Today we’d like to introduce you to Janine Parkinson.
Hi Janine, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
If we start at the very beginning: I was the unexpected love child of a stubborn Brit and a laid-back Canadian. With their constant disagreements and dry humor, my childhood was like a never-ending comedy sketch. Desperate for some real laughs, I packed my bags and left my small town and escaped to The Second City, Toronto.
Under the guidance of comedy legends, I dove headfirst into the world of improv. I studied and worked tirelessly, dreaming of an apartment that wasn’t mistaken for a coat closet. I hustled my way into jobs both in front and behind the camera, aiming for the big leagues. Tom Cruise, the master of stunts, had a website outlining the steps to become a stunt performer. So, naturally, I printed it out and began my training by leaping off my couch.
Before I knew it, I was doubling celebrities and models like Cara Delevigne. The only downside? My paycheck didn’t quite match their star status. But hey, I wasn’t one to back down from a challenge. I channeled my energy into winning, becoming a four-time Canadian national stick and knife fighting champion (WEKAF) and even holding the prestigious title of Provincial Boxing Champion (OBA). Who knew a pint-sized Canadian could pack such a punch? Sorry, not sorry.
But my journey wasn’t just about fighting in the ring. I realized that the real battle was for people like me—underpaid and underrepresented women in the industry. So, I took on the mini skirt and encouraged equal pay and upgrades while my male counterparts were fully padded and fully dressed. I searched for women producers, directors, and stunt coordinators but found a shortage. That’s when I decided to combine my self-taught skills, seek out mentors, and make my own films.
My hard work paid off. I won the coveted Best Comedy award at the 2023 Make Me Laugh Film Festival, snagged a prestigious Hermès International award for Best PSA, and earned myself a well-deserved mentorship with the Canadian Media Producers Association (CMPA) and Pinewood Studios LIFT emerging filmmakers program. I went on to produce, direct, and write over forty national radio campaigns, television commercials, and PSAs. I became an advertising powerhouse, selling products nobody knew they needed.
My talents didn’t stop there. I became a force to be reckoned with in the literary world. My first book, “Lenny Peed on That!,” is now available in more countries than you can count on both hands. With each success, my confidence grew.
With my sights set on Hollywood—well, West Hollywood—I embarked on a journey of connections and community-building during the COVID era. Even my first Uber driver had scripts stashed in his car, so I knew I had to step up my game. I became an active member and volunteer at San Diego Writers Ink and Slow Lightning Lit. I enrolled in UCLA and Writing Pad, honing my skills alongside some of the brightest minds in the industry.
You’ll soon find my work published in a new anthology, standing proudly alongside my mentor, Peggy Dobreer. I will also be included in a wild chapbook with a group of “Wild Women” led by the legendary Judy Reeves. But that’s not all — I’m a featured speaker with the Scriptwriters Network Los Angeles, sharing my wisdom with aspiring writers. Plus, I’m a regular Confabulater, entertaining audiences with tales of terrible jobs, disastrous dates, monumental triumphs, and the ins and outs of being a new “Angel with Wings.”
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
My journey has been filled with numerous struggles and challenges. It all started when I made the decision to run away from home, which meant missing out on the typical experience of being sent off to college. However, this detour allowed me to become a fighter, advocating passionately for open education — that education is accessible to all, regardless of economic status.
I’m just over 40 now, and I’ve had to fight tooth and nail for every inch of progress. But through it all, I’ve remained steadfast in maintaining my integrity and staying true to my values. I’ve faced tough choices along the way, walking away from nude scenes without justification and standing up against stunt performers and coordinators who lacked any sense of morals.
My dedication has always been to the art of filmmaking, even if my projects have been primarily short films thus far. I strive to create productions that promote safe and equitable sets where everyone feels respected and valued. My screenplays are crafted to have more substantial roles for women and break through age barriers, championing inclusivity and diversity in storytelling.
While the road hasn’t been easy, I’m immensely proud of how far I’ve come. I’ve fought against the odds and remained committed to my principles, never compromising my values along the way. Each obstacle has only fueled my determination to make a positive impact and hopefully a chuckle or two.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
First and foremost, I am a champion stick and knife fighter representing Canada. Yes, I wield blades with the precision of a comedy ninja. I like to keep things interesting. Alongside my martial arts prowess, I’m also known for my infectious sense of humor. Laughter is my secret weapon, and I’m always armed with a killer punchline.
I also have a knack for jumping off buildings. Whether it’s soaring through the air like a plummeting Canadian Goose, I’ve mastered the art of thrilling audiences with my daredevil antics.
What truly sets me apart from others is my unwavering commitment to helping individuals realize their dreams. I’m a firm believer in equal opportunities and I advocate passionately for inclusivity in the industry. I use my platform to uplift others, break down barriers, and ensure that everyone has a chance to shine.
Do you have any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
I was a bright-eyed 9-year-old with big dreams of spreading joy through the power of presents. The only problem, I had no money, just creativity, so I decided to give the gift of storytelling.
I became the Stephen King of birthdays and special holidays like Christmas. I crafted personalized tales for each recipient, including my grandmother.
For her birthday, I crafted a ghost story about the spooky graveyard near her house. It was a glorious mash-up of “The Shining” and “Pet Sematary” – a masterpiece, or so I thought. That was until Grandma found it a tad disturbing. So disturbing, in fact, that they packed their bags and moved!
That experience taught me the invaluable lesson of knowing your audience. Not everyone will appreciate your work, and for some time, I transitioned into cat poetry. Because nothing says, “I’m not creepy, I promise,” quite like rhyming couplets about fluffy feline friends.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.chickenandcat.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/j9writes
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/j9writes
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/j9parkinson
Image Credits
Stephanie Pehar (Knife shot and Medals) Bonnallie Brodeur (Steve Martin Cruel Shoes imitation image with Hat)
