Young actor has superhero aspirations
Jordan Santiago is animated, articulate, and has a big smile. “I’m really good at smiling,” he said. Jordan, 5, is quick to break into song, “You are my sunshine, my only sunshine…” as his 2 ½ year-old sister, Leilani, joins in and runs around him.
If you’ve ever assumed that behind every young actor is an eager stage mother, think again. Without prompting, Jordan poses, flexes, karate kicks and recites monologues. He is “Super Jord! Powered by the Lord!”
It began less than a year ago when North by Northwest Productions was looking for a “cute kid with dark curly hair who is not shy.” Jordan fit the bill and, after a five-minute interview, he was cast in the film “Home of the Brave.” He played the part of Oliver, Jessica Biel’s character’s son.
After that, Jordan entered an International Modeling and Talent Association competition in Los Angeles. He won nine awards and was invited to meet with Cindy Osbrink, young actress Dakota Fanning’s agent, who signed him.
“Jordan wouldn’t have been able to compete in the IMTA competition without the help and support of the community,” said his mother, Heidi Santiago. Gifts included cash, gift certificates and 100,000 frequent flier miles. “Many people also sent prayers. … We are so thankful,” she said.
While Jordan’s dad, Cory Santiago, held down the fort at their South Hill home, Jordan, Leilani and Heidi recently boarded a plane to Los Angeles where Jordan will audition during the pilot season. They will return in April.
Jordan’s hobbies include climbing, dancing, acting, telling jokes, memorizing verses and drawing. He also enjoys hanging out with his older half-siblings Austin, Collin and Sydney.
Though Jordan is only 3 feet 7 inches tall and 41 pounds, he is bigger than life and already has a goal. “I want to be in a Power Ranger movie some day,” he said. The blue Power Ranger is his favorite.
He runs around, punching a fisted hand toward the sky, adamant in his belief that he is, indeed, a superhero, or at least he’ll play one on TV or the big screen with the aid of special effects. Whatever the outcome, he will be believable; he is after all, “Super Jord.”