R. Tariq Powell

Known equally for his versatile acting ability and tattooed physique, R. Tariq Powell began his film career in 2011, by appearing in a series of award-winning short films. Born in Mesa, AZ, the actor and producer spent his formative years in the small town of Fordoche, LA, which he also considers home. By his teens the self-admitted "country boy" had returned to the place of his birth, where he would go on to graduate from Tempe McClintock High School. Powell then attended Arizona State University where he studied Broadcast Journalism, African-American Studies, and Spanish. He graduated with a Bachelor's of Arts Degree in 2004. Following his undergraduate studies Powell went through a period of indecision in his life. It was during this time that the actor worked a variety of jobs, including investment banking, construction, and serving abroad as a U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer. It wasn't until a relative dared him to "give acting a try" in 2009, that he even considered acting as a profession. The dare not only led Powell to his first professional acting gig, but to a graduate scholarship from the Pennsylvania State University as well, where the actor earned his M.F.A. in 2012. Powell is also co-founder of To the Moon Productions along with U.S. filmmaker Bello Galadanchi. When he is not working the actor enjoys doing philanthropy, traveling, and riding Harley Davidson motorcycles.