Share
Ten-year-old Julius-Raymond Weems IV is blowing them away on Broadway. He’s making his debut in MJ the Musical. He will have the opportunity to play both but his main role is Little Marlon. Yet, Broadway isn’t the only avenue where the genius prodigy shines.
In addition to his theater work, J.R. went viral on the internet for his dance video to Beyoncé’s “Stronger.” He’s also done voiceover work for ads, including ones for the Environmental Defense Fund and Gary Vee’s VeeFriends. He is set to appear in the 2024 film Stronger by Emmy-nominated Harold Jackson III and is really disrupting the status quo on generational wealth and leadership.
In anticipation of his Tuesday, October 22, 2024, Broadway debut at the Neil Simon Theatre, J.R. sat down with Sheen Magazine to talk about his rise in the entertainment world, his viral moment, and how he’s balancing it all.
How did J.R. The Star’s viral dance to Beyoncé’s “Stronger” change his career, and what advice does he have for young performers trying to make their own breakthrough?
Performing is everything to me, it’s my passion. When the video went viral, I was super thankful for all the love it got—it really changed things for me! My advice to other young performers is simple: never give up. Even when things get tough, you have to keep pushing and believe in yourself no matter what. 
What has J.R. learned from his role as Little Marlon in MJ the Musical, and how has it shaped his journey as a performer in such a legendary production? 
Man, this is Michael Jackson! Like, the legend himself! I’ve learned so much during rehearsals and getting ready for my debut. It’s taught me how to respect this role and understand how much responsibility comes with it. As a performer, this is such a special opportunity, and I’m giving it everything I’ve got.
How does J.R. balance his Broadway debut, upcoming movie role in Stronger, and voiceover work while still being just 10 years old? 
It’s not really about balance for me—it’s more about believing in your dream. The schedule can be hard, but I’m living my dream every day, so that makes it all worth it!
What was it like for J.R. to serve as a panelist at the Howard University x PNC Conference at such a young age, and how does he view his role in conversations about generational wealth and leadership? 
Being a panelist at the HU PNC Conference was awesome! I learned a lot. My parents always talk about wealth and building legacy being something you leave for your family, and that’s important to me too. I’m already working on my own businesses, like my clothing line, YouTube channel and my entertainment career, so I’m really into building for the future.
With J.R.’s Broadway debut and film Stronger coming in 2024, what can fans expect next from this multi-talented rising star in entertainment and beyond? 
We’re focused on MJ for the rest of this year, but in 2025, I’ll be building my brand even more. I’ve got some cool voiceover projects dropping next year, and my goal is to get into more movies and maybe even a TV series. Stay tuned!
Photo Credit: Julius-Raymond Weems IV
Story By: Erika Williams