In 2025, actor John Wells returns to the big screen with Merry Christmas, Elijah, a heartfelt, faith-based film directed by Tyler Sansom and produced by First Capital Films. Known for his gritty, action-packed roles in independent cinema, John Wells is proving he’s much more than just a tough guy. At his core, he’s a dedicated father, a disciplined artist, and a passionate advocate for Autism education and acceptance.
With an unwavering commitment to his craft, John blends physical intensity with emotional depth, earning him the epithet of “Warrior Poet” among peers. In Merry Christmas, Elijah, he steps into a more vulnerable and introspective role, offering audiences a story about faith, family, and the power of hope.
John Wells: More Than Just an Action Hero
I’m often more regarded for my brooding physical roles in indie films, but my journey as an artist has always been about depth, exploration, and authenticity. Every project I take on is a reflection my belief in hard work and emotional truth.
In Merry Christmas, Elijah, I get to traverse themes that are personal to me—connection, redemption, and what it means to find light in the darkest times. This movie is more than just another project; it’s a personal message of hope, reminding audiences that even when life feels overwhelming, we’re never truly alone. I feel privileged to be a part of it
A Life Built on Discipline and Commitment
I believe that success—whether in acting, parenting, or life—comes down to self discipline. That mindset shapes everything I do. When I take on a role, I fully commit—mind, body, and soul.
That same dedication I try to apply to all things beyond the screen as well. I’m a fitness enthusiast and a long-time student of Stoic philosophy. These practices keep me grounded and prepared, both physically and mentally. Stoicism teaches that while I can’t control external circumstances, I can control how I respond. That mindset allows me to face challenges with accountability and a degree of optimism.
Whether I’m preparing for a physically demanding role or guiding my children through life, I believe in leading by example. My endeavors for growth and self-improvement aren’t just about my career—it’s about trying to become a better human being every day. At the end of the day, I want to be the kind of man my children deserve as a father.
What It Means to Be a Called “Warrior Poet”
I don’t really know-I just believe in balancing strength with sensitivity, and how that’s perceived by other people is up to them. But for me, life is about embracing both the physical and the emotional— genuine humanity, the courage of honest vulnerability, and pushing limits beyond comfort in order to grow.
I’ve forced my body through rigorous training because it’s the tool I use to tell stories. But I also strive to cultivate my mind and heart because, ultimately, acting is about expressing the human experience. Love, loss, and redemption—these are universal truths that connect us all.
Merry Christmas, Elijah, was opportunity to bring that philosophy to life. It’s a story that parallels some of my own battles and reflects my belief that no matter how broken or lost we may feel, there is always a way back to the people and values that matter most.
Acting Is Just the Beginning
Acting is my profession, but I try not to let it be the only thing that defines me. I’m also a proud father, musician, acting coach, and a vocal advocate for Autism education and acceptance.
Parenting is of course the most important role I’ll ever play. My children don’t care about how many movies I’ve been in—they care about who I am when at home. That’s why I strive to be someone they can look up to—a man who values honesty, discipline, and compassion.
My advocacy for Autism education is deeply personal, being a father of an autistic son. I believe in using whatever platform I may have to voice knowledge, acceptance, and understanding for my boy, our family, and those many who are similar.
Merry Christmas, Elijah: A Story That Matters
When I first read the script for Merry Christmas, Elijah, I knew it was a story I wanted to help tell. Directed by Tyler Sansom and produced by First Capital Films, the movie delivers a powerful message about hope and human connection—themes that resonate deeply with me from my own journey with my son.
This isn’t your typical holiday film. It’s about second chances, faith, and finding comfort in the people we love. It’s the kind of story many need—a reminder that even when the world feels cold, we can always find warmth in community and compassion.
I try to approach every role with intensity and dedication, but this one obviously holds a special place in my heart. My hope is that when audiences watch Merry Christmas, Elijah, they feel seen, understood, and—most importantly—a little less alone.
A Legacy of Purpose and Passion
For me, acting has never been about chasing fame—it’s about doing the work itself. Expression, connection, and celebrating humanity in it’s many facets and complexities. If my work resonates or leaves any kind of legacy—I hope it’s one that reflects perseverance, sincerity, and love and respect for others. I hope to entertain, but if I can emotionally connect to a few in an audience somewhere and make them feel something real-that’s beautiful thing to me. That’s success in my craft.
As Merry Christmas, Elijah prepares for its nationwide release in the 2025 holiday season, I’m filled with gratitude. Gratitude for the people who’ve supported me, for the growth I’ve experienced along the way, and for the opportunity to do what I love.
If there’s one thing I’ve learned from this path, it’s that strength isn’t physical—it’s the mind’s drive to push on, to stay true to yourself and your loved ones, having the courage to be sincere, to lift others up along the way, and to share the beauty of art and life with one another as we experience this world together.
Thank you for joining me on this journey. I’ll see you soon.