LJ Ugarte, whose heritage is Puerto Rican, was born in Brooklyn, New York City, the 3rd of four siblings. Early on, his parents encouraged his interest in the theater. At age fifteen, LJ began appearing in plays, "the gallery a low budget movie shoot on location in Coney island, as well as in a number Stage productions. Blessed with a beautiful singing voice, LJ also performed across the country featured in shows in both Miami beach and New York City.