Giving Back to the Craft That Made Him
Justin Hartley has announced a deeply personal and purposeful new initiative: the Vision Frame Scholarship, an annual grant created to support emerging filmmakers from underrepresented backgrounds. In partnership with the American Film Institute (AFI), this scholarship aims to fund full or partial tuition for students pursuing careers in directing, screenwriting, or producing.
Hartley has often spoken about the importance of storytelling and access in Hollywood. “There are so many brilliant storytellers who never get the chance because of financial or systemic barriers,” he said in a press release. “This scholarship is about breaking those barriers down.”
The Scholarship’s Mission
The Vision Frame Scholarship will select five recipients annually, with a focus on applicants from BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and economically disadvantaged communities. Alongside financial aid, winners will receive mentorship from industry professionals, including Hartley himself, and gain access to workshops, networking events, and one-on-one script feedback.
AFI Dean Margaret Wilkins praised Hartley’s vision: “Justin is not just funding education—he’s creating a sustainable pipeline of talent, and investing in the future of our industry. This scholarship is about impact.”
Hartley’s Personal Investment
Though known primarily for his work in front of the camera, Hartley has increasingly taken on behind-the-scenes roles as producer and director. The scholarship is a reflection of his growing commitment to shaping the next generation of voices in film and television.
“I’ve been lucky to have mentors,” Hartley said in an emotional video announcing the fund. “This is my way of paying that forward. We need more diverse stories, and those stories can only come from diverse storytellers.”
The inaugural application window opens January 2026, and Hartley will personally select at least one recipient each year to mentor throughout their AFI journey.
