Marc Evan Jackson
Actor
About Marc Evan Jackson
Marc Evan Jackson: Buffalo’s Comedy Maestro
Buffalo, NY, a city brimming with creativity, resilience, and a good sense of humor, has been the birthplace of many talented individuals who have gone on to accomplish great things. One such gem is Marc Evan Jackson, born on August 21, 1970. Known for his impeccable comedic timing, distinctive voice, and charm, Marc has carved out a unique space in the world of entertainment. His story is one of laughter, hard work, and the undeniable influence of growing up in the City of Good Neighbors.
Even as his star has risen, Marc has continued to give back to the Buffalo and greater Rochester area communities. He recognizes the importance of local arts and education—values he carries from his own upbringing in a city that encourages creativity to flourish.
Growing Up in Buffalo
Marc Evan Jackson was born and raised in Buffalo, a place where community bonds are strong, winters are unapologetic, and the arts thrive in unexpected ways. Growing up in this blue-collar city, Marc was immersed in Buffalo’s culture of creativity and resilience. From its historic theaters to its vibrant neighborhoods, Buffalo always has had a way of inspiring those willing to dream big.
Marc’s sense of humor and creativity were evident early on. Whether he was cracking jokes with friends or observing the quirks of daily life in Buffalo, Marc had a natural gift for storytelling. The city also instilled in him an appreciation for hard work and authenticity—traits that would later shape his career in profound ways.
From Buffalo to the World Stage
After his time in Buffalo, Marc pursued a degree in philosophy at Calvin College in Michigan. Although philosophy may seem miles away from comedy, the critical thinking and analytical skills he developed would serve him well as he worked to hone his craft as a performer.
After college, Marc entered the improv world, starting with the renowned improv training grounds at The Second City and ImprovOlympic in Chicago. These were pivotal experiences that helped him develop his comedic voice and set him on the path to a successful acting career.
Before fully committing to acting, Marc also worked as a deckhand on private yachts, a career move as unorthodox as it was fitting for someone with his adventurous spirit! True to his Buffalo roots, Marc wasn’t afraid to step off the beaten path to find his niche.
Hollywood Comes Calling
Marc Evan Jackson is perhaps best known for his unforgettable roles in hit comedy series. Whether he’s playing the hilariously stoic Shawn in The Good Place, the lovable and somewhat infuriating Kevin Cozner on Brooklyn Nine-Nine, or the sarcastic attorney Trevor Nelsson in Parks and Recreation, Marc has a remarkable ability to bring characters to life in memorable ways.
His sharp comedic delivery and deadpan humor have made him a standout in the world of television comedy. He doesn’t just play the jokes—he becomes them, blending his Buffalo-honed authenticity with the craft he sharpened in the improv scene.
Marc’s distinctive voice has also made him a sought-after voice actor, lending his talents to animated series like Transformers Prime and video games such as Mass Effect 2. The variety in his work showcases his versatility as a performer and his willingness to explore new creative territories.
Buffalo’s Influence on Marc
Throughout his career, Marc has remained deeply tied to his Buffalo roots. There’s a grounding quality to Marc’s presence—an authenticity that fans and peers alike find endearing. It’s a testament to the lessons he learned growing up in Buffalo, where resilience, community, and an appreciation for life’s little absurdities are part of the cultural fabric.
Buffalo’s unique balance of grit and humor undoubtedly influenced Marc’s comedic style. The city’s ability to find warmth in even the harshest winters and its residents’ knack for turning challenges into jokes reflect the same qualities Marc brings to his performances.
Though Hollywood might seem a world away from Buffalo, Marc has shown that the heart and humor cultivated in a place like the City of Good Neighbors can resonate everywhere. Today, Buffalonians continue to cheer for Marc—not just because of his success, but because of the integrity, warmth, and laughter he brings to every role and every stage.
Beyond Comedy
Marc Evan Jackson wears many hats beyond acting. He co-founded the Detroit Creativity Project, which helps underserved youth in Detroit access improv classes to develop confidence, communication, and creativity. His passion for mentorship and community-building highlights the values instilled in him by growing up in a city like Buffalo, where neighbors help neighbors and creativity is cherished as a communal good.
Marc has also become a beloved host for live podcasts and events, showcasing not just his wit but also his genuine curiosity and love for collaboration. His dedication to fostering community, both on and off the screen, proves that he’s not just a talented actor but also a stellar human being.
Buffalo’s Beloved Son
For Buffalonians, Marc Evan Jackson is much more than an actor. He’s a reminder of what people from Buffalo can achieve when they commit to their passions and lean into the values of their hometown. Born on August 21, 1970, Marc’s story is one of perseverance, creativity, and, above all, humor.
From his early days in Buffalo to his work on hit comedies and community projects, Marc Evan Jackson has made his mark on the world while staying true to the roots that shaped him. His career serves as an inspiration to aspiring performers and anyone looking to make their dreams a reality.
Here’s to Marc Evan Jackson, a hometown hero who proves that being funny, kind, and hardworking can take you far—without ever leaving behind where you came from.