James Hayward (born September 17, 1970) is a Canadian film director, screenwriter and animator.

[1] At a young age, Hayward began his career at Mainframe Entertainment animating and directing commercials.

Hayward was also director and writer on an animated film Free Birds, starring Woody Harrelson, Owen Wilson and Amy Poehler, which was released in 2013.

[9] In April 2023, a benefit for Hayward was put together to help pay medical bills in relation to a bone cancer diagnosis.

[10] While in cancer treatment, Hayward directed projects with world renowned bands like Primus and Tool.