Brian J. Smith as Daniel Lennix in Class of '09 | FX

Brian J. Smith

Daniel Lennix

In a class of outsiders, "Lennix," portrayed by Brian J. Smith, appears to be the quintessential insider, born to a family of old money with powerful connections. Yet, in spirit, he is as much an outsider as the others, and is determined to find his own path through life, rather than following the one laid down for him. A romantic, he falls in love with Poet from almost the first time they meet. It takes her 20 years to realize what he knew from the first day. 

Career Highlights

Most recently, Brian J. Smith wrapped the limited series Essex County for the CBC. Last year, Smith starred in the Warner Bros. feature film The Matrix Resurrections with Keanu Reeves. In 2019, Smith appeared in USA Network's Treadstone and in BBC's World on Fire starring Helen Hunt, Lesley Manville and Sean Bean. Prior to that, he wrapped on the CBS pilot L.A. Confidential starring alongside Walton Goggins and directed by Michael Dinner. Smith is perhaps best known for his role as “Will Gorski” in the Wachowskis’ hit Netflix series, Sense8. In 2013, Smith starred in The Glass Menagerie on Broadway, earning him a Drama Desk nomination as well as a Tony Award® nomination for Outstanding Featured Actor in a Play. He then reprised the role on the West End, earning him an Olivier Award nomination for Best Actor in a Supporting Role. Smith is also a producer/director and is currently in postproduction on his documentary film about Fire Island.

Jon Jon Briones

as Gabriel

Gabriel is an extraordinarily wise teacher, he accepted early that he could make more of a difference teaching trainees, rather than being a field Agent.