Born and raised in NJ , Shawn Michael quickly found his pull to the Arts. Finding his passion and element was evident after the 7th grade classic " We Three Kings" .Musically influenced by his Dad singing"the oldies" and his brother a singer/songwriter , At 19, Shawn turned down his first record deal only to sign, write and release 2 singles which were featured on the Billboard Dance charts in the 90's. At 21, he became a member of ASCAP. He also took a 8 yr DJ turn which kept him behind the music .In the transition back to Acting he quickly established a presence on many NY Film & TV sets. He landed his first role in indie thriller"Alphabet Killer" (which includes the talents of (Oscar Winner ) Melissa Leo (TheFighter) Cary Elwes & Eliza Dushku.His Talent continues to keep him a more versatile casting option. Playing slightly dominating types, volatile, angry, often sociopathic law enforcement and blue collar, his characters trend to the the urban, edgy and stubborn. He studies with some of NY/LA finest acting coaches and studios.Shawn founded Elevated Pictures in New Orleans and quickly found himself a connecting bridge between talent and skill in putting projects together on occasion . As an Actor / Producer it was a natural fit. He has worked with a range of talent on and off screen.He is a self-taught trader of stocks & commodities. Show less «