Life & Work with Jacqueline Cook of Santa Monica

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jacqueline Cook.

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
What is my story? I’ve been strapped in front seat of the Top Thrill Dragster (for those of you that know Cedar Point) with my hands in the air and eyes squeezed shut– it’s been a ride!

I grew up in Youngstown, Ohio, a predominately Italian, steel-mill town in the heart of the rust belt. People there work hard, know who they are, cheer for the Browns, and don’t take any shit. I’m proud to be from there, because I don’t think I would have gotten where I am today without those qualities.

My family is very large and very close. Holidays, Sundays, just need to gossip over a pot of coffee — they are there. In my immediate family, I have an identical twin sister who lives in New York, and two amazing parents back in Ohio.

I went to college at Ohio State majoring in data analytics before saying “the hell with it” and chased my dreams of becoming an actor. I auditioned for a bunch of drama schools, ultimately attending California Institute of the Arts where I graduated with a BFA in Acting in 2020. I went from calculus and stats to voice and speech, and could not be more grateful. CalArts opened my eyes to all the possibilities in life, who I was, and ultimately who I could be. It was extremely difficult, but worth every late night memorizing lines and rehearsing scenes. My graduating class became my family through all of it and we are still close to this day.

After school, I continued my training with casting director, Deborah Aquila, in her Acting Masterclass and have since joined Marjorie Ballentine in her Acting Masterclass. Both of these women are badass and have made profound impacts on my craft and person. I also am mentored both professionally and spiritually, by actress Lynn Collins (The Walking Dead and X-Men). Lynn is a force to be reckoned with and I have learned so much from her over the years.

Currently, I am auditioning like crazy thanks to my agent, Harriette Feliz at Arise Artists Agency. I just wrote, produced, and starred in my own short film, wrapped a lead role in a TV pilot alongside Conor Barton (Apples Never Fall), supporting roles in two feature films, and my Off-Broadway debut in an original play.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has absolutely not been a smooth road — front seat of the rollercoaster, remember?

I have learned that life hardly ever goes to plan, and that is the best part of it. I’ve gone from floating high on cloud 9 and in the next breath at rock bottom. Having my trusted community who I can vent to, get advice, or just someone to tell me to buck up, has been my saving grace. The highs and lows have made me who I am AND have made me a better actor. I firmly believe that if you have experiences — good or bad — USE THEM!! Of course, make sure you are doing so in a manner that doesn’t cause you harm, but use it.

A few examples of struggles: not getting the part you SWORE you were perfect for, learning to let go, waiting for footage to add to your reel, trying to explain to your parents what a reel is, finding a lame job, paying rent, on and on.

Final parting advice from someone who is learning everyday: What is meant for you will find you, if you are putting in the work to find it regardless.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
As an actor I specialize in whatever genre gets me a job haha.

HOWEVER, I specialize in drama above all else. My coach Marjorie would say I have a special talent for all the colors of feistiness, rage, sorrow, and longing. Throughout my training, I’ve had the ability to hone a spectrum of skills which help me tap into the other facets such as being demure, timid, comedic, etc.

I am most proud of how I’ve grown as an actor. I performed a scene from Tape where I annihilate and devour — that is my most proud moment because of the growth. You can watch a bit of the scene on youtube 🙂

What sets me apart: my unrelenting drive to work hard, constantly seeking of the truth of moments no matter how ugly or raw, and my training which allows me to take a note and apply it.

Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
Say yes to everything and remember that if you don’t work as hard as you can or kind to anyone you meet no matter their number on the call sheet, there will always be someone who is working harder or nicer than you. And that matters.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jacquelineacook?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3fFL5yd8ymE

Image Credits
Matt Kallish