Jay Ellis had an incredible time working alongside Kate Hudson in the upcoming Netflix sports drama Running Point. Reflecting on their on-screen dynamic, Ellis described Hudson as “funny, kind, and a bit of a smartass,” adding that her energy made filming a breeze.
“Kate is such an easy person to be around,” Ellis, 43, shared in an exclusive conversation with Us Weekly while promoting his Creative Spirit Challenge in collaboration with Rabbit Hole Distillery. “She’s constantly singing—like a mermaid serenading the set. It’s beautiful.”
Building a Winning Team—On and Off the Screen
In Running Point, premiering September 27 on Netflix, Ellis plays Jay Brown, head coach of the fictional NBA team Los Angeles Waves. Hudson portrays Isla Gordon, a former party girl who unexpectedly steps in as the team’s president after her brother Cam (played by Justin Theroux) enters rehab. Together, they must transform a struggling team into championship contenders.
Ellis admitted that he had no specific expectations before working with Hudson, but their instant connection made the experience seamless.
“There are some people you just click with,” he explained. “Acting is about giving and receiving—when that chemistry is there, it’s magic.”
A Personal Connection to the Role
Ellis found himself deeply immersed in his character, drawing inspiration from his own experiences as a former college basketball player. While studying at Concordia University in Portland, Oregon, he played for the basketball team, graduated Summa Cum Laude, and even served as student body president.
“It was wild to bring so much of my personal history into a role,” Ellis recalled. “It took me back to my days as a player—thinking about my teammates, injuries, my own ambition, and how it all shaped me.”
However, stepping into the shoes of a coach rather than a player presented a new challenge. “My character is only a couple of years removed from playing, so he’s still adjusting to leading instead of being on the court himself.”
A Competitive Edge
Ellis’s competitive nature didn’t just help him in basketball—it also drives his acting career. “I always want to push myself—whether it’s in the gym, on set, or taking on new challenges,” he shared.
That same mindset is shaping his work with emerging filmmakers. Through the Creative Spirit Challenge, Ellis and Rabbit Hole Distillery are giving aspiring directors the chance to showcase their talent. Participants submit videos sharing their creative journey, with the grand prize winner receiving a professional-grade Canon camera and a one-on-one mentorship session with Ellis. Three runners-up will also receive high-quality filmmaking gear.
Empowering the Next Generation of Filmmakers
Ellis is passionate about supporting new voices in the film industry. “The filmmakers of tomorrow are making their first projects today,” he emphasized. “If we’re not helping emerging artists, we’re missing out on incredible stories.”
His goal? To give young creatives the tools and guidance they need to succeed. “It’s not just about storytelling—it’s about marketing, confidence, and understanding the craft. I hope to give them everything they need to navigate this industry.”
Ellis added with a laugh, “There’s a whole syllabus. They better be ready, because I’ll be quizzing them!”
With Running Point set to premiere and his mentorship program underway, Ellis is excited about what’s next—both on and off the screen.
