Actor Doug Jones to speak at CLU
His specialty is science fiction, comic book characters
Doug Jones
Doug Jones

THOUSAND OAKS, CA. - Actor Doug Jones will talk to California Lutheran University students and the community at 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 23, as part of the “Conversations With … “ series.

The second in a series of informal discussions with actors on their craft will be held in the Preus-Brandt Forum on the Thousand Oaks campus. Actor, writer and director Markus Flanagan, who teaches at CLU, will be the moderator for a one-hour talk followed by a question-and-answer session with the audience.

The youngest of four brothers, Jones grew up in Indianapolis, Ind., and studied theatre, mime and contortionism at Ball State University. He moved to Los Angeles in 1985, and has not been out of work since.

Jones is best known for his work under heavy makeup and prosthetics playing science fiction and comic book characters. His performance as Abe Sapien in “Hellboy” brought him to prominence and he went on to play Pan in the “Pan's Labyrinth.” He also portrayed the Silver Surfer in “Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer” and Abe Sapien, the Angel of Death and the Chamberlain in “Hellboy II: The Golden Army.” He also had roles in “Doom,” “The Benchwarmers” and “Lady in the Water.”

His most satisfying performance to date was a starring role written for him in the independent film “My Name is Jerry.” The movie won numerous awards and Jones earned a Best Actor award at the 3rd Strasbourg International Film Festival in 2010.

Jones has also acted in many commercials, television series including “Buffy The Vampire Slayer” and “Criminal Minds,” and music videos with the likes of Madonna, The Red Hot Chili Peppers and Marilyn Manson. He has done extensive voice work, including the role as Abe Sapien in the “Hellboy” animated series, on the indie short movie “Rise,” and in the animated movie “Quantum Quest - A Cassini Space Odyssey.” He and his wife also mentor young people who are beginning their careers in the business.

Flanagan, a 24-year veteran in the industry, has appeared in 10 movies and more than 100 TV shows. He also lectures for acting programs throughout the country.

Flanagan’s 2007 book, “One Less Bitter Actor: The Actor’s Survival Guide,” explains how to make it in the business of acting while staying sane and focused. The “Conversations With …” talks at CLU take the same approach, providing theatre arts students and other aspiring actors with advice from professionals.

Donations will be accepted. Proceeds will benefit the CLU Theatre Arts Department.

Preus-Brandt Forum is located south of Olsen Road near Mountclef Boulevard.

For more information, call (805) 493-3415 or e-mail dramadpt@callutheran.edu.