into your career'? To that I say, I didn't have any connections when I moved out. No job. No money (unless you count $170). But, when you're destined for greatness, you're destined for greatness. You think you're going to outrun what the man upstairs has for you? I think not. So, yeah, I'd go. And I'd hustle. And I'd miraculously start meeting people that knew people and then the next thing you know, I'm on 'Inside the Actors Studio' with James Lipton talking about how I made it. Doesn't matter. You can take 70, 40, 44, the 10, the 91, even the 101 west. It just depends on how much you're trying to see on the way. 'Cause you know what would suck? To speed west down one of these freeways, and then get there and realize you missed the whole damn trip. And now that you're where you want to be, all of a sudden you want to go back and visit the grand canyon. But it ain't the same potna!

Anyway, you either feel me or will feel me. Holla at your boy.

C Money. Good luck on your journey. Don't speed too fast trying to get to that end goal. There are a lot of bonuses on the way to the top. I'm like a sponge. I break stuff.

lol

J Lee
(for those of you who went back and read and re-read that last sentence. It doesn't make sense. It was a joke.)

SALUT!!

2006-06-14T09:40:00.000-07:00

"Here's to the crazy ones, the misfits, the rebels,
the troublemakers, the round pegs in the square holes...
the ones who see things differently -- they're not fond of rules...
You can quote them, disagree with them, glorify or vilify them,
but the only thing you can't do is ignore them because they
change things... they push the human race forward, and while
some may see them as the crazy ones, we see genius,
because the ones who are crazy enough to think that they
can change the world, are the ones who do."

What do you need?

2006-05-17T11:48:00.000-07:00

What is it that you need right now? Think about it. I guess you can mix a little want in that need, but what is it? A new car? A new job? A new opportunity?

Whatever it is, think about it, process it, and then make it happen. Don't wait. There's no reason to. Go after it and geterdone. I'm tired of waiting around for other people to make stuff happen for me. You can be in the driver's seat of your future, or wait on the bus stop and hope that bus takes you where you want to go. Me...I'm driving with the top down, aviators on, and a brand new outfit on. Where am I going?? Not sure exactly, but I'm headed in the right direction. I just got out of 2nd gear and as soon as I get my speed up, I'm going to be coasting in 5th. And I'm trying to be welcomed at a lot of different places. Ya dig?

So what you need to do is...open that closet ...wait, scratch that. Go buy a new outfit, iron it, take a shower splash on some smell good, get a car wash and start driving. Don't matter where. Just start driving.

Two G's biggs...I'm trying to see you riding in the fast lane right next to me.

"I'm standing firm. Life's a slinky"
-Lil Weezy

"I live by the 'look at this mutha fucka' factor. When you walk in a room, either you're the one on the side, hating, saying 'look at this muthafucka'. Or you're that muthafucka. And I'm that muthafucka!"
-Jamie Foxx

2006-05-08T23:42:00.000-07:00

I"M DROWNING!!

2006-04-21T13:07:00.000-07:00

"it ain't easy being green"
-Kermit The Frog

Man I tell you...being goal oriented is hard sometimes. You have to actually put words into action and follow through. That'd hard ish. We all want results...but it's the work inbetween the results that people are afraid of doing. I've been shooting a film for the past 2 months and I have learned so much just being in the fire. I jumped in the water with no raft, boat, or them little things that go around your arms. I just dove in. But, I'm floating..and I'm starting to get my backstroke going. But if I could give any advice...that would be "do it". just do it. Don't want around for other people to validate your ideas. You don't need 100 people in your corner just to get started. You believe in something enough, other people will buy into it. Trust me.

In other news, I am actually anxious to get back to LA. Don't know why. I guess I miss the hustle a little bit. Here's a list of things J Lee doesn't miss

-Traffic
-People bragging about themselves with no good reason
-The red carpet bullshit
-$10 drinks at a club, where outside I just dealt with the red carpet bullshit
(Side note, once I'm making some major major loot, and I've solidified myself as a star, I'm going to go to the club with my boy B...stand in the BACK of the line, and tell the owner I'm not coming in unless you let all of the people in front of me in. AND first round's on me)...now back to the show
-Arguing at 24 hour fitness
-Everything being in style
(Ladies and gentlemen...just cause your fit is 'different' doesn't make it hot. Colors should still match, and clothes should still fit"

Things i DO miss about LA
-Carrie (we suck at distance...but that's my booski)
-Hooping at 24 hour fitness
-The weather
-Making money
-The beach
-Family Guy
-Hustling

And the list goes on. ALright....I got some swimming to do. I'll holla

J Lee
The Next Big Thing In Hollywood
-He's back, April 28th folks

It's Comin!!

2006-03-20T11:25:00.000-08:00

Yo...just want to let everybody know, that J Lee's birthday is MARCH 23rd! Mark your calendars, set your clocks, sync your palm pilots whatever, 'cause it's going down. Now I'm not able to celebrate like I normally would because I'm in the middle of shooting my movie. BUT don't get it twisted, the wrap party for the film can count as my official birthday celebration.

Besides that, I know I haven't dropped any great knowledge in awhile, but that's only because I'm in the trenches making it happen. I promise when I get finished with this project, I'll have plenty of stories.

Until then, holla at your boy.

J Lee

"Don't sweat the small stuff"
-Brandon Williams

Poppin' my collar

2006-03-11T20:49:00.000-08:00

"Ever since I can remember, I been poppin' my collar....poppin' my collar"
-Three Six Mafia

I don't know if you saw the Academy Awards, but Three Six Mafia won an Oscar. Now, that may not be a big deal to some of you, but it sure in the hell was for me. I was jumping up and down. And I am suuuuuuuuuuuuure some snotty nosed, uppity folks were sitting around mad as hell that they won. "OH MY GOSH! NEGROES WITH GOLD TEETH AND JEANS HAVE INVADED AMERICA" You know what's funny though, is that the hip hop culture is what runs America. From music to trendy styles, it all can be traced to what I call the 'hip hop' culture. Or as my mom says, the 'hibbidy hop mess' culture. As soon as I win an oscar, I'm going to go out and buy a car that is really expensive on gas...buy a watch, and take my boys out and waste the rest. And then, 3 months after that, I'll be old news. SIKE! Not the kid. Money begets money my friend. My motto for 2006. Sip, Tip, and Get Paid. Not necessarily in that order. My boy Brandon put me on to that.

I'm in the middle of a huge production. When I get back to LA, it's on and poppin' once again. Back to the scripts, back to the auditions, and back to the hustle. It doesn't stop. It's like Puff Diddy. It won't stop. It can't stop. Take that, take that.
Well anyway, I'm back on it. I'll write more later.

"bet ya can't do it like me"
D4L

Hey There Buuuuuuuuudy"

2006-03-04T07:05:00.000-08:00

"It's been a long time since I first got down, but I still keep makin' these funky sounds"
-Too Short

I know it's been a little while since my last post, but I've got good reason. I'm actually out of Los Angeles right now filming a movie. I don't want to talk too much about it. Once it's finished, edited, and distributed, then I'll fill in all the details.

It's weird, 'cause when you leave LA, you are able to put some things in perspective. You get so busy trying to 'make it', you forget about how to 'enjoy it'. You're so busy thinking about your next move, you don't know what your present move is. Something about LA brings out the hustle in people. Well...most people. I guess if you don't get on your hustle once you cross that California State line or deboard at LAX, you'll get swept under the table. Fast. And it's hundreds of cats that are willing to take your place. But I'm now able to sit back and not so much relax, but enjoy a little bit. I still have big dreams and goals (Goal = a dream with a deadline) but I don't want to rush.

I also finally got a new phone. I didn't want to get it 'cause EVERYBODY in LA had one, but the functionality of it is perfect for me. I can do all that e-mailing and texting and ish on the spot. And no, if you don't have my number already, you can't have it. I'm $25 million a movie people. =)

J Lee

He Be Woooooooooorkin'!!

2006-02-23T12:02:00.000-08:00

Man, the devil stays busy. Trying to disrupt your days, your plans, your thoughts, and anything else you're trying to do in life. And if you let him, he'll succeed. He tried to get me this morning. Making traffic horible, my damn cell phone had no battery and I was in the middle of a very important call, got to work late, deliveries didn't come through, money wasn't where it was supposed to be. You name it, he tried to fuck it up.

But he's got no control over me. He's got no control over what I do. And not to get all relgious on all you folks (well I guess it is purposeful so I'm not apologizing...'cause even if you don't believe in him, he believes in you.) but the Lord puts you through little tests all the time. You gotta go down before you go up. And he makes a way, not somehow, but ANYHOW.

So you know what happened? After I got all frustrated and mad and was ready to throw my phone out of the window...I thought about it and smiled. I could be carless, jobless, goal-less, and less of a bunch of stuff. But I ain't. I'm healthy, good to go, and about to embark on a huge project and experience. And once I realized that and thanked God, even for the horrible morning, everything worked out. Money jumped back into place, cell phone batter got some life, a lane opened up in the middle of the road just for my Kia Sportage and I made the rest of the lights to work.

"Coach they won't knock me off my pivot...forget it!"

Nobody can stop you but you. All you need is one person on your side, and that's God. If you've got him there, no matter WHAT life throws at you, you'll be alright. If he's for you, can't nobody be against you. And you can take that to the bank.

Speaking of the banks, when I get rich, I ain't using 'em. No credit either. Cash only. If I buy a 5 million dollar house, I'm going to show up in some basketball shorts, a tank top, some aviator glasses, and two big ass suitcases. I don't want to owe money to anybody. No sir. Electric bill you say? They're getting one big ass check at the beginning of the month. Don't call me. I'll call you LADWP. Your money is there. Just take it out each month and leave me alone. Holla at your boy.

J Lee
"I'm standing firm, life's a slinky"

Happy Happy Joy Joy

2006-02-07T18:30:00.000-08:00

I love being happy. You ever wake up in the morning and just know that you're going to have a good day? Feel like you can take on the world? And then you get to work, school, or somewhere and that one person comes along. That negative person who's always talking about how hard life is, and how much everybody hates them, and how hard it is out here for a pimp...and then you wanna just go back home and go to sleep?

If you're that person....stop it! Stop bringing other people down. Stop making life so damn traumatic. Be happy.
"Nothing is so good it can't be better, and nothing is so bad it can't be worse".

It ain't that bad. You ain't the only person who had a rough day. Geesh.!

On another note...

Repeat after me.

J Lee
Speak Life.

You
(In Unison)
Speak life.

You know what that means? When you speak life, you speak something into exsitence. You want a new job? Speak life. You want a new car? Speak life. You want a new girlfriend/boyfriend that is perfect for you and makes you smile everytime you see them? Yep. Speak that puppy into existence.

Okay, that's it. I'll have more tomorrow. Point of the story is...if you want something in life, claim it and then go after it. Peace, love, and nappiness!!

J Lee
"Worry about your mission, not your position"

Congrats!!

2006-01-27T12:08:00.000-08:00

My mom sent me an old plaque that I received over 10 years ago. I have dozens and dozens of things that I have from my childhood that all of a sudden make sense. Carrie always makes fun of me because it seems like everyday, I have a new story about something that happened to me, or something that I went through. This is from my induction into the Lafayette, MO Optimist Club. It was March 13th, 1995. Here is what the Optimist Creed states:

Promise yourself-
To be so strong that nothing can disturb your peace of mind.
To talk health, happiness and prosperity to every person you meet.
*To make all your friends feel that there is something in them.
To look at the sunny side of everything and make your optimism come true.
To think only of the best, to work only for the best, and expect only the best.
*To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as your are about your own.
To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future.
To wear a cheerful countenance at all times and give every living creature you meet a smile.
To give so much time to the improvement of yourself that you have no time to criticize others.
To be too large for worry, too noble for anger, too strong for fear, and too happy to permit the presence of trouble.

This is my booski.

I preach about this and I say it over and over, but you have to set goals for yourself. If you shoot for nothing, guaranteed, you'll hit it. My baby just got a huge promotion and I'm proud of her. She's doing her thing. She took a risk by moving out to LA, but now she's found her groove and making it happen for herself. She's determined, dedicated, hard working (sometimes stubborn lol) and motivated. But the point is, she was able to adapt and make LA work for her, not work for LA.

This blog is for her and for me to let her know how proud I am of her. Because sometimes I get so busy trying to tackle my career and make things happen for myself, that sometimes I overlook the things that are important to others. And I don't want to ever be that consumed to where I miss the important things in life.

Holla

******************************************************************************************************************************

Swinging For The Fences

2006-01-23T17:47:00.000-08:00

I'm at the plate, bottom of the ninth, full count. We're down by 2 and there's a man on 1st and second. The man behind you has had no success in hitting against the pitcher you're facing. What would you do?

I'll tell you what I'd do. I'm swinging that bat. And I'm swinging for extra bases. Last year, when I first got here to LA, I probably would have hoped to draw a walk. Anything but f*** up. Just please, please let me get on base. Let the next guy either save the day or be the laughing stock of the week. And the next guy, who has never hit this particular pitcher, would probably strike out in horrible fashion. We'd lose the game and people would be upset. But they couldn't blame me. I did my job. I got on base.

Not in 2006. Not the kid. Not J Lee. I'm swinging and 1 of 2 things will happen. 1) I'll strike out/ground out and the game is over. J Lee lost the game. Boo hoo good night. 2) I'll crack that bat and pop a double and I'll win the game. Everybody rushes me and says 'we knew you could do it, kid" and I get a 100 MILLION dollar bonus. They put up a statue of me in the middle of the White House because that's how tight my performance was. Because, this is what happens, even when you swing and miss...you know what it FEELS like to swing for the fences. You'll realize you can at least DO it. You may not have done it correctly, or successfully, but you DID it. Then, you can improve from that. But you can't improve from something you never try. You can't become a professional BX bike rider if you're too scared to ride a bike sans training wheels. So do it. And do it big. You can live your entire life hitting singles and bunting the ball. And you'll probably have a nice long career. But if you don't take that bat off of your shoulders and put your legs, arms, back, heart into that swing, you'll never be in the hall of fame. You'll be that person who "was a really good talent, and had a solid game...but never played in an all-star game. Never got endorsements." And I'm not saying that that is what everything is about. Getting recognition and cheers. But you're talking to a person who doesn't know how to do anything without doing it the best I can. And my best is pretty damn good. lol

You probably think I'm cocky as hell. lol. I'm just swinging.

-J Lee

Jason Lee Vs J Lee. Round 2

2006-01-09T17:35:00.000-08:00

"tonight I might, just boost my feature price
'cause to each his own, and the lights is bright
and I'm feelin' like Mike at a Tyson fight"
-Lil Weezy.

Ya'll don't feel me. Let me get into this blog...
******************************************************************************************************************************

Alright, in round one, J Lee won by a landslide. Here's the rematch;

You may or may not know, but I am taking on a pretty big project right now. No question, the biggest of my entertainment career. If it goes well, this could be the launch pad that takes me from from the shores and into the big waves. After that, it's all about getting past the big waves, which is the big challenge. Once you're past the big waves, it's coasting in the ocean. But you see nothing but water and water in front of you and you think you'll never get to the other side. But I ain't stoppin' there. I'm going all the way to the other side.

"I'm riding a wave people. I'm riding it until I'm washed on the shore of my destiny and I've got the sand of success all over my face. And I'll turn over and let the sun hit my face and smile. And thank God. And probably cry tears of joy. Because I know that I know that I know...I'm headed for greatness."
-'You've got to know that you know that you know' blog.

Anyway, let me get back to the point. I am in pre-production for this project and it takes a lot of detail and busy work. But I'm prepared for it. When I was president of my fraternity (and it's fitting that this is where really learned these skills) I had to take care of a lot of paperwork, busy work, ain't nobody doing it so Jason will get it done work. And that's where I am. I have to take care of the little things now so they don't come back to bite me in the ass. But it's going well so far. Jason Lee is definitely taking over right about now. All of my 'T's will be crossed and my 'I''s dotted. There's a little room for creativity, but it's mostly business right about now. J Lee was the one who thought of this project, but Jason Lee has to take it from here. Once this section is done, J Lee will be itching to get back in the driver's seat. And he will. But right now, Jason Lee is driving the bus. Sit back and put your seat belt on J Lee. It's gonna be a long ride.

Round 2: = Jason Lee

Jason Lee = 1. J Lee = 1.