Celtics Star Jayson Tatum Not Actually in "Training Day"

Viral post sparks confusion over Tatum's acting past

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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A viral post on X claiming Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum appeared as a child actor in the 2001 film "Training Day" has sparked widespread confusion among NBA fans. However, the actor who played the kid in the movie is actually Kyjel N. Jolly, not Tatum.

Why it matters

Tatum is one of the NBA's rising superstars, so any connection to a classic film like "Training Day" would be a major revelation. The viral post highlights how social media can spread misinformation, even about well-known public figures.

The details

The post from user @KyleSimonsen went viral with over 3 million views, leading many to wonder if Tatum had an acting past before becoming a basketball star. However, a check of Jolly's IMDb page confirms he was the child actor in "Training Day", not Tatum, who would have been only 3 years old when the film was released in 2001.

  • The viral post surfaced on X on October 22, 2024.
  • "Training Day" was released in theaters in October 2001.

The players

Jayson Tatum

A five-time NBA All-Star and current player for the Boston Celtics.

Kyjel N. Jolly

The actor who played the child in the 2001 film "Training Day", which is the only acting role listed on his IMDb page.

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What they’re saying

“Jayson Tatum looks like the kid from Training Day to me”

— Kyle Simonsen (X)

The takeaway

This case highlights how social media can quickly spread misinformation, even about well-known public figures like NBA stars. While the resemblance between Tatum and the "Training Day" child actor is striking, it's important to verify facts before assuming a connection that doesn't actually exist.