Jackie Long (born October 23, 1981) is an American television and film actor, writer, musician, director and producer from Altadena/Pasadena, California. He is best known for his roles as Benjamin “Esquire” Gordon in the movie ATL and Trotter in The Comebacks.

Early life

A native of Pasadena, California Long attended John Muir High School. He was a star athlete playing on both the basketball and track teams. Jackie was an involved and passionate student and was elected Junior Class President. A shining member of his class, he was voted “Most Likely to Succeed”, “Best Smile” and was elected prom king. Jackie always knew he wanted to be an actor but suffered from stage fright. To conquer his fear, he took acting classes and got work on several projects as an extra. He also shot television commercials for Toyota, McDonalds, KGB, Nike, the US Army, Al Gore’s “We” Campaign, Honda, Sprite and Cingular.

Career

Long’s film credits include the Will Smith produced cult-classic ATL where he played Benjamin “Esquire” Gordon; Idlewild, co-starring T.I and Big Boi,; The Comebacks playing the macho wide receiver, Trotter; Soulmen, with the late Bernie Mac, Isaac Hayes and Samuel L. Jackson; Love for Sale; Love Wrecked; The Magnificent Cooly-T; and Hurricane Season co-starring Oscar winning Forest Whitaker.

His television credits include Nick Cannon’s improv comedy show Wild’n Out on MTV; the Gosper Music Channel’s (GMC) film, A Cross to Bear; Love That Girl!, on the TV One network, co-starring Tatyana Ali; and a guest-starring role on the BET sitcom, Let’s Stay Together where he plays Micah, Kita’s love interest.

Philanthropy

A passionate advocate for youth empowerment and an eco-friendly lifestyle, Long created the Think Green Worldwide Tour. Teaming up with the likes of singer/actor Ray J, they spoke to local youth in Baton Rouge, LA.

In 2009, Long joined forces with the NAACP and The Achievement Academy after he was invited to show his film, Love for Sale and speak to students by Baton Rouge chapter president, Kwame Asante. Pleased with the response from students and Long’s Think Green Worldwide initiatives, Asante and Long continued to collaborate on youth outreach programs.

Awards and Honors

On August 31, 2012, Jackie Long was awarded the Fortune Award by the NAACP’s Baton Rouge, LA chapter for his work with The Achievement Academy, his commitment to youth empowerment and his green initiatives.

Personal life

Long was linked to pro-tennis player Serena Williams.