SHREVEPORT, La. — A Shreveport-raised actor is gaining recognition after contributing to one of this year’s biggest films.
Dother Sykes IV, an award-winning stunt performer, was part of the team behind “Sinners,” which won four Oscars at the 2026 Academy Awards.
Sykes, who grew up in the Shreve City area, said he originally dreamed of becoming an athlete. That path shifted during his senior year of high school after landing a commercial for the Jordan Brand.
“My first audition was for ‘Streets of Bleu’ with 50 Cent and Val Kilmer, and I’m like, ‘OK, I guess I am a good actor,’” Sykes said.
Now years into his career, Sykes has worked on a variety of major film projects. In “Sinners,” he served as a stunt performer, describing the work as physically demanding but rewarding.
“My body was definitely put to the test,” he said. “I had to flip myself onto a bar countless times. Michael B. Jordan actually did a stunt with me — he picked me up and slammed me on the bar. He really is strong.”
Fellow actor Tim Smith, who also worked on the film, said his long-standing friendship with Sykes has helped both men grow professionally.
“We’re like brothers,” Smith said. “We’ve helped each other over the years and will continue to do so. We’re proof you can be from anywhere and work on projects like this.”
Following the film’s success during awards season, Sykes said the magnitude of the moment is still sinking in.
“My wife reminds me all the time that I’m part of history now,” he said. “I’m just letting God use me.”
Outside of film, Sykes also creates social media content with his wife, Chanell, and encourages aspiring creatives to take advantage of modern platforms.
“We’re in a generation where we don’t have to wait for big productions to find us,” he said. “We have YouTube, Tubi, Facebook and even our phones.”
Sykes’ advice to those looking to break into the film industry is simple: start now.