#WORSTCHRISTMASEVER
CAST BIOGRAPHIES
Bill Bellamy
Bill Bellamy is an acclaimed American comedian, actor, and producer whose quick wit, smoothcharisma, and cultural impact have defined more than three decades in entertainment. ANewark, New Jersey native and Rutgers University alumnus, Bellamy burst ontothe nationalstage through HBO’s Def Comedy Jam, where he coined the now-iconic phrase “booty call,” apop-culture moment that solidified his place in comedy history. His breakout performances ledto memorable film roles in Love Jones, The Brothers, Any Given Sunday, and How to Be aPlayer, showcasing his effortless ability to balance humor with heart. On television, he becamea mainstay with hosting gigs on MTV Beach House, Last Comic Standing, and Bill Bellamy’sWho’s Got Jokes?, as well as starring turnsin Fastlane, Mr. Box Office, and HBO’s Insecure.Continuing to evolve as one of the most versatile voices in comedy, Bellamy remains a powerfulpresence both on screen and on stage. In recent years, he starred in House Party and Back onthe Strip (2023),hosted the Celebration of Black Cinema & Television, and appeared in the hitseries Bel-Air as Julius Banks, reaffirming his relevance and range in today’s entertainmentlandscape. His latest stand-up special, Bill Bellamy: I Want My Life Back (2022), reveals the wit,wisdom, and honesty of a man who continues to reinvent himself while inspiring newgenerations of performers. With a legacy built on authenticity and innovation, Bill Bellamystands as a cultural icon who helped shape modern comedy and continues to make audienceslaugh worldwide
B.J. Britt
B.J. Britt is an acclaimed American actor known for his dynamic range, charismatic screen presence, and ability to bring depth and authenticity to every role he embodies. Born in North Carolina, Britt began his career with television appearances that quickly established him as one of Hollywood’s most versatile talents. From heartthrobs to heroes, his performances continue to captivate audiences worldwide.
Britt’s breakout came as Paul Patterson Jr. in BET’s hit drama Being Mary Jane, where he starred opposite Gabrielle Union in a role that showcased his emotional depth and on-screen magnetism. He further cemented his reputation as a fan favorite with his portrayal of Agent Antoine Triplett in Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., bringing warmth, wit, and courage to the beloved character.
His television career spans a wide array of critically acclaimed shows including UnREAL (as NFL quarterback Darius Beck), Pitch, Sons of Anarchy, The Vampire Diaries, Veronica Mars,Magnum P.I., and A Million Little Things. In film, Britt’s credits include Peaceful Warrior, Heavens Fall, Transfer, Vampires Suck, and Should’ve Been Romeo, as well as a starring role in Rediscovering Christmas and The Holiday Stocking for the Hallmark network.
Most recently, Britt headlines The Groomsmen film trilogy (First Look, Second Chances, Last Dance), continuing to expand his repertoire as both an actor and producer.
Known for his professionalism, humility, and dedication to his craft, B.J. Britt remains a sought-after talent in Hollywood. Whether tackling action, comedy, or heartfelt drama, he continues to inspire audiences with his authenticity and passion for storytelling
Maurice Hall
Filmmaker, Maurice Hall transitioned from a pro football career into film and television starting off as an actor, working on ABC's Grey’s Anatomy, General Hospital, The Rookie, High Potential and Netflix’s True Story starring Kevin Hart. Maurice Hall decided to help increase his value by writing, directing and producing content including feature film, BAKER’S MAN that is currently streaming on Amazon Prime, A Heart For Christmas, streaming exclusively on Tubi and ALLBLK this holiday season and #WORSTCHRISTMASEVER that will be released in theaters and streaming on Tubi starting November 2025. Hall holds a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree from The Ohio State University where he played Division I football, won a National Championship and graduated with honors. He played professional football for the San Diego Chargers in 2005
Mo Ashley
Mo Ashley is an actor, director, and producer from Toledo, Ohio, making her feature film debut....finally proving to her family that all those hours watching movies were “research.”Whether she’s in front of the camera or yelling “Cut!” behind it, Mo is all about telling real stories with heart, humor, and just the right amount of chaos.
She believes in the power of film to spark conversation, shift perspectives, and occasionally make people cry into their popcorn. This is her first feature, and if she survives the premiere, definitely not her last.
Shanti Lowry
Born and raised in Boulder, Colorado, 2x Emmy nominated actress, producer, dancer, and singer Shanti Lowry seemed destined for the spotlight. Despite escaping a childhood of poverty and abuse, she chose to visualize a greater life for herself and found solace in pretending to be other people.
Her first shot at performing came around at the age of 10, when she auditioned and booked a role in a play after seeing a casting call in the local paper. Six years later, Shanti took part in a dance competition in Boulder, winning the grand prize of a dance agent in Los Angeles. Seeing it as fate, she packed her bags and moved west to pursue her dream. It didn’t take long for her tofind success, booking the Earth, Wind and Fire international tour at the age of 17 and Chaka Khan’s regional tour (choreographed by Debbie Allen) just a year later.
After booking various music videos with hit artists like N*SYNC and Usher, and even being one of the original members of The Pussycat Dolls, Shanti decided to take her talents to the screen and begin her journey as an actress. She found success with roles in shows such as NYPD Blue, Girlfriends, The Closer, Don’t Trust the B—in Apartment 23, The Game, School of Rock, Murder in the First, Uncle Buck, Kingdom, CodeBlack, BronxSIU (2x Emmy nominated for the role of Yolanda), and several others.
Shanti’s latest work is a leading role in the upcoming feature film PERSONA, a thriller about two women trapped in a house who must work together in order to escape. The project is particularly unique as it was comprised of 75% BIPOC and 50% women for its cast and crew. Apart from starring in the film, Shanti also served as an executive producer, spearheaded casting and costume design, and worked closely with the writer to find emotional layers to create complex female characters. Shanti also did the final cut of the script and served as prep and post director.
When not starring on the screen, Shanti enjoys spending time with her daughter and husband,staying in shape with CrossFit, participating in contemporary, jazz, hip-hop, or heels dance classes, and practicing self-care. She’s also an avid supporter of The Dove Project, Women for Women International, and Amnesty International
Taja V. Simpson
Taja V. Simpson is an award-winning American actress, director, producer, and motivational speaker whose commanding performances and entrepreneurial spirit have made her one of today’s most dynamic forces in entertainment. A Louisiana native, Simpson began her career with early television appearances on shows like Grey’s Anatomy, NCIS, and The Bold and the Beautiful, before gaining national attention as the quick-witted Debrah Simmons in Tyler Perry’s Boo 2! A Madea Halloween. Her breakthrough solidified her as a versatile talent who moves seamlessly between comedy, drama, and action. She went on to star in acclaimed projects such as Baby Money, Lola, and The Right Mom, earning praise for her emotional depth and magnetic screen presence.
Today, Simpson is best known as Priscilla Owens, the fearless and intelligent Secret Service agent on Tyler Perry’s hit primetime drama The Oval (BET, 2019–2025), where she delivers one of television’s most nuanced portrayals of strength and integrity. Beyond acting, she continues to expand her creative footprint with executive-produced films and speaking tours that empower women to pursue their purpose with passion. With recent roles in Hightown (2024) and Found(2025), and a return to the Madea universe in Madea’s Destination Wedding (2025), Taja V.Simpson stands as a trailblazer whose artistry, faith, and leadership continue to inspire audiences around the world
Tamala Jones
Tamala Jones is a celebrated American actress and producer whose dynamic career has made her one of Hollywood’s most versatile and enduring talents. Born in Pasadena, California, Jones first captured audiences with her charm and wit in cult classics such as Booty Call, The Wood, The Brothers, and Two Can Play That Game, establishing herself as a defining face of late-1990s and early-2000s Black cinema. With her natural comedic timing and emotional depth, she transitioned seamlessly between genres, leaving memorable marks in films like Kingdom Come, Head of State, and What Men Want, as well as in television hits including For Your Love and Veronica’s Closet.
Over the past decade, Jones has continued to evolve, captivating audiences in dramatic and action roles that showcase her range and resilience. Best known to millions as medical examiner Lanie Parish on ABC’s long-running series Castle, she has more recently starred in 9-1-1: Lone Star, Rebel, and the 2024 drama Ordinary Angels, alongside Hilary Swank. Her powerful performances in The Holiday Stocking (Hallmark, 2022) and Every Breath She Takes(Lifetime, 2023) further solidified her reputation as a leading lady who brings grace, intelligence,and authenticity to every role. With a career spanning over three decades, Tamala Jones remains a trailblazer whose talent continues to shine across film, television, and beyond.
Tyler Lofton
Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, Tyler Lofton is the eldest of five and first of his family to move out of state. With a growing passion for acting, he began working on films and commercials with a local talent agency before relocating to Los Angeles, California. Upon his arrival in 2015, Lofton began working on projects ranging from music videos and commercials, making appearances on Disney Channel and Youtube Red.
He began his rise co-starring on shows like Blackish and For All Mankind, which led him to booking a supporting role in The Sky is Everywhere, and guest starring on S.W.A.T,Love Victor, and more. Lofton is an artist with skills in many areas, allowing him to take on any role, in any situation