Alimi Ballard Brings Bronx Pride to Twin Pillars Premiere

Bronx star Alimi Ballard celebrated roots at ABFF’s Soho House gala premiere of Twin Pillars

By Poulami Nag

Early Saturday evening, actor Alimi Ballard stole the spotlight at the American Black Film Festival’s Soho House Miami gala. Posing against a sleek black backdrop, Ballard’s Instagram post bore the bold caption “B R O N X • B U I L T • ✨👊🏾💫👑 #TWINPILLARS #ABFF #SohoHouse #Premiere 💫🚀,” underlining his pride and excitement for the night.

Alimi Ballard Champions Bronx Roots

Ballard, best known for his roles on CSI: NY and Numb3rs, made it clear that his hometown identity remained front and center. With the hashtag #BronxBuilt standing out in his post, the actor paid homage to the New York borough where he grew up. The image, captured by @dennymoesmediahouse, shows Ballard in a tailored black suit accented by a crisp white shirt and diamond pin — a nod to his polished but personal style.

The caption’s emojis — a crown, sparkles and a fist bump — underscored Ballard’s message of triumph. He translated his own life story into a visual anthem: from a teen featured in music videos to a series lead, Ballard’s journey has always been fueled by grit and self-belief.

Inside The Twin Pillars Premiere

Twin Pillars, directed by Darrin Henson and executive produced by R&B legend Keith Sweat, debuted at ABFF to a packed house. The project brings together an ensemble cast including Fat Joe, Niki Murphy, Justin “2Sweat” Liggins, Seanan Anthony Baker, and Ballard himself. Henson celebrated the launch on his own feed, writing “YEEAAAAH MANG!!!!!!! WE OUT HERE!!!” alongside behind-the-scenes stills from the Miami set.

The premiere at Soho House was part of ABFF’s weekend lineup, with screenings, panels and Q&A sessions weaving industry insights with fan interaction. Attendees sipped cocktails under twinkling lights, while Ballard and his co-stars greeted fans and posed for photographers.

A Career Built On Versatility

Born May 25, 1977, Alimi Ballard began acting at age 13 in educational films and music videos. He gained early recognition as a series regular on Sabrina the Teenage Witch before landing roles on Family Matters and ER. By 2004, he joined the cast of CSI: NY as Detective Don Flack Jr., earning praise for his portrayal of a straight-shooting crime investigator.

In recent years, Ballard has shown range in projects like Freeform’s Shadowhunters and the CBS drama SEAL Team. Twin Pillars marks his latest foray into ensemble storytelling — one that intersects music, street culture and heartfelt drama.

Beyond acting, Ballard uses his platform to mentor young creatives and advocate for greater representation behind the camera. Comments on his Instagram feed reveal appreciation from fans who connect with his path from Bronx beginnings to Hollywood sets.

The night wrapped with applause as Twin Pillars screened its first episode. Ballard’s presence — equal parts style and substance — reinforced why he remains a fixture on red carpets and crime dramas alike. Fans left buzzing about both the film and the man who proudly proclaimed, “Bronx Built.”

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Alimi Ballard was born on October 17, 1978, in Los Angeles, California.
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Poulami is an associate editor. She did her MA in English from Miranda House, University of Delhi and has qualified UGC-NET. She also holds a PG diploma in Editing and Publishing from Jadavpur University. Her journey as a content writer began in 2017 and since then, Poulami has garnered diverse interests along the way.

Read full bio of Poulami Nag
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