Sam J. Jones

Samuel Gerald Jones (born August 12, 1954), known professionally as Sam J. Jones, is an American actor and former football player. He gained recognition for his portrayal of the title character in the 1980 film Flash Gordon and for his role in the short-lived TV series The Highwayman (1987–1988). Born in Chicago, Illinois, Jones grew up in Sacramento, California. After serving in the United States Marine Corps and playing semi-professional football for the Seattle Flyers, he ventured into modeling and appeared as a centerfold in Playgirl magazine. Jones also appeared in TV commercials before relocating to Los Angeles to pursue his acting career.