Mitch Holleman is an American actor and comedian best known for his role as Jake Hart, the youngest child in the beloved sitcom Reba. With a career that began before kindergarten, Holleman quickly became a familiar face on television screens across the U.S. This article explores his early start in the entertainment industry, his rise to fame on Reba, and his life and work beyond the show.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born on September 13, 1994, in Auburn, Alabama, Mitch Holleman showed an early interest in acting. By the age of two, he was already expressing a desire to be on television. Recognizing his enthusiasm, his family moved to Naples, Florida, where he signed with a Miami-based talent agency. This move proved fruitful; by the age of four, Holleman had booked national commercials for Nickelodeon and Burger King.
A pivotal trip to New York City with his mother led to numerous commercial opportunities and a guest-starring role on the acclaimed television series The Sopranos in 1999. His big break came at age five when he was cast as a series regular on the NBC sitcom Daddio, where he played Jake Woods. Although the show was short-lived, it provided Holleman with valuable experience and exposure in the industry.
Breakthrough and Role in Reba
In 2001, Holleman landed the role that would define his early career: Jake Hart on the WB/CW sitcom Reba. The show starred country music icon Reba McEntire as Reba Hart, a single mother navigating life’s challenges. Holleman’s character, Jake, was the youngest of Reba’s three children, known for his innocence and comedic timing.
Reba ran for six seasons from 2001 to 2007, with Holleman appearing in 112 of the show’s 126 episodes. His portrayal of Jake earned him critical acclaim and several Young Artist Award nominations, highlighting his talent as a young actor. Working closely with seasoned performers like Reba McEntire, who also served as his acting mentor, Holleman honed his craft and became a fan favorite.
Other Notable Work
Beyond Reba, Holleman’s acting portfolio includes a variety of roles in both television and film. He appeared in the 2001 comedy The Animal, starring Rob Schneider, and played a young version of the main character in Bubble Boy, alongside Jake Gyllenhaal.
Holleman also made guest appearances on popular television shows such as Everybody Loves Raymond and Shake It Up. In 2005, he lent his voice to the character The Duke in an episode of the animated series Avatar: The Last Airbender. Additionally, he served as an on-air reporter for the TV Guide Channel, showcasing his versatility in the entertainment industry.
Personal Life
Mitch Holleman married Emma Elizabeth Holleman on May 16, 2020, in Los Angeles, California. The couple maintains a relatively private life, with limited public appearances and social media activity. Holleman has expressed interests outside of acting, including taekwondo, amusement parks, and surfing, reflecting a well-rounded personality beyond his on-screen roles.
Life Beyond Acting
After Reba concluded in 2007, Holleman took a step back from mainstream acting. However, he remained active in the entertainment industry, exploring new avenues such as stand-up comedy and podcasting. Since 2019, he has co-hosted the podcast Extremely Internet with fellow comedians Kyle Anderson and Gracie Todd. The show delves into bizarre and humorous internet stories, allowing Holleman to showcase his comedic talents in a new format.
Fun Facts and Trivia
Early Ambitions: Holleman began expressing a desire to act at the age of two, demonstrating an early passion for the performing arts.
Mentorship: Reba McEntire, his co-star on Reba, served as his acting mentor, guiding him through the nuances of television acting.
Voice Acting: He provided the voice for The Duke in an episode of Avatar: The Last Airbender, showcasing his versatility as a performer.
Commercial Success: Before his television roles, Holleman appeared in national commercials for major brands like Nickelodeon and Burger King.
Legacy and Current Endeavors
Mitch Holleman‘s portrayal of Jake Hart left a lasting impression on fans of Reba, contributing to the show’s enduring popularity. While he has stepped away from traditional acting roles, his foray into podcasting and stand-up comedy illustrates his continued passion for entertainment.
As of 2025, Holleman remains active in the comedy scene, engaging audiences with his unique perspective and humor. His journey from child actor to multifaceted entertainer serves as an inspiration for those navigating the evolving landscape of the entertainment industry.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What happened to Jake from Reba?
Mitch Holleman, who played Jake Hart on Reba, transitioned from acting to comedy and podcasting. He co-hosts the podcast Extremely Internet and performs stand-up comedy.
Is Mitch Holleman still acting?
While Holleman has taken a step back from traditional acting roles, he remains active in the entertainment industry through comedy and podcasting.
Who is Mitch Holleman married to?
He is married to Emma Elizabeth Holleman. The couple wed on May 16, 2020, in Los Angeles, California.
Did Mitch Holleman win any awards for his role in Reba?
Holleman received several Young Artist Award nominations for his performance as Jake Hart on Reba, recognizing his talent as a young actor.
What is Mitch Holleman doing now?
As of 2025, Holleman is focused on his podcast Extremely Internet and continues to perform stand-up comedy, engaging audiences with his humor and insights.