John West Jr. isn’t your typical Hollywood figure. As the CEO of JWE Entertainment, he’s built a career on hard work, independence, and a commitment to giving fresh talent a shot. Based in Los Angeles, West has been in the business since the late 1990s—but his path to the entertainment world was anything but traditional.
A former professional football player, West found himself drawn into TV and film thanks to his close friend Robert Lawrence, the brother of comedy legend Martin Lawrence. That connection led to early roles on hit shows like MARTIN and New York Undercover, giving him a first-hand look at the industry. But acting wasn’t enough—West wanted to create.
From Actor to Independent Filmmaker
West took matters into his own hands with his first independent film, BARBEQ, which he not only starred in but also funded, produced, and distributed himself. The film featured West alongside rapper Layzie Bone and an unknown actor at the time—Omari Hardwick—who played Pretty Ricky. Years before Hardwick became a household name as “Ghost” on the hit TV series Power, West saw his potential and gave him a platform.
In an era before social media made self-promotion easier, West was already building a name for himself through sheer hustle and vision. Over the years, he’s quietly built a vault of films while maintaining a reputation for supporting serious actors and actresses looking for their break.
The Next Chapter: “NO LUV” & “SMOKE RELOADED”
Now, West is back with two new projects that are already generating serious industry buzz—NO LUV and SMOKE RELOADED. Both films are produced in collaboration with his longtime friend Robert Lawrence, and they promise to deliver gripping stories with high-energy performances.
NO LUV is a twisted drama about a man caught between twin sisters—one of whom is plotting to kill the other. West plays Jason, a man pulled into a web of deception and manipulation that keeps the audience guessing. It’s a wild, unpredictable ride that blends suspense with raw emotion.
Meanwhile, SMOKE RELOADED flips the script on the typical crime thriller. This high-octane film follows a group of female police officers who use their insider knowledge to pull off violent armed robberies while keeping law enforcement—and the FBI—completely in the dark. Directed by Miami-based filmmaker Segrin Phillips (@sogorillaempire), the film promises fast-paced action and a fresh take on the genre.
The SMOKE RELOADED cast is stacked with talent, including:
- Karla Monay Shaw (@karlamonayis)
- Neecy J (@itsneecyj)
- Candice “SiSi” Bennett (@sisi_the_great_2)
- Paris Taylor (@thimslick_mz.paris)
West himself takes a key role in the film, alongside a handpicked ensemble:
- Marco Gonzales (@marcogonzalezforeal)
- DJ Hershey (@iamcoredjhershey)
- Quanita A. Smith (@unodarkandlovely71)
- Deoineta Hightower (@project_nut929)
- Charles Jackson (@atl_fathead)
- Demarcus Jackson (@real__demarcus – with two underscores)
- Dalisha Taylor (@melanin_perfection34)
- Razsa (@actress_razsa)
- Tiffani Michele (@iamtiffanimichele)
- NIA (@stardancer66)
- Ceddy J (@ceddyjdusk)
With early pre-production underway, SMOKE RELOADED is shaping up to be one of West’s most ambitious projects yet.
Bianca E. West: Carving Her Own Path
While John West Jr. continues to push boundaries, his daughter, Bianca E. West, is stepping into the spotlight in her own right. She’s already making waves with her first film, SNATCHED, which is currently in post-production.
The movie is based on the real-life experiences of a close friend, who brought the story to Bianca. With her father’s guidance, Bianca not only took on the lead role but helped shape the emotional depth of the project. By all accounts, her performance delivers a powerful and authentic portrayal.
Beyond acting, Bianca is also finding success as a model—landing work with major brands like Macy’s—and in music. Her debut single, TRU FACTS, a motivational hip-hop track, is already streaming on major platforms.
Despite her growing career, Bianca keeps a low profile. Those close to her know her as a “daddy’s girl” who remains grounded and focused, thanks to the lessons she’s learned from her father.
What’s Next for the Wests?
With NO LUV, SMOKE RELOADED, and SNATCHED on the horizon, John and Bianca E. West are proving that talent runs in the family. John’s dedication to authentic storytelling and his ability to navigate the industry on his own terms make him a rare figure in Hollywood, while Bianca’s early success hints at a bright future ahead.
As John continues to break down barriers and Bianca carves out her own space in the entertainment world, one thing is clear—the West legacy is just getting started.
Follow their journey:
- John West Jr. (@westjrjohn_ent)
- Bianca E. West (@westjohn_ent)
