We had the good fortune of connecting with Jaclyn Lopez and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jaclyn, why did you pursue a creative career?
I’m happy to answer this question because I love to share this story. When I was 6, my mom would turn on the old Golden Era Hollywood Classic films and I was always enthralled by them because they were different than the Disney or Nickelodeon animated movies I would watch. So one night my mom decided to show me “Calamity Jane” starring Doris Day and I LOVED seeing this character being brought to life. I couldn’t laughing at the strange and quirky dialogue being used and I would dance and try to sing the songs in the film as well. Afterwards, I wanted to imitate Doris Day acting and when I did, my mom started laughing and told me to do it again because it was “funny and good.” At that moment I felt pure joy and love of bringing people entertainment. Plus being 6, you want to be anything and everything, so I figured what’s the one career that I can be all these things? Acting! Everytime I’m on set, it’s the one place where I truly feel I belong.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’ll always be excited about the role I played in season 3 of “Guidance.” That was my first big role when I moved to LA and it helped give me the confidence to continue with this industry. It definitely isn’t easy getting into those audition rooms, but when you’re able to leave an impression with the casting directors, I personally feel like that’s a win because you might not be right for that role, but they will always have other projects to cast and will keep you in mind. Currently, I’m excited about the project I created called “Nefertiti.” Due to my strong passion for history, I know there are untold stories that need to be shared with the world. “Nefertiti” is a story I’ve been wanting to write since high school and during college I actually started writing it for my screenwriting class. However, it wasn’t until 2019, after meeting Kathy DiStefano, did I start seriously writing this series. She taught me how to become a better writer and story teller and since then, “Nefertiti” has placed and won at some of the top script competitions. I have 4 producers officially attached to this project that I’‘m very excited to work with because they share and support my vision of this series. One is an EP at Marvel and has his own original series coming out next year, the other became the Senior VP of Production at Hartbeat Productions, another has his own original show coming out on Netflix, and the other recently produced a film with Spike Lee called “Son of the South.” I’m blessed and grateful that I’m surrounded and partnered with talented people. Because of my love for history and film, I wanted to create films and shows that not only show a wide diverse cast, but authentic period pieces.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Good question! Several of the places I would take them is Universal Studios, Malibu, Santa Monica, or Venice Beach. Also, just because they are in LA, show them the Hollywood sign. One of my favorite places to visit and hang out at night is Player One in North Hollywood because it’s retro and you’re able to play a lot of the old games I grew up playing. Lastly, I’d probably take them to The Grove depending on the time of the year.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d like to dedicate this shoutout to my dad, John A. Lopez-he passed in 2020 from Covid. Also to my mom, Tom Proctor, Jeffery Kallenberg, Dr. Michelle Glaros, Sarah Grace Johnson, Sheryl Levine, SJ Hodges, and Kathy DiStefano. Each one had a small or big impact on my life that helped me be where I am now in this industry. From just supporting me, coaching me, teaching me writing, and even giving me a chance to bring a character to life. I cannot thank you enough for all you’ve done to help further my career.

Website: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3863628/

Instagram: jaclynlopez2

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