Garrett Wareing: A Relentless Talent Shaping His Own Hollywood Path

Garrett Wareing has been quietly but steadily carving out a distinctive space in Hollywood—one defined by discipline, creative curiosity, and a willingness to transform for his craft. Born on August 31, 2001, in College Station, Texas, Wareing is an American actor, writer, and director whose career began at an age when most are only discovering their ambitions. Rising to prominence at just 13, he has evolved into a versatile performer with a growing body of work across film, television, and independent storytelling.

Early Life and the Decision to Dream Bigger

Wareing’s passion for acting emerged during his middle school years, where an early fascination with performance quickly became a calling. Recognizing his dedication and potential, his family made the pivotal decision to relocate to Los Angeles, allowing him to pursue professional training and auditions at a young age. There, he honed his craft under the guidance of respected acting coach Max Decker at CM Acting Studio, building a foundation rooted in emotional authenticity and technical precision.

A Breakthrough at Thirteen

Wareing’s major breakthrough came in 2014 with Boychoir, a poignant drama that placed him alongside cinematic heavyweights Dustin Hoffman and Kathy Bates. His performance earned critical attention and marked him as a young actor of remarkable depth. That same role brought him the Creative Coalition Spotlight Initiative Award at the Toronto International Film Festival—an early accolade that underscored both his promise and presence.

Expanding His Screen Legacy

Following Boychoir, Wareing continued to build a diverse filmography. He appeared in the blockbuster Independence Day: Resurgence (2016), followed by the psychological thriller Perfect (2018), a role that demanded intense physical commitment. Demonstrating rare dedication, Wareing lost 30 pounds and shaved his head to fully embody the character—an early sign of the transformative approach that defines his work.

In 2023, he took on a darker, more complex role in God Is a Bullet, further showcasing his ability to navigate challenging narratives with emotional intensity and restraint.

Television Recognition and a Global Audience

On television, Wareing is best known for portraying TJ Morrison in seasons 2 and 4 of Netflix’s hit series Manifest (2020–2023). The role introduced him to a global audience and solidified his standing as a compelling presence in long-form storytelling. He also appeared as Zach in Pretty Little Liars: The Perfectionists, adding another layer to his television résumé.

Looking Ahead: The Next Chapter

Wareing’s momentum shows no signs of slowing. He is set to appear in Ransom Canyon (2025), as well as the highly anticipated adaptation The Long Walk, positioning him firmly among a new generation of actors transitioning seamlessly into mature, leading roles.

Beyond Acting: A Creative Voice

In addition to his on-screen work, Wareing has stepped behind the camera as a writer and director. His 2022 project, The Difficulties of Being Drunk Alone, reflects a deeply personal and introspective creative voice—one that signals his intent to shape stories, not just perform in them.

Recognition and Early Honors

Even before his acting career took off, Wareing was recognized for his presence and potential. In 2013, he was named Pre-Teen Male Model of the Year by the International Modeling and Talent Association (IMTA), a testament to his early versatility in the entertainment industry.

A Career Defined by Commitment

From a small-town beginning in Texas to international screens, Garrett Wareing’s journey is marked by courage, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to growth. Whether transforming physically for a role, expanding into writing and directing, or choosing projects that challenge convention, he continues to build a career driven by intention rather than speed.

As he enters the next phase of his artistic evolution, Garrett Wareing stands not just as a former child star, but as a fully realized creative force—one determined to leave a lasting imprint on contemporary cinema and television.