If there is one thing people notice immediately about Anakin Williams, it’s his name.
Yes, it’s really Anakin. Named by parents who are lifelong Star Wars fans, Anakin has grown up surrounded by stories of heroes, adventure, and larger-than-life characters. Today, those same stories have inspired him to pursue a career in acting, with dreams of one day joining the worlds of DC, Marvel, Lucasfilm, or any franchise that brings unforgettable heroes to life.
Originally from Missouri, Anakin is a self-described family man who enjoys spending time with his parents, staying active in the gym, experimenting with recipes in the kitchen, and constantly working to become the best version of himself.
After attending iPOP!, he’s more motivated than ever to turn those dreams into reality.
Inspired by the Magic of Storytelling
For Anakin, the spark came while watching the press tour for Spider-Man: Far From Home.
He became fascinated not only by the film itself, but by watching Tom Holland, Zendaya, and Jacob Batalon interact during interviews.
“Their chemistry and the way they laughed together really brightened my day.”
Watching those interviews showed him that acting wasn’t simply about performing on screen.
It was about building friendships, creating unforgettable stories, and sharing experiences with audiences around the world. That realization confirmed what he already suspected. Acting was something he wanted to pursue professionally.
A Life-Changing Opportunity
Shortly after signing with Model and Talent Management (MTM) following his graduation from John Casablancas, Anakin received an invitation to audition for iPOP!. Out of approximately 200 performers attending the online audition, he was one of only nine to receive a callback. After watching the event presentation, he knew immediately that he wanted to be part of it. Looking back, however, his favorite memories weren’t necessarily the performances everyone else saw.
They happened backstage.
“There was a group of us helping each other with scripts, practicing our runway walks, and just making memories together.”
He also made the most of every educational opportunity available, attending every seminar and masterclass he could alongside his mother. For Anakin, iPOP! became just as much about learning as it was performing.
The Ultimate Superhero Dream
Ask Anakin about his dream role, and the answer comes instantly. Robin. Not just one version, either. He dreams of portraying the full journey, from Robin to Red Hood, particularly the character of Jason Todd.
“My brother Marcus always said he was Batman and I was Robin.”
That childhood connection grew into a lifelong admiration for the character. Anakin believes portraying both Jason Todd’s optimistic side as Robin and his darker transformation into Red Hood would be one of the most rewarding acting challenges imaginable. If that opportunity didn’t come first, he’d happily jump into the world of Peacemaker, Marvel, Star Wars, or virtually any major superhero franchise.
Always Working to Improve
Outside of acting, Anakin is constantly setting new challenges for himself. One of his proudest recent accomplishments came through an incredible fitness transformation. Together with his father, he committed to an intensive health journey that completely changed his lifestyle. Over several months, he reduced his body fat dramatically while increasing his strength and muscle mass through discipline, consistency, and hard work. The experience reinforced a lesson he already believed. Progress comes from showing up every day. Whether in the gym or on set, Anakin approaches every goal with the same level of commitment.
More Than an Actor
Before pursuing acting full-time, Anakin worked as a server, an experience that unexpectedly developed another valuable skill. Communication. He believes those years taught him how to connect with people, think quickly, and confidently present ideas. He’s also an enthusiastic improviser, enjoys playing guitar, and recently discovered a new hobby, recreating outrageous recipes he finds on TikTok.
One of his favorite creations?
A towering combination featuring pizza, tacos, fried chicken, burgers, and fries.
“It was incredibly fun to make… just maybe not the healthiest thing to eat.”
Inspired by Family
When asked who inspires him most, Anakin’s answer isn’t limited to one person. He calls them his “Big Three.” His mother, whose incredible work ethic motivates him every day. His father, who shares his love of fitness and always offers thoughtful advice. And John Cena. Anakin has admired Cena for years, not only for his career, but for his generosity and positivity.
“Never Give Up” and “Rise Above Hate” have become personal mottos that continue guiding him both professionally and personally.
Playing Bigger Than Yesterday
One saying has remained with Anakin since his days playing football.
“Play bigger than you are.”
Originally used by coaches to encourage players to compete with confidence and physicality, Anakin has transformed the phrase into something much more personal. Today, it reminds him to become a better version of himself every single day. When asked to describe himself in one word, his answer is simple. Pure. He believes authenticity matters more than trying to impress people.
“I’ll always be myself.”
And if he had to choose three words? Genuine. Devoted. Honorable. Those are the qualities he hopes define both his career and the person he becomes.
Looking Ahead
Over the next year, Anakin hopes to book his first professional opportunities in commercials, modeling, film, or television. He understands every successful career begins with one role, and he’s eager to take that first step. His advice to other aspiring performers reflects the same philosophy he lives by.
“Always be yourself. People want to know who you really are—not someone pretending to be somebody else.”
When asked how he’d like people to remember him, Anakin doesn’t mention superheroes or Hollywood. Instead, he hopes people see someone who loves his family, works hard, stays honest, and never forgets where he came from.
“I’m just a kid from Missouri following his dreams.”
For Anakin Williams, those dreams may include Batman, Robin, or even a galaxy far, far away.
But no matter where his journey leads, one thing remains certain, he’s determined to play every role bigger than yesterday.
To find out more about Anakin Williams visit his Facebook and Instagram @officialanakinwilliams
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