Actress Jennifer Michele Talks About Stunt Work And Directing Her Short Film ‘Riley’

A triple-threat!

With over half a million followers on Tik Tok and a recent role on Fox’s ‘9-1-1’, Jennifer Michele is becoming a star to watch. An actress, singer, and director: we never know what she’s going to do next!

We had the amazing honor of talking with Jennifer about her biggest inspiration, horseback riding, and more!

When did you realize that you have a passion for the arts?

J: “I’ve had a passion for the arts for as long as I can remember. Since I was a little girl I turned everything into an acting scene or performance. Dancing, Singing, all of it has always been fun to me. When I was a little girl I saw Peter Pan, and I thought it would be fun to travel forever, and I would love to be in movies as well.”  

What has been your favorite memory during your career so far, and why? 

J: “Oh wow, so many! I definitely enjoyed “Riley”, so much preparation went into it. It’s special when something is your own project. I wrote it, directed it and acted in it. It gives you a special affinity with the project when you build it from start to finish. Everyone that helped me on set was also very good and professional, and very kind.”

I had the pleasure to meet you at the 42nd Young Artist Academy Awards, where you won an award for your short film ‘Riley’. What was your inspiration behind the film?

J: “Hi Alessia! Thanks for asking. For me it was important to share a story that could inspire people. I think we’ve all felt like the odd one out, which is how Riley feels at the beginning of the story. The story is about a girl discovering her worth. It shows the importance of encouraging each other and believing in yourself.”

It’s no secret that you have a knack for horseback riding! When did you start riding and what brought it to your life?

J: “I’ve been horseback riding for five or six years now. Some of my family live more in the rural areas, and horseback riding is a part of that. That’s where I picked it up and I’ve enjoyed it ever since. The teamwork with a horse is really something amazing, I love that about playing polo as well!”

With the new year still fresh, what can your new supporters expect from you in the new year?

J: “I am very excited about this year. There are already projects on the way in directing, acting and singing, all at the same time. I can’t say anything about it yet, but I will share it all as soon as I can.”

Who has been your biggest inspiration throughout your career so far?

J: “My mom. She is very strong and kind. She is very smart and helped me so much in every single way in my career. Analyzing characters, encouraging me. Helping me get ready for auditions, events, I mean literally everything. She is very encouraging and very good at what she does. I trust her completely when she gives me advice.”

Tell us a little bit more about your experience on “Joey and Ella”.

J: “Joey and Ella” was a wonderful film. It was fun and a different experience since Joey was a CG (computer generated) kangaroo. There were a lot of vintage places we filmed all over Oklahoma. Everyone on set was very nice and I learned a lot.”

You feature lots of stunt work on your social media! What is your favorite part about learning to do your own stunts?

J: “I think stretching yourself, the challenge. Of course it takes hard work to get better at everything, but I love the adventure part of it. Being able to do stunts today I couldn’t do yesterday, and do stunts tomorrow I couldn’t do today.”

Do you wish to pursue more behind-the-camera work as your career expands?

 J: “I do. I like it all. Acting, singing and directing are my three main passions. I love the whole production, everything that comes with it. I think it helps you as an actress when you understand the whole process, not just your role. And as a director you have to watch so many things at the same time. I definitely enjoyed directing Riley, and I’m looking forward to doing much more of it.”

Where can we follow your amazing journey?

J: “I’m on Instagram @thejennifermichele and on TikTok @thejennifermichele.”

Alessia Shaw- Movie/Entertainment Editor– Alessia is a rising Junior in high school located in Southern California! She is an actress, writer and avid mental health advocate. Alessia loves writing in many forms, especially spoken word poetry. As her resume continues to grow, so does her love for the arts. She hopes to continue her acting path and attend a performing arts college in the near future.