The Man Behind 'Mayans': An Inside Look At Troublemaker Elgin James
Who exactly is Elgin James? Besides being the writer/director for FX's "Sons of Anarchy" spinoff, "Mayans M.C.," he's already done plenty with his life -- enough to last him quite a while. Here are just a few highlights.
Had a Troubled Life
James says he grew up in a troubled household and for a while lived in orphanages and foster homes. In the video posted by Sutter, he calls himself a "terrified kid," who suffered from nervous tics.
Kept To the Straight and Narrow
The alcohol and drug abuse he saw at home had a positive impact on him, in that he formed his own anti-drinking/drug beliefs.James says watching movies and TV helped center and calm him.
Has Roots In Hardcore Punk
He's also been a straight-edge hardcore punk musician, playing in bands like Wrecking Crew, Righteous Jams and 454 Big Block. Later, James helped found the anti-racist group FSU, aka "Friends Stand United," which the FBI has called a street gang.
He Has a Record
James has been in trouble with the law in the past. In 2009 he was arrested and charged with federal extortion. But he says storytelling became his "escape" from the violent childhood he lived.
He's a Good Dude
Kurt Sutter posted this short video of James, where James says "what is my story? Who is Elgin James? Umm, a f--kup?" He may have taken some odd turns in his life, but a screwup he isn't.
