Thaddeus J. Mixson: From Little Big Shots To Creed III & Beyond!

11 May, 2025

Can a child prodigy truly conquer Hollywood, balancing the demands of acting, rapping, and dancing? Thaddeus J. Mixson is proving that the answer is a resounding yes, captivating audiences with his multifaceted talent and undeniable screen presence.

Born on January 19, 2008, Thaddeus J. Mixson has already carved out an impressive niche for himself in the entertainment industry. This American actor, rapper, and dancer, also known as Papa J, first captured attention with his early performances on "Baby Talk" at the tender age of five. By seven, he was showcasing his rapping and dancing prowess on NBC's "Little Big Shots," signaling the arrival of a young star with exceptional versatility. His role as young Adonis Creed in "Creed III" catapulted him to wider recognition, but his journey is paved with diverse appearances in films like "South of Heaven" (2021), "Safety," and "Candy Cane Lane" (2023), and television series such as "Reasonable Doubt" and "The Wonder Years." Beyond the screen, Mixson's commitment to charity work and his BET Award nomination highlight his dedication to making a positive impact, both on and off-screen.

Category	Information
Full Name	Thaddeus James Mixson Jr.
Also Known As	Papa J
Date of Birth	January 19, 2008
Age	16 (as of October 26, 2024)
Nationality	American
Occupation	Actor, Rapper, Dancer, Singer
Early Career	"Baby Talk" (age 5), "Little Big Shots" (age 7)
Notable Roles	Young Adonis Creed in "Creed III", Nick Carver in "Candy Cane Lane", Spenser Stewart in "Reasonable Doubt", Demetrius Daniels in "The Madness"
Filmography Highlights	"Creed III" (2023), "Candy Cane Lane" (2023), "South of Heaven" (2021), "Safety", "The Madness"
TV Show Highlights	"Reasonable Doubt", "The Wonder Years", "Little Big Shots"
Parents	Chris and Carol Mixson
Father's Role	Teejay, helped develop his entertainment career from a young age, CEO of One Luv Entertainment TV/Film/Music, Manager
Awards & Nominations	BET Award Nomination, NAACP Image Awards Nomination (for "The Madness" in 2025)
Charity Work	Face of Kids Lives Matter charity
Talents	Acting, Rapping, Dancing, Singing
Management	One Luv Entertainment
Associated With	Michael B. Jordan (professional connection, mutual admiration)
Website	Thaddeus J. Mixson on IMDb

Thaddeus J. Mixson’s journey began under the watchful eye of his father, Teejay, who recognized and nurtured his son's burgeoning talents early on. As the CEO of One Luv Entertainment TV/Film/Music, Teejay has been instrumental in guiding Mixson’s career, serving as both a father figure and a manager. This close parental support has allowed Mixson to flourish, taking on diverse roles and honing his skills across various artistic disciplines. His parents, Chris and Carol, have also been central to his upbringing, providing the stability and encouragement needed to navigate the demanding world of entertainment.

The young actor's breakthrough role as young Adonis Creed in "Creed III" was a pivotal moment, showcasing his ability to embody complex characters and deliver compelling performances. His portrayal of Nick Carver in "Candy Cane Lane" further cemented his reputation as a versatile actor, capable of handling both dramatic and comedic roles. In this movie, Mixson portrays the middle child of Chris and Carol, grappling with academic challenges, particularly in mathematics, adding a relatable layer to his character. His role as Spenser Stewart in "Reasonable Doubt" demonstrates his range, tackling more mature themes and showcasing his dramatic depth.

Mixson's filmography is a testament to his dedication and hard work. He has appeared in a variety of projects, including "South of Heaven," a film starring Jason Sudeikis as a recently paroled man whose plans to marry his terminally ill fiancée, played by Evangeline Lilly, are disrupted. Mixson's presence alongside seasoned actors like Michael Paré and Amaury Nolasco underscores his rising star power. In "The Madness," Mixson plays Demetrius Daniels, a teenager navigating a strained relationship with his father while living apart with his mother. This role earned him a nomination for a NAACP Image Award in 2025, highlighting his impact and recognition within the industry.

Beyond his acting credits, Mixson is also making waves as a rapper and dancer. His early appearances on "Little Big Shots" provided a platform to showcase these talents, and he continues to integrate music and dance into his artistic expression. Known as Papa J in the music world, Mixson is developing his unique sound and style, further expanding his creative horizons. This multifaceted approach positions him as a true triple threat, capable of excelling in various aspects of the entertainment industry.

Thaddeus J. Mixson's commitment to giving back is evident through his involvement with the Kids Lives Matter charity. As the face of this organization, he uses his platform to raise awareness and support for children in need, demonstrating a strong sense of social responsibility. This dedication to philanthropy reflects his values and his desire to make a positive impact on the world beyond the realm of entertainment.

While some might assume a familial connection between Mixson and Michael B. Jordan, particularly given their roles in the "Creed" franchise, they are not related by blood. However, their professional relationship is built on mutual respect and admiration, further solidifying Mixson's standing within the industry. The mentorship and support he receives from established actors like Jordan contribute to his ongoing growth and development as an artist.

Exploring Mixson's filmography reveals a diverse range of projects, each adding a new dimension to his artistic repertoire. From his early roles to his recent successes, he has consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence and a willingness to take on challenging characters. His performances in "Creed III," "Candy Cane Lane," "Safety," "South of Heaven," "Reasonable Doubt," and "The Wonder Years" showcase his versatility and his ability to connect with audiences on multiple levels. Whether portraying a young athlete, a struggling student, or a complex teenager, Mixson brings authenticity and depth to each role.

His portrayal of Nick Carver in "Candy Cane Lane" offers a glimpse into the challenges and aspirations of a young musician. As the middle child of Chris and Carol, Nick grapples with his academic struggles while pursuing his passion for music. This relatable storyline resonates with audiences of all ages, highlighting the importance of following one's dreams despite obstacles. Madison Thomas plays Holly Carver, the youngest daughter of Chris and Carol, adding another layer of familial dynamics to the film. Nick Offerman, as Pip, provides a memorable performance, showcasing his versatility as an actor and voice artist. The film itself explores themes of family, perseverance, and the power of belief, making it a heartwarming and entertaining experience for viewers.

Mixson's role as Spenser Stewart in "Reasonable Doubt" demonstrates his ability to tackle more mature and complex characters. This legal drama explores themes of justice, morality, and the complexities of the legal system. Mixson's performance adds depth and nuance to the storyline, showcasing his ability to handle challenging material with sensitivity and skill.

The trajectory of Thaddeus J. Mixson’s career is marked by remarkable momentum, particularly evident in his compelling performances in recent years. He embodies a natural talent that is captivating audiences, and his career has evolved from promising newcomer to established young talent. Each project has added new layers to his artistic expression. For example, "The Madness" sees Mixson as Demetrius Daniels, a teenage son grappling with a strained relationship with his father. His portrayal in this series highlights Mixson’s acting range and his capacity to portray genuine emotion.

Mixson's dedication to his craft, combined with his natural talent and strong support system, positions him for continued success in the entertainment industry. As he continues to evolve as an actor, rapper, and dancer, he is sure to captivate audiences with his versatility and his unwavering commitment to excellence. From his early beginnings on "Baby Talk" to his current projects, Thaddeus J. Mixson is proving that he is a force to be reckoned with, a young talent with a bright future ahead.

The young star's ascent is not without its nuances; his roles often portray characters facing real-world challenges. In "Candy Cane Lane," for example, Mixson's character struggles academically, resonating with many young viewers facing similar hurdles. This ability to portray relatable characters contributes to his widespread appeal and his connection with audiences on a personal level.

His presence in the entertainment landscape has transitioned him from a promising newcomer to an established young talent, where each project contributes new aspects to his artistic repertoire. In "South of Heaven," Mixson’s participation highlights his ability to work alongside seasoned actors, demonstrating the growth of his skills. His performances, whether in film or television, show a continuous development of his acting prowess, gaining more recognition with each project.

Thaddeus J. Mixson's influence extends to his role as an inspiration for younger generations, particularly within his community. As a visible and successful young African American artist, he serves as a role model, demonstrating the possibilities that exist with dedication and hard work. His commitment to charity and his positive attitude further enhance his influence, making him a respected figure both on and off-screen.

Mixson's talent and drive suggest that he is destined for even greater achievements in the years to come, and his future projects are highly anticipated by fans and industry insiders alike. His journey is one of passion, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence, making him a true rising star in the entertainment world.

Ultimately, Thaddeus J. Mixson is more than just an actor, rapper, and dancer; he is a multifaceted artist with a vision. His commitment to his craft, his dedication to giving back, and his unwavering pursuit of excellence make him a true inspiration. As he continues to evolve and grow, he is sure to leave an indelible mark on the entertainment industry and beyond. From his performances on screen to his philanthropic endeavors, Thaddeus J. Mixson is a young man with a purpose, and his journey is just beginning.

Thaddeus j mixson actor hi res stock photography and images Alamy

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Photo Thaddeus J. Mixson Attends the Premiere of "Candy Cane Lane" in

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Thaddeus J. Mixson attends the BET Awards 2023 at Microsoft Theater

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