SAM J. JONES | 67

Remember the 1980 film, Flash Gordon? Sam J. Jones portrayed the title character. But that’s not all; Jones actually beat Arnold Schwarzenegger and Kurt Russell for that role. He must be so good during his audition at that time. He started his career by appearing in TV commercials before he entered the film industry. Flash Gordon garnered success, and Jones subsequently landed roles in many TV shows until the late 90s. He was also credited in the comedy film, Ted, and its sequel, and appeared in cameos as himself. Recently, he starred in his own documentary entitled Life After Flash.

In his earlier life, Jones was born in Chicago but grew up in Sacramento. After he graduated high school in 1972, he enlisted in the US Marine Corps where he played American football. When he completed the service in the Corps, Jones moved to Seattle with his goal in joining Seahawks, however he was turned down.