Brad James: A Complete Biography and Professional Profile
Brad James is an American actor and producer best known for his roles in television and film, particularly within the Tyler Perry universe. Before his acting career took off, he served in the United States Marine Corps, a background that he credits with instilling the discipline and work ethic he applies to his creative pursuits. He is now a devoted husband and father, co-parenting with Keshia Knight Pulliam and working alongside her in various production ventures.
- Full Name: Brad James
- Date of Birth: July 7, 1981
- Age (as of 2025): 44
- Place of Birth: United States
- Occupation: Actor, Producer, Former U.S. Marine
- Notable Roles: Todd in Tyler Perry's For Better or Worse, Agent Rick Wright in Outer Banks, Todd in A House Divided, and various roles in Lifetime and TV One films.
- Spouse: Keshia Knight Pulliam (m. 2021)
- Children: Son, Knight James (born 2023); Stepdaughter, Ella Grace Hartwell (born 2017)
- Awards/Recognition: Winner of the Georgia Best Actor Award at the Georgia Entertainment Gala.
The Serendipitous Meeting on a TV Movie Set
The love story between Keshia Knight Pulliam and Brad James began, fittingly, in the world of entertainment. The two met in 2019 while working on the set of the TV movie Pride and Prejudice: Atlanta, a modern-day adaptation of the classic Jane Austen novel.
Their connection was immediate and profound, quickly moving from a professional acquaintance to a deep, romantic relationship. Keshia has often spoken about how their relationship felt different from the start, emphasizing the genuine partnership and shared values they discovered in one another. James proposed in December 2020, just over a year after they began dating, setting the stage for their next big step.
The couple married in an intimate, surprise wedding ceremony at their home in September 2021.
Building a Blended Family: Ella Grace and Knight James
One of the most heartwarming aspects of Keshia and Brad’s relationship is their dedication to creating a loving, cohesive blended family. Keshia is a mother to two children, and Brad has fully embraced his role as a stepfather and a new father.
Ella Grace Hartwell: The Eldest Daughter
Keshia’s first child is her daughter, Ella Grace Hartwell, born in January 2017 from her previous marriage to former NFL player Ed Hartwell.
The divorce and subsequent custody battle with Ed Hartwell were highly publicized and challenging for Pulliam.
However, the arrival of Brad James brought a new sense of stability and happiness to Ella's life. Brad is frequently praised by Keshia for his commitment to being a positive and supportive father figure to Ella Grace, making the transition to a blended family seamless and joyful.
Knight James: The Newest Addition
In November 2022, Keshia and Brad announced they were expecting their first child together. Their son, Knight James, was born in April 2023, expanding their family to four.
The name "Knight" is a nod to Keshia's own middle name and a unique choice that carries a strong family connection.
The couple often shares glimpses of their life on their farm, where they enjoy living "off the grid" and raising their children away from the constant glare of Hollywood, prioritizing family time and a grounded lifestyle.
Brad James's Career Beyond 'For Better or Worse'
While many fans recognize Brad James as Todd from the popular sitcom *Tyler Perry's For Better or Worse*, his career spans a wide range of genres and roles. His background as a Marine gives him a unique discipline that translates into his work, allowing him to tackle demanding roles in both film and television.
The Tyler Perry Connection
James’s breakout role came in 2011 with the premiere of *Tyler Perry's For Better or Worse*, where he played the character Todd for several seasons. This exposure to the Tyler Perry studio machine solidified his place in the Atlanta film and television community, which is also Keshia's home base.
Recent and Upcoming Projects
Brad James continues to be active in the industry. His recent work includes the 2024 thriller *Nothing Even Matters*, which demonstrates his versatility outside of comedy.
He has also appeared in other TV series and films such as *A House Divided* and various made-for-TV movies, often in the thriller or drama genres.
Jamestown Filmworks: A Joint Venture
Beyond acting, Keshia Knight Pulliam and Brad James are partners in purpose. They co-founded their own production company, Jamestown Filmworks.
This venture allows them to create their own content, giving them creative control and the opportunity to work together behind the scenes. This collaboration showcases their commitment to a shared professional life, not just a personal one.
Keshia Knight Pulliam herself is also busy with new projects, including the 2025 Lifetime thriller movie *Wife Stalker*, where she plays the lead character, Joanna.
Keshia Knight Pulliam's Past Relationship with Ed Hartwell
To fully appreciate the stability of her current marriage, it is important to understand the tumultuous nature of Keshia's previous relationship. Keshia Knight Pulliam married former NFL player Ed Hartwell in a private ceremony on New Year's Day in 2016.
The marriage was short-lived, with Hartwell filing for divorce in July 2016, just six months after the wedding and only a week after Keshia announced her pregnancy with their daughter, Ella Grace.
The subsequent divorce proceedings were messy, involving a paternity test request from Hartwell and a highly publicized custody battle.
Keshia ultimately won primary custody of Ella Grace, and the divorce was finalized, allowing her to move forward and eventually find her "partner in purpose" in Brad James.
The contrast between the drama of her first marriage and the quiet joy of her second highlights the positive direction her personal life has taken with Brad James.
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