Flatbed Entertainment was born in that quiet space between struggle and vision, lying flat on your back at night, staring at the ceiling, imagining the life you're meant to live, & daring to pursue it.
In 2017, our co-founder Jayoni was sleeping on an air mattress in a basement hallway, one that deflated every single night. For over a year, he’d wake, re-inflate it, & lay back to rest. It was uncomfortable, unglamorous but filled with purpose. In those long nights, a deeper dream took shape: to build a creative studio rooted in resilience, imagination, & the relentless pursuit of meaningful storytelling.
Flatbed is dedicated to telling stories that breathe life into what’s been deflated & elevating voices & communities often left flat or unheard. Like that mattress, our mission is to fill the frame with air, depth, & lift. Crafting films & branded content that rise with purpose & move with impact.
Inflated With Purpose
Jayoni
Jayoni is a multifaceted artist and entrepreneur from Chevy Chase, MD, blending his passions for acting, production, and storytelling as the CEO and Co-Founder of Flatbed Entertainment. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Communications with a minor in Business Administration from St. John’s University, and went on to complete two years of Meisner technique training at the esteemed William Esper Studio.
Jayoni’s career began behind the scenes as a 1st Team Set Production Assistant on major TV productions in New York City, where he worked alongside talent such as Forest Whitaker, Giancarlo Esposito, Rami Malek, & countless others. While the on-set experience was invaluable, it sparked a desire to take more creative control of his path.
That vision led to the founding of Flatbed Entertainment, a production company dedicated to crafting bold, emotionally resonant stories across film, television, and branded content. As CEO & creative director/producer, Jayoni leads the company’s strategic vision, oversees operations, negotiates key partnerships, and builds relationships with creators, investors, and collaborators. His work bridges artistry and entrepreneurship, driven by a deep commitment to telling stories that move, matter, and make an impact.
Founder / CEO
Samuel J. Pemberton
Co-Founder / Chief of Development & Production
Sam J. Pemberton, a Brooklyn native, is a versatile writer, producer, and actor with a deep passion for storytelling and entertainment. Raised in diverse cultural environments across the United States, he ultimately settled in New York City during his teenage years.
Sam's journey into the world of dramatic arts began while studying Communications and Political Science at St. John's University. During this time, he honed his skills in screenwriting and embraced the acting industry. After earning his bachelor's degree, Sam committed himself to a full-time career in dramatic arts. He furthered his acting craft through auditions and training at renowned institutions like Manhattan's New School of Drama, Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre, and the John Pallotta Studio of Acting.
As a professional SAG-AFTRA actor, Sam quickly established himself in the TV/Film industry. Additionally, he co-founded Flatbed Entertainment. In his current role as Chief of Development & Production, Sam plays a pivotal leadership role. His responsibilities encompass identifying promising projects, and collaborating with writers and directors during the development process. He ensures that the creative vision is realized while using his strategic decision-making skills which contribute significantly to shaping of FBE’s content portfolio and overall success.