If you’re a fan of the popular Hulu series PEN15, then you’re probably already familiar with Taj Cross, the young actor who has quickly gained a following for his standout performance on the show. Although still early in his career, Taj Cross has managed to make quite an impression with his acting skills, charismatic personality, and undeniable talent. But beyond what you see on screen, there’s a lot more to learn about this rising star. In this article, we’ll dive into everything from Taj Cross’s age and career to some fun and surprising facts that may surprise even his biggest fans.
Who Is Taj Cross?
Taj Cross is an American actor best known for his role as Sam in the Hulu comedy series PEN15. The show, which premiered in 2019, is a unique take on the middle school experience. Created by and starring Maya Erskine and Anna Konkle, the two actresses portray 13-year-old versions of themselves, reliving the awkwardness of adolescence. Taj Cross plays Sam, a close friend of the two main characters, who brings an authentic portrayal of a young boy navigating his own confusing and often embarrassing teenage years. Though PEN15 is his breakthrough role, Cross’s charm and skill suggest he has a bright future ahead.
How Old Is Taj Cross?
One of the most frequently asked questions about Taj Cross is his age. Taj was born on February 11, 2004, which makes him 20 years old as of 2024. Given his youth, it’s impressive how much he’s already accomplished in the entertainment industry. Starting his acting career at a relatively young age, Cross has demonstrated that he has a natural knack for the craft, and it’s likely that his best work is still ahead of him.
Early Life and Family Background
Taj Cross grew up in a supportive family environment, which played a big role in fostering his love for acting. While details about his family life are relatively private, it’s clear that his parents have supported his passion for the arts. Taj is often described as a creative individual, and it’s said that his family encouraged his artistic ambitions from an early age.
He’s also mentioned in interviews that his love for acting started with participation in school plays and theater programs. This early exposure to performance laid the groundwork for what would become a budding acting career. While PEN15 may have given him his big break, it’s clear that Taj has been working hard on his craft for years.
The Breakthrough Role in PEN15
Before PEN15, Taj Cross had little professional acting experience. The role of Sam is notable because it was his first real break into television, and it’s no small feat to land such a pivotal role in a hit series. In PEN15, Taj’s character Sam Zablowski is an integral part of the awkward friendship trio alongside Maya and Anna, adding a unique male perspective to the highly relatable middle school struggles depicted in the show.
What makes Taj’s performance so memorable is how naturally he plays Sam. Cross portrays the emotional complexity of adolescence with ease—from Sam’s awkward interactions with his friends to his crushes and frustrations, everything feels authentic. His ability to balance humor with genuine emotion has made him a fan favorite on the show, and it’s earned him a spot as one of the standout young actors in Hollywood today.
Other Acting Projects
Since PEN15 is Taj Cross’s breakout role, there hasn’t yet been a long list of other projects that he’s appeared in, but that will likely change as he gains more recognition. While PEN15 has been a great launching pad for his career, Taj has expressed interest in expanding his acting horizons beyond television.
Cross has hinted that he would love to take on roles in films and other genres of television, such as drama and even action, to showcase his versatility as an actor. Given his natural talent and early success, it wouldn’t be surprising to see him land more diverse roles in the near future.
Taj Cross’s Personal Life and Interests
While Taj Cross remains relatively private about his personal life, there are a few interesting details that fans have gleaned from interviews and social media. When he’s not acting, Taj enjoys a variety of hobbies and interests. He has a passion for painting, something he has openly shared on social media. His Instagram feed sometimes features glimpses of his artwork, showing that his creativity extends beyond the screen.
In addition to his artistic endeavors, Taj is also quite athletic. He’s mentioned in interviews that he loves playing sports, particularly soccer, and enjoys staying active in his free time. Balancing his passion for sports and art, Taj seems to live a well-rounded life that reflects his multifaceted personality.
Future Prospects for Taj Cross
Given his talent and work ethic, the future looks bright for Taj Cross. His performance in PEN15 has already shown that he has what it takes to succeed in Hollywood, and as he continues to develop as an actor, more opportunities are sure to come his way. Whether it’s expanding into film roles or taking on more dramatic projects, Taj has the potential to become one of the most versatile actors of his generation.
There’s also the possibility that he may explore roles behind the camera. Like many actors, Taj has expressed interest in writing and directing in the future. While there’s no telling where his career will take him, it’s clear that Taj Cross is not just a one-hit-wonder. His dedication to his craft and his openness to new challenges will likely keep him in the entertainment industry for years to come.
Fun Facts About Taj Cross
To round off this deep dive into Taj Cross’s life and career, let’s explore some fun and lesser-known facts about the young actor:
- Taj Cross Was Cast in PEN15 Without Much Prior Experience
Before PEN15, Taj didn’t have any significant acting credits to his name. He essentially booked his first major role with this show, which is a remarkable achievement for any young actor. - He’s Passionate About Art
In addition to acting, Taj Cross loves painting. His passion for the visual arts is something he pursues during his free time, and he’s even shared some of his work online. - Taj Loves Sports, Especially Soccer
Taj has always been active in sports, with soccer being one of his favorites. He’s mentioned that sports help him stay balanced and provide a break from the pressures of acting. - He Enjoys Watching Animated Films
Like many young actors, Taj has a love for animation and cartoons. He’s revealed in interviews that he’s a big fan of animated films and would love to voice a character in one someday. - He’s Close with His PEN15 Co-Stars
Taj has formed a strong bond with his co-stars Maya Erskine and Anna Konkle. Despite the age difference, they’ve become good friends on set, which has helped build the natural chemistry that comes across so well in the show.
FAQs About Taj Cross
1. How old is Taj Cross?
Taj Cross was born on February 11, 2004, making him 20 years old as of 2024.
2. What TV show is Taj Cross best known for?
Taj Cross is best known for his role as Sam Zablowski in the Hulu series PEN15.
3. What are some of Taj Cross’s hobbies?
Aside from acting, Taj Cross enjoys painting and playing sports, particularly soccer. He also has a love for animated films.
