Jason is a multifaceted creator and storyteller. Whether in print, audio, on stage, or in film, he seeks to captivate and entertain audiences. As a novelist, screenwriter, actor, podcaster, speaker, and storyteller, he believes that a life without arts and entertainment goes against our human instincts. Our stories define us, and in his seminal novel, Time The Avenger, he engages readers with a coming-of-age Gen-X saga that proves you are never too old to seek revenge.
Born in New Jersey, Jason spent his formative years coming of age in Pennsylvania and the Garden State, with trips to the Empire State. He has lived a fascinating life, exploring the diverse locales of the Tri-State area. His storytelling specializes in capturing both the grit and glamour of the East Coast. With experiences in over forty different career roles and nearly as many addresses, Jason's writing is richly informed by his unique journey.
From bars and grills to side streets and alleyways, from college hills to boat clubs, surf clubs, and turf clubs—Jason's journey has taken him through nightclubs, gentlemen’s clubs, crash houses, and stash houses. He's navigated steakhouses, ski slopes, shores, casinos, and ball courts, gaining a unique perspective on life. From the hills of Harrisburg to the hot blocks of Harlem, he has witnessed the extraordinary stories of countless individuals. He is eternally grateful for the family, friends, and intriguing people who have influenced him. These chance encounters have bestowed upon him lifelong relationships and unwavering support. Overcoming alcoholism and addiction, Jason has transformed his life and channeled his experiences into creating original works that deeply represent the human condition.
Jason honed his craft as a member of various creative groups, including Paula Ackelson’s McCarter Shakespeare Reading Group, the Independent Association of Proofreaders, Writers, and Editors (I.A.P.W.E.), Rodney Richards' Hamilton Creative Writers Group, and Mark Violi’s Barnes & Noble of Hamilton Writers Group. He continues with Bob Ross’s Jackson Library Writing Group.
Jason studied acting at the industry-accredited studio Talent Inc. in Charlotte, North Carolina. His extensive training included acting for the camera, audition techniques, improvisation, script analysis, and character study. He studied Theatre and English at Mercer College and is experienced using professional networks such as Casting Network Inc., Mandy Network, 800 Casting, and Backstage. Beyond acting, he is skilled in voice versatility, accents, screenwriting, poetry, public speaking, and media ethics.
Making his stage debut at The Kelsey Theatre, he acted and built sets for M&M Productions' A Christmas Story The Musical and continued with the company in Scrooge The Musical. In Pierrot Productions' The Sound Of Music, he portrayed the villain Herr Zeller and took on dual roles of Pete and Phil in Odd Act Theatre Group's presentation of Almost Maine. In Bella Productions' original play The Fine Tapestry Of Motherhood, he directed his first stage production and played the romantic interest, Marcello the tile guy. He then rejoined Bella Productions and made his television debut in Central New Jersey Network's Television (CNJN) series Mama Rosalina with an appearance as The Delivery Guy.
Jason made his motion picture debut as an actor (Lorenzo) and co-writer in Christopher Davios’s faith-based film RU Serious?. He has also taken on diverse roles in corporate projects like Trap Door Escape's fully immersive experience Ripper of London, portraying both Inspector George Abberline and Jack the Ripper.
Growing up, his father's careers in delivering for a news company and working for a vending machine company ignited Jason's passion for comics, video games, and music. A lifelong musical eclectic, he enjoys all forms of music ranging from Tony Bennett to Tupac Shakur, Frank Sinatra to The Rolling Stones, and Motown to Run-DMC. An '80s kid with a profound love for the horror films from masters like Wes Craven, he draws immense inspiration from the films of Scorsese, Coppola, and Spielberg. Jason believes that seeing a great film in the cinema is one of life's best experiences and shares Quentin Tarantino's sentiment that "the movie theatre is the working man's lounge." He is also a dedicated gamer, enjoying video games from the Arcade and Atari eras to the current PS5. Additionally, Jason is an ardent Batman fan, finding inspiration in the Dark Knight's complex character and enduring legacy.
His literary influences include Edgar Allan Poe, Cormac McCarthy, Jack Ketchum, and the classic writings of Alexandre Dumas. He is also profoundly influenced by the storytelling genius of Rod Serling, creator of The Twilight Zone. In adulthood, Jason still makes it a point to ride rollercoasters, go to the movies, play video games, read great books, stay in tune with pop culture, love animals and creatures without a voice, and remain young at heart. He resides in New Jersey with his loving and supportive girlfriend, Michelle, and his pets and coauthors, Mr. Speedy and Mrs. Selina Catface.
Jason Marinko is available for book signings, writing projects, screenwriting, speaking engagements, interviews, podcasts, voice acting, on-screen roles, and emceeing events. With his versatile talent and captivating storytelling, he brings a unique and engaging presence to any event or project. For inquiries and bookings, please get in touch to explore how Jason can add his creative touch to your next venture.
