A legacy in the making

In the heart of Liberty City, a story unfolds—one of talent, purpose, and powerful return. It’s the story of Jean Hyppolite, a son of Miami whose voice, presence, and passion have not only graced national stages but also breathed life back into the community that first sparked his love for storytelling.

Now, that story is reaching new heights.

Jean has been nominated for a Carbonell Award—South Florida’s highest theatrical honor—for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Play for his emotionally searing portrayal of Lucius Jenkins in Jesus Hopped the 'A' Train, produced by the Marshall L. Davis Sr. African Heritage Cultural Arts Center. A performance hailed for its raw intensity, depth, and vulnerability, Jean’s Lucius commanded the stage in a way that challenged, moved, and transformed audiences.

"This nomination is deeply personal," Jean shared. "Being recognized for a role as intense, raw, and deeply human as Lucius Jenkins means the world to me—not just as an actor, but as someone committed to telling stories that matter."

Jean's nomination arrives during a banner year: the Center’s 50th anniversary, marking five decades of cultivating Black artistic excellence and empowering the next generation of creatives in South Florida. The honor is also the sole Carbonell nomination for the Center this season, further spotlighting the incredible impact of community-rooted theater on the regional stage.

“Jean Hyppolite’s nomination is a proud moment for our Center,” said Marshall L. Davis Sr., Managing Director of the African Heritage Cultural Arts Center. “His performance was a masterclass in truth. As we celebrate 50 years of Black artistic excellence, seeing one of our own honored affirms our mission and legacy.”

Jean’s path to this moment is paved with discipline and heart. After earning his theatre degree from Bethune-Cookman University and an MFA in Film Acting and Screenwriting from the New York Film Academy, he trained under industry legends like Ken Lerner, Angela Robinson, and Matthew Modine. His résumé spans the works of August Wilson, Stephen Adly Guirgis, and beyond—appearing in standout productions such as Seven Guitars, The Colored Museum, A Raisin in the Sun, and Skeleton Crew.

Since returning to Miami in 2018, Jean has not only brought excellence to the stage but also off of it. As Theatre Manager at the Marshall L. Davis Sr. African Heritage Cultural Arts Center, and founder of L’Heure Productions Inc., Jean is investing in Miami’s artistic future.

"Jean doesn’t just perform—he teaches, uplifts, and ignites,” says Teddy Harrel, Theatre Director of the Joseph Caleb Auditorium. “He’s a pillar of our theater community. His work demands truth, and he brings it—every time, with every line, with every student he mentors.”

Jean’s approach to life and art is best captured in his own words:
“Luck is where opportunity meets preparation; fine-tune your craft until you encounter your luck.”

Today, we celebrate Jean Hyppolite not just as a Carbonell-nominated actor, but as a builder of dreams, a returner of blessings, and a beacon for every young artist who dares to believe that their story matters.

As he stands on the brink of the Carbonell stage this November, he carries with him more than just a nomination—he carries the hopes of a community, the spirit of a legacy, and the power of art to heal, confront, and inspire.