Maxwell Jenkins

Born and raised in Chicago, Maxwell Jenkins is a sensitive, thoughtful and multi-talented 12-year-old, who is already making an impact in the world of TV and film.

He made his performing debut as an acrobat at the tender age of three, performing handstands on his father's hands in his family’s theatrical circus company, Midnight Circus.His natural stage presence shines on camera where he brings a deep sensitivity to his roles.

Maxwell's acting adventures began at age eight as a series regular on ABC's Betrayal. He followed up with recurring roles on the Netflix series SENSE8, NBC's Chicago Fire and a guest-starring role on NCIS: NewOrleans. Maxwell recently starred opposite Gerard Butler in THE HEADHUNTER’S CALLING, which premiered at the 2016 Toronto International Film Festival. Other film credits include POPSTAR, directed by Akiva Schaffer and Jorma Taccone.

In addition to his on-camera success, each year Maxwell, along with his sister Samantha, Mom, Dad, his two rescued Pit Bulls, and a dozen world-class acrobats, tour Chicago in an intimate big top, playing neighborhood parks from the south side to the north side and all points in between. The show brings communities together while raising funds to rebuild local parks. In 2014, Maxwell was part of the troupe when they made history as the first and only American troupe to ever be featured in the prestigious Montreal Circus Festival.

In between filming, Maxwell can often be found playing mandolin and holding down vocals with his band“Cowboy Jesus & the Sugar Bums” who were awarded a Chicago Music Award in 2015 for Best YoungTalent. He is also an avid snowboarder and soccer player. When not on set, Max attends his neighborhood Chicago public school and hopes to become either a writer or a scientist.