Exclusive Interview with Sean Ross, Celebrated IFBB Pro Champion on His Rise From Air Force Veteran to Hollywood Talent

Sean Ross is an American actor, IFBB Pro Men’s Physique Champion, model, and United States Air Force veteran whose journey from military service to film and television is capturing the attention of Hollywood. 

In this exclusive interview, Sean opens up about discipline, ambition, and the power of reinvention.

Q: Sean, you’ve lived multiple chapters already. What inspired you to pursue acting after serving in the Air Force?

Sean Ross: I always knew acting was in me. Even while I was serving, I would sit and imagine myself on set or in front of a camera. After completing two terms and one deployment, I realized life is too short to ignore your calling. The Air Force taught me discipline and resilience, and I knew those qualities would carry me through the entertainment industry. I decided to go for it with everything in me.

Q: You trained in theater and film before landing professional roles. How did education shape your craft?

Sean Ross: Training was essential. I did not want to walk onto a set unprepared. At Contra Costa College, I learned how to project, how to connect emotionally, and how to truly live in a moment on stage. Studying at the Academy of Art University in San Francisco pushed me even further into understanding film, camera technique, and character work. I respect this craft deeply, so getting formal training was very important to me.

Q: You landed a featured role on the series Trauma and eventually became a stunt performer on the show. What was that experience like?

Sean Ross: It was surreal. I started out just grateful to be on the show, then suddenly I was behind the wheel as the stunt driver and doubling for the lead actor. That experience taught me so much about professionalism, physical control, and trust on set. It was also how I earned my SAG AFTRA card. Trauma was a turning point for me because it proved I belonged in this industry.

Q: You are also a USA Nationals Overall Champion in Men’s Physique. How has bodybuilding influenced your acting career?

Sean Ross: Bodybuilding gave me discipline, consistency, and the ability to endure. In acting, your body is part of your instrument, so having control over it is a major plus. It also opened doors for roles that require military, law enforcement, strong dad, or action based characters. Fitness is a lifestyle for me, and I think it helps me stay ready for anything Hollywood brings my way.

Q: What kinds of roles are you most excited to take on in the future?

Sean Ross: I love roles that allow me to use all parts of who I am: a veteran, an athlete, a protector, a leader. I gravitate toward action, drama, law enforcement, and roles that show loyalty, strength, and heart. I also want to take on complex characters who have real depth and internal conflict. I am ready to stretch in both physical and emotional ways.

Q: With so many accomplishments already, what motivates you to keep pushing forward?

Sean Ross: Purpose motivates me. I have lived many lives and every experience prepared me for this moment. My mission is to inspire others to chase their dreams no matter how many times they have to start over. I am grateful for every opportunity, and I stay hungry because I know my best work is still ahead of me.

Q: Where can fans follow your journey?

Sean Ross: The best place to follow me is on Instagram at @1seanross_ifbbpro. I share updates on my projects, training, behind the scenes moments, and my daily life.