Jeffrey Carlson was born on June 23, 1975, in Long Beach, California. He showed an interest in the performing arts from a young age, participating in school plays and local theater productions. After graduating from high school, Carlson pursued his passion for acting by enrolling at the University of California, Davis, where he earned a degree in theatre.
Following his undergraduate studies, Carlson moved to New York City to further his training at the prestigious Juilliard School, where he honed his skills and prepared for a career on the stage.
After completing his studies at Juilliard, Carlson began making a name for himself in the theater world. He landed roles in various productions off-Broadway and regionally, showcasing his talent and versatility as an actor. His dedication to his craft paid off when he was cast in the Broadway production of The Goat or Who is Sylvia? and Tartuffe, earning critical acclaim for his performances.
Carlson's big break came in 2006 when he was cast as the transgendered character Zarf on the long-running soap opera All My Children. His portrayal of Zarf garnered praise for its depth and authenticity, shining a spotlight on trans representation in the media. Carlson's compelling performance captivated audiences and helped bring important conversations about gender identity to the forefront.
Throughout his career, Carlson appeared in over 50 episodes of television, showcasing his range as an actor in various roles. In addition to his work on television, he continued to make a name for himself on the Broadway stage, earning a Drama Desk Award nomination for his performance in the musical Taboo.
Despite his professional success, Carlson faced personal challenges, including health issues that ultimately led to his untimely passing at the age of 48. He left behind a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry, remembered for his talent, dedication, and contributions to the arts.
Jeffrey Carlson's impact on the world of entertainment continues to be felt, inspiring future generations of actors and artists to embrace their true selves and tell important stories on stage and screen.