Orlando Jones

Multi-talented Orlando Jones first came to prominence as an original member of the "MADtv" (Fox, 1995-2009) ensemble before going on to a prolific film career. Receiving his start as a staff writer and story editor on popular series such as "A Different World" (NBC, 1987-1993), Jones came to "MADtv" armed with a writer's instinct and a performer's manic determination to make people laugh. After two hilarious years on the long-running show, Jones left to focus on film work that included such projects as the beloved workplace comedy "Office Space" (1999). It was around that time that he became a nearly ubiquitous television presence after he was hired as the spokesman for the popular soft drink 7UP via a massive commercial campaign. The start of the next decade saw Jones in a slew of feature films; among them "Bedazzled" (2000), "Double Take" (2001), "Evolution" (2001), and "Drumline" (2002). Although other endeavors proved less successful - "The Orlando Jones Show" (FX, 2003) and "The Evidence" (ABC, 2005-06) - the talented comedic actor worked steadily with guest spots on series such as "Rules of Engagement" (CBS, 2006-13) and in feature films like "Cirque du Freak: The Vampire's Assistant" (2009). With his background as a writer and producer, as well as a demonstrated ability to switch gears between comedic and dramatic fare, Jones was prepared for a lengthy career in the always shifting landscape of film and television.