Introduction
John Clarence Stewart is a name that has been making waves in the entertainment industry, not only for his talent as an actor and musician but also for his activism in the LGBTQ+ community. With his breakout role as Simon on the hit NBC series, “Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist,” Stewart has been gaining more recognition and support from fans worldwide. In this article, we’ll dive deeper into his life, career, and how he’s making a difference in the world.
Early Life and Career
Stewart was born on August 16, 1987, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. He grew up in a musical family and began playing the piano at a young age. In 2009, he graduated from Louisiana State University with a degree in music education. After college, he moved to New York City to pursue a career in the entertainment industry. Stewart started his career in theater, performing in various productions such as “The Scottsboro Boys” and “A Strange Loop.” He also made appearances in TV shows like “Luke Cage” and “What/If.” However, it wasn’t until his role as Simon on “Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist” that he gained widespread recognition.
Breakout Role on “Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist”
“Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist” is a musical comedy-drama series that premiered on NBC in 2020. Stewart plays the role of Simon, Zoey’s coworker and friend who comes out as gay in the first season. His portrayal of Simon has been praised for its authenticity and sensitivity towards the LGBTQ+ community. In an interview with The Advocate, Stewart shared his thoughts on playing Simon, saying, “I’m grateful to be playing a role that celebrates the LGBTQ+ community. I hope that my portrayal of Simon can help people feel seen and heard.”
Advocacy and Activism
Stewart is not only an advocate for the LGBTQ+ community through his acting but also in his personal life. In an interview with the Human Rights Campaign, he shared his experience of coming out as gay and the importance of representation in the media. “I think it’s essential to see yourself reflected in the world around you,” he said. “For me, growing up, I didn’t see a lot of representation of gay men in the media, so I felt like I couldn’t be myself. Now, I feel like it’s my responsibility to be visible and vocal about my identity.” Stewart is also involved in various LGBTQ+ organizations, such as the Trevor Project and GLAAD, to promote equality and acceptance for all.
Music Career
Aside from acting, Stewart is also a talented musician. He released his debut EP, “Lyrics From My Window,” in 2014, which features a mix of soulful ballads and upbeat tracks. His music has been praised for its honesty and vulnerability, with songs tackling themes of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery.
Future Projects
Stewart’s star is on the rise, and he has several exciting projects in the works. He recently wrapped filming for the upcoming Netflix series, “Inventing Anna,” alongside Anna Chlumsky and Julia Garner. He’s also set to star in the upcoming film, “The Lovebirds,” alongside Kumail Nanjiani and Issa Rae.
Conclusion
John Clarence Stewart is an inspiration to many, not only for his talent but also for his advocacy and activism in the LGBTQ+ community. He’s a true representation of what it means to use your platform for good and to make a positive impact on the world. As he continues to make waves in the entertainment industry, we can’t wait to see what he has in store for us next.