Things to know about Nicholas Velez from ‘Judas and the Black Messiah’
Meet Nicholas Velez, the actor playing the legendary José Cha Cha Jiménez in Judas and the Black Messiah. Directed by Shaka King, the blockbuster earned six Oscar nominations this year and is making history with an all Black producer crew: King, Charles D. King, and Ryan Coogler. Nicholas joins the cast in his role as Cha Cha alongside leads Daniel Kaluuya and LaKeith Stanfield. Before the film, the Puerto Rican actor starred in TV series such as New York Undercover, The Deuce, Bull, and Gotham. Ahead are facts to know about the rising star on his upbringing, family connections, and more. Be sure to stream Judas and the Black Messiah on HBO Max this month.
Breakout Role
In the film Judas and the Black Messiah, Velez plays the Young Lords’ legendary founder, José Cha Cha Jiménez, who partnered with the Black Panther Party. “I have a ton of pride and admiration to play a real activist who is still alive today. Before going on set, I was able to speak to Cha Cha Jimenez and study his persona. I’ll never forget the chills I got when he told me, this is my moment, and now you go out there and make it yours,” Velez told LatinaWatch.
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Boricua & Proud
As a proud Puerto-Rican actor growing up in Far Rockaway, New York, Velez keeps his roots close to him. He remembers Saturday mornings being full of salsa music, Boricua flags within his household, and of course, the delicious meals. “My family has always taught me to be proud of my roots and to give back to the community whenever possible,” the star shared, adding, “When I found out I was playing a Puerto Rican activist, it was surreal, and I felt a huge sense of pride to represent Cha Cha and fellow Latinos watching Judas and the Black Messiah.”
Acting Runs In the Family
Growing up, Nicholas recalls being amongst creatives such as aunt and actress Luna Lauren Velez. Her notable roles are as María LaGuerta on Showtime’s Dexter, and as Lisette Linares, in the film I Like It Like That, alongside Rita Moreno and Jon Seda. “When I landed the role for Judas and the Black Messiah, my aunt gifted a book about the Young Lords to me.” Showing her excitement for the film, Luna even posted a photo of Nicholas with the caption, “When you’re Nephew is part of an incredibly important film. I watched Judas and the Black Messiah last night, and I’m still reeling from it. Beautiful and powerful performances all around. Watch this film.” Coming from a family of actors, Nicholas also credits his father, who does theater himself, for pushing me never to give up. In 2019, Nicholas’ dad, Jose J Velez, played George Wilson in The Great Gatsby production.
Basketball Player
Before hitting stages, Nicholas was shooting his shots on basketball courts. His love for the game began at a young age, which led him to compete at basketball tournaments. If he’s not practicing his lines for an upcoming project, you can find him working up a sweat on a basketball court. “I always loved basketball and I wanted to play in the NBA, so I played in high school and college,” says the actor.