WILMINGTON, NC, February 16, 2026 /24-7PressRelease/ -- John Henry Scott has been selected for inclusion in Marquis Who's Who. As in all Marquis Who's Who biographical volumes, individuals profiled are selected on the basis of current reference value. Factors such as position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility, and prominence in a field are all taken into account during the selection process.
Mr. Scott has built a multifaceted career spanning radio, music, film and live entertainment. His journey began in early childhood on a cotton farm, where he experienced deep poverty and limited opportunities. A pivotal moment occurred when he attended a carnival sideshow and became the youngest professional performer, known as "Johnny Ironfoot," after walking across broken glass on stage. This experience ignited his lifelong passion for entertainment.
In the late 1960s, Mr. Scott entered the world of radio broadcasting, ultimately dedicating 45 years to the profession as a radio disc jockey. He became widely recognized under the stage name John Henry Scott, a name he legally adopted during his marriage to protect his privacy from persistent callers. His talent and charisma led to national recognition, culminating in his induction into the DJ Hall of Fame in Nashville. Following this honor, Mr. Scott received offers from larger markets and accepted a position as a morning disc jockey in New Orleans.
While working in New Orleans in the early 1980s, his career took another significant turn when Allen Fontenot invited him to promote a new Cajun band on his radio show. When the band's bass player was unable to perform at a show, Mr. Scott stepped in as bassist—a decision that launched a 20-year tenure with Allen Fontenot and the Country Cajuns. The group toured extensively across the United States, performed as guest artists at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville and appeared at the 1984 World's Fair in New Orleans. Their musical achievements were further recognized with an induction into the Cajun Music Hall of Fame. Among Mr. Scott's most cherished memories is performing "You Are My Sunshine" on stage with former Louisiana Governor Jimmie Davis at the World's Fair.
Mr. Scott also pursued acting and comedy throughout his career. He appeared in numerous films and television projects, including portraying Abe Turner in "The Adventures of Huck Finn" in 1993 alongside Elijah Wood, Robbie Coltrane and Jason Robards. He was featured as a maintenance man on the television series "Matlock," starring Andy Griffith, in 1995 and worked with Tyler Perry in Atlanta productions. Although he never starred as a lead in a released film, he held a leading role in one unreleased project and earned substantial compensation for his film work. His acting talents were recognized early when he won Best Actor for his first stage performance in New Orleans.
In addition to film and music, Mr. Scott performed stand-up comedy and portrayed Ronald McDonald in McDonald's commercials for several years. He later owned Scotty Entertainment and worked as a ghost tour guide, sharing local history and legends with visitors.
Mr. Scott is also a licensed minister in Evansville, Indiana, serving as pastor under his legal name, the Reverend Jackie Gantt Junior. He completed an ordination ceremony and officiates weddings within his church community. His professional affiliations include membership in SAG-AFTRA, reflecting his ongoing commitment to excellence in performance arts.
Mr. Scott's educational background includes earning a General Educational Development certificate. He also holds several professional certifications: an electronic license, pilot's license and minister's license. These credentials have supported his diverse pursuits across entertainment, aviation and ministry.
Civically engaged throughout his life, Mr. Scott has volunteered for various charitable organizations and is affiliated with Shriners International. On a personal level, he enjoys spending time with his family and is the father of three children.
About Marquis Who's Who®:
Since 1899, when A. N. Marquis printed the First Edition of Who's Who in America®, Marquis Who's Who® has chronicled the lives of the most accomplished individuals and innovators from every significant field of endeavor, including politics, business, medicine, law, education, art, religion and entertainment. Who's Who in America® remains an essential biographical source for thousands of researchers, journalists, librarians and executive search firms around the world. The suite of Marquis® publications can be viewed at the official Marquis Who's Who® website, www.marquiswhoswho.com.
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