Chad Michael Collins didn’t start out dreaming of Hollywood fame. Growing up on a farm in the quiet town of Canajoharie, New York, Chad Michael Collins spent his early years immersed in sports and comic books—two passions that shaped his youth. It was during this time that Chad Michael Collins began developing the kind of discipline and imagination that would later serve him well. After high school, he pursued journalism at Ithaca College, a path that eventually led him to California, where he worked for a public relations firm. Life had other plans, though. Even though Chad Michael Collins hadn’t considered acting seriously, fate stepped in when a talent scout saw potential and offered to help guide him toward a career in film.
And so, in 2005, Chad Michael Collins made his screen debut as Carter, an archeology student, in the mockbuster Legion of the Dead, directed by Paul Bales. Produced by The Asylum—the modern-day equivalent of Poverty Row studios—the low-budget action flick was filmed across California and borrowed heavily from popular franchises like The Mummy and even drew inspiration from Aaliyah’s final film, Queen of the Damned. While it wasn’t a mainstream breakthrough, it marked the beginning of Chad Michael Collins’ journey into acting.
Years later, in 2011, Chad Michael Collins landed a major role co-starring alongside seasoned actors Richard Sammel and Billy Zane in Sniper: Reloaded. Interestingly, Zane had played the apprentice in the original 1993 Sniper film, while Tom Berenger portrayed the veteran marksman. During the intense shoot, Chad Michael Collins found himself in a surprisingly wild moment—nearly trampled by a baby elephant, no less. Yet, he took it all in stride, showing both resilience and a sense of humor.
That same lighthearted spirit led Chad Michael Collins to explore comedy. He embraced a more humorous side by playing Theodore, the long-suffering assistant to the hilariously inept motivational speaker Rock Barnes in the absurd mockumentary Rock Barnes: The Emperor in You. The film starred Erik Stolhanske, best known as one of the five core members of Broken Lizard—the sketch comedy group behind the cult classic Super Troopers. Through roles like these, Chad Michael Collins proved he could adapt, whether facing fictional dangers on set or diving into satire with perfect comedic timing.
Chad Michael Collins has been part of several movies throughout his career, but one that really stands out is Lake Placid 2 (2007). Interestingly, that same film is also considered his lowest rated. It’s a bit of a paradox, but that’s showbiz for you. While Chad Michael Collins may have appeared in other projects that fans enjoy, Lake Placid 2 seems to be the one that gets the most attention—both good and bad. As with many actors, Chad Michael Collins has had a range of roles, yet this particular film remains a talking point for those who follow his work.