Sharif Atkins
(Joe Royal)

Sharif Atkins plays Joe Royal, a twenty-something jazz musician reminiscent of a young Nat King Cole, who struggles to balance his passion to succeed as a musical artist with the responsibility to provide for his family. He recently joined the regular cast of the popular television series ER. His other television credits include guest appearances in the series Arli$$, Early Edition, That's Life and The District. Atkins also appeared in the feature film Light It Up, starring Usher Raymond and Forest Whitaker. He was born in Pittsburgh, Pa., and, at age six, moved to Chicago with his family. While at Northwestern University, he participated in a summer theatre arts program. After graduating, Atkins appeared in small stage productions in Chicago.