In the fabled city of Las Vegas, a place known for its bright lights and larger-than-life dreams, a rising star of the next generation is quietly making a name for himself in the world of film. His name is Cooper Nelson—a talented young actor whose journey began at an early age with small roles in commercials, slowly building his experience and honing his craft.
Even as a child, Cooper was drawn to the spotlight, attending audition after audition with a determination that set him apart. He faced the highs and lows of the industry with quiet resilience, never losing sight of his goal. That drive and passion are now beginning to pay off.
I know Cooper not just as a promising actor, but as family—he's the son of my cousin, Heather Zabinski-Nelson. Watching his growth from afar has been both exciting and inspiring. His breakout performances in projects such as Look What You Made Me Do (Reimagined) (2020) and One Among Us (2021) began to showcase his depth and range as an actor.
In 2022, Cooper took a significant step forward in his career when he appeared in Prisoner’s Daughter, a film that allowed him to share the screen with industry heavyweights Brian Cox and Kate Beckinsale. Holding his own alongside such acclaimed talent speaks volumes about his skill and potential.
With each role, Cooper continues to carve out a space for himself in the entertainment industry. From the neon lights of Vegas to the big screen, his story is just beginning—and it’s one worth watching.
Cooper's most recent work showcases just how far his talent has come. He starred in a powerful short film titled The Fairfax Incident, a gripping project that has already started turning heads in the independent film scene. The film was recently nominated at the prestigious Las Vegas Black Film Festival—an incredible honor in itself.
But the real excitement came just two weeks ago, when Cooper received a life-changing phone call: he had been nominated for Best Actor for his performance in The Fairfax Incident! The news was nothing short of thrilling for everyone involved—especially for Cooper and his proud mother, Heather. To be recognized in such a meaningful way at only seventeen years old is a remarkable achievement, and a clear sign that his star is rising fast.
The Fairfax Incident is scheduled to be screened at the Suncoast Cinema during the festival on April 25th, and there's a palpable buzz building around the event. The entire cast and crew poured their hearts into the project, and the recognition it’s receiving is a testament to their dedication and passion.
As for Cooper, this nomination not only validates his years of hard work and perseverance, but also marks a major milestone in what promises to be a long and successful acting career. The city of Las Vegas may be known for its bright lights—but there’s a new star shining among them.