User:CarltonHeard/sandbox

Carlton Heard
Carlton Heard (born August 21, 1993) is an American film director, producer, and screenwriter.

Early Life
Carlton was born in Athens, GA, and was raised by Trina and David Heard.

Football Career
High School (2007 – 2011): In his senior year at Clarke Central High School (GA), Heard transitioned to the receiver position, catching 25 passes for 520 yards and scoring seven touchdowns. His exemplary performance was a vital factor in leading the Gladiators to achieve an impressive 11-1 record and win the Georgia Region 8-AAAA title in 2010, marking a pivotal moment in his high school football career.

2011: Gardner-Webb University Heard began his collegiate football journey as a walk-on at Gardner-Webb University, opting to redshirt his first year. His exceptional performance and relentless work ethic throughout the preseason practices did not go unnoticed, earning him a scholarship.

2012: Gardner-Webb University In his redshirt freshman season, Heard took the field in eight games, demonstrating his prowess as a receiver with 31 catches for 422 yards, averaging 13.6 yards per reception, and scoring one touchdown. A standout moment was his career-long 54-yard touchdown catch against Liberty, a performance that garnered him Big South Freshman of the Week honors.

2013: University of South Carolina Heard transferred to the University of South Carolina, joining the football program as a walk-on wide receiver in the spring. However, NCAA transfer rules rendered him ineligible to play during the fall season.

2014: University of South Carolina Awarded a scholarship before the season began, Heard saw action in 12 of 13 games, mainly contributing on special teams. His pivotal block of a punt in the fourth quarter against Florida led to a game-tying touchdown, forcing the game into overtime. His efforts over the season also included a tackle, and he was named the Most Improved Wide Receiver in the spring.

2015: University of South Carolina In his senior season, Heard played in 11 games, earning four starts, and made five receptions for a total of 78 yards, averaging 15.6 yards per catch. Season highlights included starting the season opener against North Carolina, a key 31-yard catch against Kentucky, and two receptions totaling 38 yards in a victory over UCF. An injury sustained during practice forced him to miss the LSU game. Heard wrapped up his college football career with starts against Tennessee and Clemson.

Film Career
In 2020, the filmmaker left a profound mark on the cultural scene with the debut of the short film, "The Black Hole." Bearing thematic resemblances to "Two Distant Strangers," which was released on April 9, 2021, "The Black Hole" explores complex social and existential themes, captivating audiences worldwide. The film not only swept up numerous awards but also generated significant buzz across various media platforms, becoming a topic of widespread discussion. This level of engagement and acclaim significantly contributed to Carlton securing a lucrative film distribution deal to Urban Home Entertainment in March 2022.

Personal Life
In March 2007, Carlton's mother, Trina Lenette Heard, a 39-year-old school crossing guard, was tragically struck by a vehicle operated by David Vernon Outen at the intersection of Hawthorne Avenue and West Broad Street in Athens-Clarke County. The incident, which occurred in a restaurant parking lot, is believed to have been the result of Outen suffering a seizure after failing to take his medication. At the time of the accident, Trina was on a break, grabbing a bite to eat before continuing her duties at Baxter Street, where she played a vital role in ensuring the safety of students commuting to Clarke Middle and Alps Road Elementary Schools. Known for her dedication and care, Trina's untimely death left a profound impact on the community, especially among the students and staff of the schools she served, marking a moment of collective mourning and reflection on the significant role she played in the community.

Carlton Heard is married to Marissa Heard, and together they have a daughter named Haylie Heard.