Jim Lauten

Jim was born in Columbus, Ohio to parents Rita and Maury Lautenslager. He is one of 8 children. His father was an engineer and was transferred to Dallas when Jim was eight. He studied for the priesthood for 9 years starting in High School, followed by the Novitiate, and then 4 years college in Perryville, Missouri where he received a degree in philosophy and psychology. He left the seminary and attended SMU's Graduate Theatre program. He moved to NY shortly after to continue Acting, Voice, and Dance studies. He has an extensive background as a stage actor including such roles as Bassanio in "The Merchant of Venice", Matt in "The Fantastiks", and Magaldi in "Evita". He modeled for several years in Dallas for Kim Dawson Agency and the Sarah Norton Agency. Fun facts: His great uncle, Wilmer Isabel, scored the first touchdown at "The horseshoe"...Ohio State University. His younger brother Greg competed 4 times in the trials for the Olympic Games in both the 5K & 10K. He is a direct lineage (on his Mother's side) to Charles the 5th of France. He performed with the folk group "The Vanguards" in High School as a singer and guitarist. In college, he played drums in the 5-piece pop/rock band "E.A.R." He is an avid golfer and carries a 12 handicap. He was a catcher in baseball on his high school team, and QB on his intramural team in college. He is a carpenter and painter having owned and operated Malibu Painting and Remodeling. He is an animal rights activist. His bible: "It is never OK to be disrespectful or rude to anyone!"