About Jesse

Jesse Williams (born August 5, 1981) is an American actor and model. He is known for his role as Dr. Jackson Avery on the ABC series Grey’s Anatomy and as Lena’s boyfriend Leo in the film sequel The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2. He also stars in the upcoming Joss Whedon horror film The Cabin in the Woods.

He was born in Chicago, Illinois to a Swedish mother and an African American father. Jesse Williams graduated from Temple University with degrees in African American Studies and Film & Media Arts. He taught American Studies, African Studies and English at a Philadelphia public high school following a brief modeling career in college.