Anderson Group Public Relations 323.655.1008 [email protected]
JENNIFER RIKER
JENNIFER RIKER BIOGRAPHY
Jennifer is a working, professional actress with over 30 years in the industry. The multi-faceted and talented actress shows her dark side in CW’s hit series “Black Lightning” as Dr. Helga Jace, “Black Lightning’s” newest no nonsense villain. Riker’s character, Dr. Jace is a calculated, potentially sociopathic scientist who first appeared in 1983’s Batman and the Outsiders #1 comic as an ally to the Outsiders, but shows no mercy in Season 2 of “Black Lightning.” Upon release, the show became an overnight success, premiering as CW’s #1 new series with COLLIDER’s continual praise, “the series continues to be one of the most thought-provoking on television” and additional rave reviews from The New York Times, IGN, The New Yorker, and dozens more. Soon to be seen in 20th Century Fox’s action/comedy STUBER, viewers may also recognize Riker from AMC’s “The Walking Dead,” AMC’s “Lodge 49,” USA’s “The Purge,” and NANCY DREW AND THE HIDDEN STAIRCASE (produced by Ellen DeGeneres).
Born and raised in Pennsylvania as the oldest of four siblings, Riker started auditioning for roles at the age of 7, landing a 7UP commercial. Several years later, she landed her first manager while starring on “Wrap Around,” a teen talk show that didn’t shy away from tough topics like anorexia and suicide. After delving into numerous high school plays and spending summers at performing art camps, Riker attended Florida State University and earned a prestigious BFA degree. With a tenacity to master her craft, Riker moved to New York City and auditioned for a 3-year master program, yielding a MFA Degree from the Yale School of Drama. After refining her skills in NYC, Riker moved to LA to land more TV centric roles. In 2015, Riker moved to Atlanta, debuting a short hair style, a fresh attitude, and has been booking non-stop ever since. Her credits also include “Nashville,” “Numb3rs,” “Castle,” “House of Cards,” “Monk,” and “Criminal Minds,” just to name a few. Riker’s reinvention of herself ultimately landed her the wickedly fun recurring role of Dr. Helga Jace on “Black Lightning.” She has worked in a variety of theaters including Yale Rep, Berkeley Rep, and Georgia Shakespeare Festival. She is also a voiceover actor who narrates books for Audible Audiobooks.
When she’s not filming in Atlanta, Riker resides in Florida, where she enjoys teaching, hiking, reading, and perfecting her cinematic craft.
Black Lightning season 2 spoilers: ‘Anything is possible’ Dr Jace star reveals future
BLACK LIGHTNING concludes its second season this evening and will no doubt see Dr. Jace fighting alongside Tobias Whale to take down Jefferson Pierce - and Dr. Jace actor Jennifer Riker has now spoken out about her future in the show.
By CALLUM CRUMLISH PUBLISHED: 04:01, Mon, Mar 18, 2019
Black Lightning closes its second season this week, and will see Jefferson Pierce - better known as Black Lightning (played by Cress Williams) - going up against a number of foes. As tensions rise in Freeland between Jefferson and the number of enemies he is constantly facing, one villain in particular is taking a more subtle approach to evil.
Dr. Helga Jace (Jennifer Riker) has maintained a dastardly position during her time on the show. While she has worked with Dr. Lynn Pierce (Christine Adams), Dr. Jace has kept her evil acts a little secretive. Dr. Jace recently teamed up with Tobias Whale (Marvin “Krondon” Jones III) - Black Lightning’s nemesis. Express.co.uk recently caught up with Jennifer about her role as Dr. Jace and what fans can expect from her character in the future.
On the final episode, Jennifer announced: “I’d say that [Dr. Jace] is making her way forward now that she’s aligned herself with Tobias and Cutter. “I mean I can assure you it’s going to be grand finale.” She went on: “I do believe [Dr. Jace] has a different arc coming - because the Markovians are coming.” Jennifer went on to hint the Markovia arc would be a huge next step for the show - and may even head towards her character’s death.
Black Lightning season 2: Dr Jace has made some big moves in the last few episodes (Image: NETFLIX)
“I can assure you it’s going to be grand finale” Jennifer Riker
The actor continued: “With the whole Markovia thing - I think you can imagine - it will take a right turn in that direction. “Anything is possible in TV and I suppose Helga can die at any moment and just get blown up!” However she went on to add: “But, you know a lot of these characters can return when they die! It’s anyone’s guess.” On the final episode of the season, she went on to say: “I think the fans are going to be incredibly satisfied. I’ll leave it at that.” Previously Jennifer spoke about taking on the role of the evil doctor.
Black Lightning season 2: Jefferson is sure to see a number of battles come his way (Image: NETFLIX)
Black Lightning season 2: Dr Jace and Tobias have recently teamed up - but will it last? (Image: NETFLIX)
She explained to prepare for the role she was told Dr. Jace was similar to Hannibal Lecter. To this, she was ecstatic: “That movie is my absolute favourite, so I was absolutely overjoyed to hear that!
“For an actor, that is kind of a dream role to sink your teeth in to. I got to explore a different psychology and different behaviour.” Jennifer concluded: “I’m ashamed to say it’s quite easy - and I love it!”
Black Lightning is available on Netflix.
https://www.express.co.uk/showbiz/tv-radio/1101450/black-lightning-season-2-cast-dr-helga-jace- jennifer-riker-flash-netflix-dc-finale
###
'Black Lightning' Season 2: Jennifer Riker channels Hopkins' Hannibal Lecter for her role as Dr Helga Jace Jennifer Riker will be showing off her dark side in The CW's hit series 'Black Lightning' as Dr. Helga Jace, the series' newest villain
By Rachel Windsor
March 18, 2019
Tom Fahey
Jennifer Riker has featured in prominent series like 'The Walking Dead', 'House of Cards', 'Castle' and in movies like 'The Purge.' Now the talented actress will be showing off her dark side in The CW's hit series 'Black Lightning' as Dr. Helga Jace, the series' newest villain.
Riker's character, Dr. Jace is potentially a sociopath scientist who appeared previously in the Batman comics in 1983. Apart from that, Dr. Jace also appeared in the Outsiders comic as an ally to the Outsiders, but she shows no mercy in the second season of "Black Lightning."
Tom Fahey
In an exclusive interview with MEA WorldWide (MEAWW), Riker revealed how she prepared for her character and how familiar she is with the Black Lightning comics, especially her character. Dr. Jace is one of our favorite characters on the series, and one can't help but love to hate her.
Talking to us about how she embodied her character and what her approach was, Riker said: "When I learned I got the role, it was very much sold to me as a Hannibal Lecter type. I should preface this by stating that my absolute favorite film ever is 'Silence of the Lambs.' I had studied Sir Anthony in that role for so many years that I instinctively understood what was being asked of me. You can imagine my enthusiasm and sheer delight on the other end of the phone as my agent told me the news. Someone like Dr. Jace truly believes she is advancing science for the benefit of the world. She even says that she is one of only three in the world who can do what she does. So, self- confidence, fastidiousness, a non-emotional/'just-the-facts' attitude and a love of the work, are what I aimed to focus on rather than how others perceive her. Her passion is palpable to me. An actor must identify on some level and empathize with the character they portray so there is no judgment on the part of the actor. The fans see Dr. Jace as having been responsible for death, with no remorse, and I see it through her lens as 'I saved lives, and because of my acumen and intelligence we have even more data!'"
Tom Fahey
Dr. Jace has done some despicable things over the years, so we asked Riker if she tries to justify her actions in order to make her relatable or does she embrace her evilness as it is, to which she replied: "Yes, I embrace her spirit and point of view. She is delicious to portray, not gonna lie." We also asked Riker how familiar she was with the Black Lightning comics, especially her character Dr. Jace before she joined the show. And how much research was involved in making her come to life, or if she just tried and focus only on the script?
"I was unfamiliar with the entire genre and DC Universe. I barely watched cartoons as a child nor did I read comic books, so this was all very new to me. Luckily, there are some super fans on the crew and one, in particular, educated me quickly and even brought in the magazine where Dr. Jace was featured on the cover in the ’80s and he explained to me about The Outsiders and Masters of Disaster and taught me words like meta-human, pods, Markovia, etc. Ha! I’m not saying I would pass the exam today, or anything, but it is an ongoing education. The writers have been very helpful whenever I needed a little more background. I try not to overwhelm myself with it all and just play within my immediate storyline. The writers, producers, and directors have taken obvious liberties with Dr. Jace’s image and did change some of the storylines to fit with the story they wanted to tell, so some of my research went out the window," Riker revealed.
Tom Fahey
Finally, talking about her future projects, Riker said: "I will also be appearing in the upcoming film 'Stuber,' with David Bautista, and again, I get to be a bit of comic relief. I am very much looking forward to continuing as Dr. Jace in season three."
'Black Lightning' season 2 airs on The CW. Check your local listings for more information.
https://meaww.com/black-lightning-jennifer-riker-batman-comics-season-2-dr-helga-jace-interview- the-cw
###
By: Bryna Kramer January 10, 2019
You might not recognize her name, but Jennifer Riker has been in the acting game for a while with roles on The Walking Dead, Nashville, House of Cards and Castle. Now she is showing off her acting chops as Dr. Helga Jace on The CW’s Black Lightning. I got the chance to talk with her about how she got into acting originally, whether or not she was familiar with her character, Dr. Jace, before she joined Black Lightning, what she nerds out about and so much more. Keep reading to see what she had to say.
Tell me a little bit about how you got into acting.
I am very lucky in that when I showed an aptitude and interest in performing as a little girl, my parents rallied behind me straight away and enrolled me in The Young People’s Theatre Co. of the Delaware Valley, in the bucolic town of Bucks County, Pa. I landed the lead in the first-grade production of The Little Red Hen and (as a recovering “people pleaser”) was instantly attracted to the applause and laughter from the audience. That began my love affair with performing and specifically comedy. As I became older, I became obsessed with such genius pioneers as Carol Burnett, Lucille Ball, and Gilda Radner. I was in all the school plays and was sent to performance arts camps during the summers. At twelve, I landed my first agent and my mother would drive me into NYC for auditions without a second thought. As I said, [I was] very lucky.
Do you have an acting “bucket list” of things you still want to accomplish in your career? If so, what are some of the things on it?
I would have to say that I am doing it right now. The role of Dr. Helga Jace on Black Lightning is a dream come true, and I am in absolute heaven getting to portray her. I love period pieces and anything “based on a true story,” so probably portraying a person in history would be a giant thrill. I am particularly drawn to the 1920s and the Renaissance Period. I adore accents, so throw on a dialect and I’d be over the moon.
Let’s talk about Black Lightning. What was your audition process like?
I was asked to put myself on tape, which is how most auditions are done now. Gone are the days with genuine human interaction anymore. I much prefer being in the room and getting the opportunity to create a relationship with the casting directors, but today things move so much quicker, and many industry professionals tend to work remotely and electronically. So, after the initial tape is sent off, you are many times asked to tape a second time as a “callback” and given some new direction to work with. There are times when I am booked straight from tape and no in-person callback. This was one of the times where I was booked from the first tape I sent.
Tell me about your character, Dr. Jace. What’s she like and how does she fit into the story?
She is a brilliant (albeit sociopathic) computational scientist (only one of three in the world who can do what she does) who conducted 11 unauthorized and illegal experiments on Freeland’s Green Light pod kids resulting in 10 of them losing their feet and one dying. She was imprisoned for this but was recruited by the ASA to use her expertise in analyzing a way to free the kids from the pods. Because she can’t be trusted, an implant was placed in her ankle that will shock her if she gets out of line. As she advances in her research more of the pod kids die, but as Dr. Jace unapologetically says, “At least we have data now.”
Were you familiar with the comics, and specifically Dr. Jace, before you joined the show? If not, did you go back and read any of the ones she was featured in as research?
I was not. The Digital Imaging Technician on the show, Justin Paul Warren, brought in a copy of The OUTSIDERS comic book from his extensive collection to get me to sign the copy. It was thrilling to see considering I had no image of her in my mind other than her description. There she was on the cover with her spectacles, grey bun and lab coat. They obviously took liberties with her image from that of the 80s. I am on a webpage with a huge fan base who are constantly uploading images and posts so I am learning day by day about the comic universe.
I know you’ve done most of your scenes, up until this point, with Christine Adams. What has it been like working with her?
I am not shooting as much with her as my storyline has shifted, but she was a true delight and great comfort to me on set. I was the new person in that world, and she made sure I felt right at home. I am so thankful for her mentorship. Everyone on set is so exceptional at what they do; it’s a master class daily.
Last time we saw Dr. Jace, half of the Green Light pod babies ended up dying and Dr. Jace counted it as a win. I know you’re in a few episodes when the show returns in January, so what will Dr. Jace be up to?
I am dying to tell but think you should just tune in for yourself to see all of her new antics. You won’t be disappointed! We are back Monday, January 21st which is episode 10 and I will appear next, a week later, on episode 11.
In terms of other projects, I know you’re also starring in Nancy Drew and The Hidden Staircase, which is set to come out sometime next year. What can you tell us about the movie and what your experience shooting it was like?
I had so much fun on that set. It’s such a small world. The stand-in for me on that movie is currently my stand-in on Black Lightning. Katt Shea, the director, was so giving with her cast. She wore two hats – that of director but also acting coach. Many directors don’t get involved in the coaching aspect on-set. I really appreciated her desire to work with the talent to help achieve her desired effect. It was a playful set and I felt very encouraged to try many things.
Last question – we’re called Talk Nerdy With Us because we all have an inner-nerd so what is something you nerd out about?
Oh boy… where do I start? I am a huge nerd. I love words and grammar, so I often catch typos and spelling mistakes even in published books and magazine articles. The nerd in me wants so much to write to the publishing company to let them know, but that borders on obnoxious, yes? Other nerd interests are dissecting notes and profiles of fragrances. If I was not an actor I may have gone on to study olfactory sciences, as in being a fragrance chemist. I am nerding out to all things Bourbon. Oh, also forensic science and forensic psychology… oh, and mitochondrial DNA research…ugh. Now, see what you’ve done.
Black Lightning airs Tuesdays at 9/8c on The CW. Make sure you follow Jennifer on Twitter and Instagram.
Photo Credit: Tom Fahey
https://talknerdywithus.com/2019/01/10/exclusive-interview-with-black-lightnings-jennifer-riker/
###
JENNIFER RIKER
January 16, 2019
The guest for episode 298 is a very talented actress that can be seen on the CW show “Black Lightning” Jennifer Riker! Things talked about in this episode were catching the acting bug, people pleasing, fun characters, getting work, getting into character, coming down from character, favorite drinks, finding teaching, car rides, New York living, stage vs tv/film acting, audition horror stories and getting on the show “Black Lightning”.
http://castingfortwo.com/post/182107404644 ###
Five Facts About Jennifer Riker
By: Sammi Turano January 16, 2019
Jennifer Riker is probably one of the busiest women in Hollywood at the moment. She is currently starring in Black Lightening as Dr. Helga Jace and has two new projects coming out this year— Stuber and Nancy Drew and the Case of the Hidden Staircase.
TVGrapevine recently talked to Jennifer in an exclusive interview. Below are some of the highlights from our chat.
1. Jennifer loves her role of Dr. Helga Jace on Black Lightening. She first appeared on the show earlier this season and pretty much had us at hello. Jennifer describes her character as a ‘Hannibal Lecter’ type who is going to return from jail with an exciting storyline. (One that you will have to tune in to see—but one that I can promise fans will LOVE!) She adds that there is also a cliffhanger that will be a pivotal moment for both herself and the show.
2. She loves the fact that she gets to play a villain because it is the opposite of the kinds of roles she usually plays. She thinks that playing a dark, female villain is incredibly empowering and that it is a dream come true to be able to do so. She looks at Robin Wright’s character from House of Cards and the Queen from Once Upon a Time as inspiration.
3. In addition to playing Dr. Helga Jace, Jennifer can be seen in Nancy Drew and the Case of the Hidden Staircase. The movie, which is produced by Ellen DeGeneres, is a modern twist on the classic story written by Carolyn Keene. Jennifer plays a drunk hotel clerk that Nancy and her friends need a key from during their investigation. She enjoyed the fact that she got to play a ‘trashy drunk’ who is not as refined as some of her usual characters. She loved working with the cast and crew and had nothing but nice things to say about everyone.
One of her favorite things about filming was the fact the director was really into coaching them into being the best version of their characters.
4. Jennifer also can soon be seen in the movie Stuber with David Bautista and Mira Sorvino. The movie tells the story about a man who recruits his Uber driver to join him in an epic adventure. She plays an uppity art gallery worker, which she says is the type of role she is used to playing. 5. If she weren’t an actress/acting professor, Jennifer would love to work in the fragrance industry. Her dream job would be to live in France and work in the lab, picking out the different notes for perfumes.
Check out Jennifer in Black Lightening on CW. Check your local listings for showtimes.
https://tvgrapevine.com/2019/01/five-facts-about-jennifer-riker/
###
Jan 17, 2019
Actress Jennifer Riker opens up about playing Dr. Jace during season 2 of CW's "Black Lightning".
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7g7j1tVzBX4
###
TOM FAHEY
Jennifer Riker – Black Lightning
By starrymag | March 18, 2019 By: Jessica Wolff
Q) What can you tease about the “Black Lightning” season finale?
A) Oh man, I don’t know if I’m allowed to. I don’t know. I just think that there’s going to be a great cliffhanger at the end. I think the fans will be satisfied with it and excited. That’s about all.
Q) Were you a fan of the show before joining the cast?
A) No, actually I hadn’t. The genre was pretty new to me and it’s been a great education. I’ve learned a lot because we have some real super fans in the crew. When I first got the part, I remember our design technician, he came up to me with The Outsiders 1988 cover of the comic book with my character on the front of it. He wanted me to sign it, but then he explained to me the Masters of Disaster. He introduced me to the Justice League, Young Justice. It’s been quite an education. It’s exciting now that I understand my [character’s] backstory. Consequently, now I’ve been watching some of the other CW shows. I’ve learned quite a bit about the DC Universe.
Q Were you familiar with the cast prior to joining the show?
A) Not on a personal level. I knew their work. Like Cress [Williams] and James Remar, I followed their work as well as some of the directors like Robert Townsend. But, no, I hadn’t worked with anyone or met any of them prior to the day I started shooting.
Q) With the recent revelation that Agent Odell knows the truth about the Pierce family, how much do you think Dr. Jace knows or how close do you think she is to finding out the truth?
A) We alluded to it in Episode 3 that, “Wouldn’t it be amazing if there was a whole family of metas?” Of course, you see Lynn’s (Christine Adams) reaction to that. Because we haven’t revisited that yet and Dr. Jace is all about aligning herself with Tobias (Marvin ‘Krondon’ Jones III) I think it’s safe to say that they don’t dangle any carrots without circling back to it. I think it’s safe to imagine that would be addressed in the next season.
Q) Will we learn more about Dr. Jace’s history with Tobias, the ASA or the Markovians next season?
A) I think it’s safe to say, yes.
Q) How do you approach playing a villainous character like Dr. Jace compared to your previous roles?
A) I’m actually having the most fun I’ve ever had as a working actor. I think this character was just a gift from heaven. My favorite movie in the world is Silence of the Lambs and it was pitched to me like a Hannibal Lecter role. You can imagine my enthusiasm when I heard that. As far as approaching it, I think I have to approach it much like Dr. Jace thinks. When an actor’s playing a less than savory character you just have to focus on the ways in which you can be like this person at times. I have to really access the parts where I know what I’m doing even if somebody doesn’t believe in what I’m doing. I’m very meticulous in my work and how I go about ascertaining my data. A criminal doesn’t really think they’re a criminal. They think what they’re doing is justified. I just focus on that and my objective, like any other character on the show, trying to find tactics to deal with your objective ultimately in the end.
Q) Is there anyone in the cast you’d love the opportunity to have more scenes with next season?
A) I’m really, really enjoying working with Tobias, if I’m being honest. It’s just a juicier storyline. I enjoyed my time with Lynn. We had some fabulous sparring at the top of the season. I don’t really see my character aligning too much with anyone else expect Markovians. That would make sense, since I already dropped that Easter egg on you guys. The whole history of the serum with Tobias, the whole idea that Jace thinks they would make the ultimate team, I believe she’s being self- serving. There are those fans who think she’s jealous of Cutter (Kearran Giovanni), but I think she’s trying to win to save herself. I don’t think she worries about anything else. I think she’s so damn good at what she does. As she said, there’s three in the world who can do what she does. She thinks she’s the best.
Q) What was your favorite scene or episode to film this season?
A) It’s coming up on Monday. I really enjoyed when Lynn gave me the smack down. That was pretty awesome to film. But I think the most fun I’ve ever had on this show is this week’s episode.
Q) What are the challenges of filming a special effects heavy show like this compared to other projects you’ve been a part of?
A) That hasn’t happened on anything on my resume. I haven’t dealt with it. I’ve dealt with doing my own stunts, but I haven’t dealt with green screen work and all the special effects like that. It was just so thrilling to see the hologram scene with myself sitting on the bed watching myself with Todd (RJ Cyler) in the jail. That was thrilling for me. I had never been a part of anything like that with any tricks. I’m used to playing very stoic women, very white-collar criminal. I did that on “Castle.” I was a criminal on that show but very by the book. Conniving, but nothing special effects. I also play a lot of doctors, so to see me play something that has special effects is just a thrill for me because it’s not a world I’m familiar with.
Q) Are there any other projects you’re currently working on?
A) I’m in a film, opening Friday called Nancy Drew and the Hidden Staircase based on the Nancy Drew books. I don’t know if you were into them as a child, but that was really exciting for me. I don’t usually get to play trashy characters like blue collar, so that was a thrill for me. I’m in a movie coming out in July called Stuber with Dave Bautista. I’m a bit of comic relief in that. Right now, I’m also a professor at Florida State University and I’m teaching on-camera acting at the film school. That occupies a lot of my time when I’m not on set.
http://starrymag.com/jennifer-riker-black-lightning/
###
Jennifer Riker of 'Black Lightning,' and 'House of Cards' Gives an illuminating interview with Brandon Schreur
4 WEEKS AGO by BRANDON SCHREUR
While Jennifer Riker has certainly had a busy past couple of years, she shows no signs of slowing down now.
The popular actress first made a name for herself by appearing in a number of hit TV shows like Law and Order, Castle and Monk.
She then began booking re-appearing roles on Mad Men and Nashville, while also appearing in episodes of The Purge, The Walking Dead and House of Cards.
In 2018, Riker scored the role of the villainous Dr. Helga Jace in the second season of CW's Black Lightning.
With additional upcoming appearances in Nancy Drew and the Hidden Staircase and 20th Century Fox’s action/comedy Stuber, Riker caught up with Brandon Schreur of Stars and Celebs to talk about what's going on in her career.
Read the full interview here.
Brandon Schreur: First off, I would love to hear about some of your experiences on Black Lightning — a show which is really incredible, and you are also incredible on. Can you tell me how you first became involved with the show?
Jennifer Riker: Thank you so much. I am in heaven. This is a dream (role) come true for me. I was asked to put myself on tape, which is how most auditions are done now. Gone are the days where actors are in the audition room with genuine human interaction anymore unless you are called back and are being seriously considered. I much prefer being in the room and getting the opportunity to create a relationship with the casting directors, but today things move so much quicker and many industry professionals tend to work remotely and electronically. So, after the initial tape is sent off, you are many times asked to tape a second time as a “callback” and given some new direction to work with. There are times when I am booked straight from tape and no in-person callback. This was one of the times where I was booked straight from the first tape.
BS: Did you know anything about the comics/character prior to your involvement?
JR: I did not, no. Ironically, Sci-fi isn’t a genre I’ve given much attention to before. The Digital Imaging Technician on the show, Justin Paul Warren, brought in a copy of The Outsiders comic- book from his extensive collection to get me to sign the copy. It was thrilling to see considering I had no image of her in my mind other than her description. There she was on the cover with her spectacles, grey bun and lab coat. They obviously took liberties with her image from that of the 80’s. I am on a webpage with a huge fan base who are constantly uploading images and posts, so I am learning day by day about the comic universe.
BS: Taking on a role like this is obviously a pretty big deal, given that you get to play this extreme, intimidating kind of villain. How do you prepare for a role like that?
JR: I focus on the character’s main objective in life. For Dr. Jace, it is computational science; she is driven and knows she is the best at what she does in her field. She has the utmost confidence, and, in her mind, this gives her bragging rights. I focus on the character's given circumstances, main objectives and known truths in the storyline, and then align them with what’s as true for me in my own life. In that way, it is easy for me to empathize with her and understand her point of view.
BS: What is it like joining Black Lightning during season two of the production, given that season one was such a huge hit? Is the whole cast and crew pretty calm and welcoming, or is it super intense and hectic as everyone is trying to maintain the same level of quality?
JR: I am working with the kindest, classiest, most gracious industry pros. It is not lost on me what a privilege it is to be learning from and working alongside them. Each episode, each working day for that matter, is a master class. I have learned so much and am extremely grateful that they all welcomed me in to their family.
BS: Without spoiling anything, can fans of Dr. Jace expect more from her anytime in the future — whether that’s in a third season of Black Lightning or some other show?
JR: Oh yes! There are two more episodes she appears in before the end of season three and a beautiful cliffhanger for the fans.
Photographer: Tom Fahey
BS: I’d love to hear about some of your experiences on other shows, too, given that you’ve been involved with so much. Can you tell me what it was like coming onto the production of House of Cards and The Purge?
JR: Appearing on House of Cards was a true bucket list for me. I am a major fan of many of the actors on that show and have followed their careers closely. I even chopped my hair off because of Claire Underwood. I was so drawn to that character (I tend to get cast very much in her spirit) that I decided to reinvent my brand and to my absolute delight I got many jobs as soon as that happened. I am glad I followed my instinct! The day I filmed on set was with two uber-talented actors on both screen and stage, Patricia Clarkson and Jane Atkinson. We learned that we three are alumnae of the Yale School of Drama. It was quite thrilling to be acting alongside these heavy hitters and we took a group photo that to this day remains one of the highlight photos of my work on set. I aim to learn something from every set I work on and every actor I play alongside. I can train all I want but nothing beats the on the job training.
BS: Some of your first involvement in television dates back to things like Law and Order, Monk, Castle, etc. How does doing something like that compare to your reoccurring role on Black Lightning?
JR: The beauty of appearing on several episodes of one show is the extent to which you can truly explore the characters psyche. Many times, as a guest on an episode, it is very much doing what is expected of your character and getting out of everyone’s way…not slowing any of the immediate cast down. When you are creating the character for the first time you are really collaborating with the directors and writers. The collaboration for me is the best part.
BS: You’re also slated to appear in a few upcoming projects — Nancy Drew and the Hidden Staircase and Stuber. What can fans expect from you out of those roles/what can you say that’ll start getting us excited about those films?
JR: In Nancy Drew and the Hidden Staircase, which opens in March, I played a drunken motel clerk which allowed me to exercise my comic sensibilities. Being directed by a real actor’s director, Katt Shea, was a real treat as well as working with such a talented cast. I will also be appearing in Stuber opening sometime this year (though when I am not certain) and play a snobby art gallery patron. Both were a fun departure from roles I typically tend to book.
BS: Is there anything else you're working on in the future that you’re super excited to plug? Or anything else you’d like to add about some of your experiences in the industry in general?
JR: I am also on the Teaching Faculty at Florida State Universities College of Motion Picture where I teach an on-camera acting class to the BFA theatre students. I absolutely love what I do and find it an incredibly enriching experience.
BS: Where can people follow you on social media?
JR: Instagram: @officialjenniferriker
Facebook - actorriker
My website: www.jenniferriker.com
https://starsandcelebs.com/2019/02/jennifer-riker-of-black-lightning-and-house-of-cards-gives-an- illuminating-interview-with-brandon-schreur/
###
The doctor is IN! The electric Jennifer Riker is here to chat about her role as the evil Dr. Helga Jace on the CW hit, Black Lightning! PLUS – we’ll talk about her upcoming role in Dave Bautista’s feature film, Stuber – which I can only assume is my life story! Photo courtesy The Anderson Group, Tom Fahey Images TM & copyright © The CW, DC Comics
“Like” Jennifer on Facebook Follow Jennifer on Instagram Stuff you heard on the show: William Shatner on Tour Wizard World Cleveland
DATE: MARCH 2, 2019
http://comicbookcentral.net/tag/jennifer-riker/
###
Interview with talented CW’s “Black Lightning” actress Jennifer Riker
January 31, 2019
Check our interview with multi-faceted and talented actress Jennifer Riker who shows her dark side in CW’s hit series “Black Lightning” (Season 2 is now officially here – airing Tuesdays 9/8c on the CW) as Dr. Helga Jace, “Black Lightning’s” newest no nonsense villain. Riker’s character, Dr. Jace is a calculated, potential sociopath scientist who first appeared in 1983’s Batman and the Outsiders #1 comic as an ally to the Outsiders, but shows no mercy in Season 2 of “Black Lightning.” Season 1 of the show became an overnight success, premiering as CW’s #1 new series with COLLIDER’s continual praise, “the series continues to be one of the most thought-provoking on television” and additional rave reviews from The New York Times, IGN, The New Yorker, and dozens more. Soon to be seen in NANCY DREW AND THE HIDDEN STAIRCASE (produced by Ellen DeGeneres), and 20th Century Fox’s action/comedy STUBER, viewers may also recognize Riker from AMC’s “The Walking Dead,” AMC’s “Lodge 49,” and USA’s “The Purge.”
Hi Jennifer, please tell us a little about you?
A fine Swiss watch wound a little too tight running five minutes too fast. Nostalgic for things that haven’t even happened yet.
Describe yourself in 3 words?
Refined. Passionate. Quirky.
Name one of your strengths?
I’m an empath. It assists in my personal relationships as well as professional ones but very much so in my acting career. I feel things deeply. I’m also what’s referred to as an HSP: highly sensitive person. All my sensitivities are keen but mostly my olfactory sense. I have a nose like a bloodhound!
How’s a typical day in your life?
I enjoy routine and ritual. They keep me grounded in the chaos going on around me. I start each day with a strong cup of black coffee. So, I like to end my days similarly with tea and contemplation in my journal. I try to get in those 8 glasses of water. Looking at what I just wrote…that’s a lot of liquid, lol. No wonder I am always running to the loo throughout the day. Honestly? There is nothing typical to an actor’s day.
Who is your biggest supporter?
That would be a five-person tie for this one.
How did you get started in the industry?
I was chosen to play the lead in the first-grade production of The Little Red Hen. I had never heard of the word “audition” •before but I wanted to be on stage and after that experience I was addicted to the feeling of bringing an audience to laughter and applause. Soon after, my parents helped me obtain professional representation. I was a member of a local theatre company and began taking classes, auditioning and doing the school shows through high school.
Do you have or had acting classes?
Many. I received my BFA degree from FSU and my MFA degree from Yale School of Drama. Â After those classes I continued with classes in both NYC and LA. Now, I teach the classes. Â When I am not acting I am on the teaching faculty in the College of Motion Picture at Florida State University (my alma mater) and I teach the BFA acting students On-Camera acting.
What is the best and worst part of being an actress?
Best: the different psychologies I get to inhabit and stories I get to tell. Worst: the unpredictability of the work…the instability of the career.
How do you balance your personal life with your acting life?
Exactly. Lol.
Best advice ever given?
Feelings are not Facts.
How do you prepare for a role?
Read. Gather inspiration. Observe the world and people for detail. Read some more. Daydream. Play in rehearsal and explore all options. Read, again.
Now tell us about your work on CW’s “Black Lightning?”
I am in heaven portraying this role. It is a true dream come true. She is the most delicious role I have gotten to play in a very long time. Actors will fantasize about an ideal role often, and for me, this is it.
Dr. Helga Jace is a brilliant (albeit sociopathic) computational scientist (only one of three in the world who can do what she does) who conducted 11 unauthorized and illegal experiments on Freeland’s Green Light pod kids resulting in 10 of them losing their feet and one dying. She was imprisoned for this but was recruited by the ASA to use her expertise in analyzing a way to free the kids from the pods. Because she can’t be trusted, an implant was placed in her ankle that will shock her if she gets out of line. As she advances in her research more of the pod kids die, but as Dr. Jace unapologetically says, “at least we have data now.”• What other projects you have been part of?
At the same time I booked Black Lightning I also booked and filmed roles on “The Walking Dead,”• “The Purge”• and “Lodge 49”• all within the same month.
What kind of roles do you like or would like to play and why?
I am enamored with period pieces. I love the 1920-40’s, the 18th and 19th centuries and I adore doing dialects. I like women who have to overcome struggles. I tend to play the “thinking man’s woman”• and “white collar”• women so a departure of that would be fantastic. I enjoy comedy very much and am surprised my career hasn’t reflected much to this point. I also like dark comedy…British humor.
Which role has been the most challenging and which one is your favorite?
My favorite is Dr. Jace. Every role has its certain challenges but none of those roles were in TV and film. My most challenging roles were in the theatre to be sure.
What is next for Jennifer Riker in 2019?
I have five more episodes airing of “Black Lightning”• beginning Monday Jan. 28th. I have two films coming out: Nancy Drew and the Hidden Staircase and a film called Stuber. “Black Lightning”• Season 3 picks back up in June and will air this fall.
Who is your favorite Actor/Actress? And why?
I think Daniel Day Lewis is my favorite. For me, watching him is a master class. I mean I have so many favorites but in the interest of time and space…he is my tippy top.
3 things you can’t leave your house without?
Coffee, my bag, and that damn cell phone.
What music do you like?
I’m pretty much stuck in the 80’s.
Your idea of a perfect Sunday is?
Not speaking all day.
What do you like to watch on TV?
“World News Tonight”• with David Muir. Documentaries. PBS’ “Finding Your Roots”• hosted by Henry Louis Gates, Jr. I love that show!!!
What is your favorite healthy food?
Avocado toast. Celery in peanut butter. This recipe I found of White Corona Beans and Kale.
And your favorite cheat food?
Ice cream. I am in love with chocolate or mint chocolate chip Mochi from Whole Foods.
How do you see yourself in 5 years? Doing exactly what I am doing now…but more!
Do you support any charities?
The causes I care deeply about are centered around elderly abuse and neglect. I would like to bring more awareness to the elderly population, whom I consider “the forgotten”• when in reality we all are headed towards that population and it boggles how this country doesn’t make more of a priority towards inclusivity and integration in the community. We sort of stick the elders away (out of sight) because aging isn’t sexy and pay someone else to babysit them and in many cases aren’t being given standard care. In far too many cases there is hospital and senior living facility neglect. In countries like Denmark, Sweden, Norway, the elderly are dignified living amongst college students in some instances or the facility is painted and designed to look like the elder’s former front door entrance for those with dementia, etc.. In the UK there are wonderful programs for the senior most and youngest population play dates and many of them form integral bonds and friendships. I spent times as an activities coordinator in a senior living facility in Atlanta because I wanted to see up close and personal how this marginalized group was in fact treated. My passion only grew during that experience. As you can see this matters greatly to me.
Where we can follow you?
Instagram: @officialjenniferriker
My website: jenniferriker.com
Facebook: @actorriker
Quote: “Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It’s not just in some of us; it’s in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.”• – Marianne Williamson.
Holiday Destination: Greece – Santorini, Mykonos, Corfu, Athens
Drink: Bourbon
Celebrity Crush: Viggo Mortensen
Song: Anything Sting sings.
Sports Team: Eagles and Phillies
Movie: Silence of the Lambs
http://www.naludamagazine.com/jennifer-riker-interview
###
PODCAST: Jennifer Riker
She plays Dr Helga Jace in Black Lightning talks about that role plus roles in House Of Cards, Law And Order and an upcoming Nancy Drew And The Hidden Staircase. Visit her official site.
https://scifitalk.com/2019/03/20/podcast-jennifer-riker/
###
Interview: Actress ‘Jennifer Riker’ Talks Black Lightning, Her New Nancy Drew
Movie And Stuber
RedCarpetCrash February 10, 2019
Multi-faceted and talented actress Jennifer Riker gets to explore her dark side as Dr. Helga Jace in CW’s hit series “Black Lightning”, Season 2 of which is currently airing Mondays at 9/8c. Riker will soon to be seen in Nancy Drew and The Hidden Staircase (produced by Ellen DeGeneres), and 20th Century Fox’s action/comedy STUBER.
Jennifer was born and raised in Pennsylvania as the oldest of four siblings, she started auditioning for roles at the age of 7, landing a 7 UP commercial. Several years later, she got her first manager while starring on “Wrap Around,” a teen talk show that didn’t shy away from tough topics like anorexia and suicide. Riker attended Florida State University and earned a prestigious BFA degree. With a tenacity to master her craft, Riker moved to New York City and auditioned for a 3-year master program, yielding an MFA Degree from the Yale School of Drama. In 2015, Riker moved to Atlanta, debuting a short hair style, and has been booking non-stop ever since. Viewers may recognize Riker from AMC’s “The Walking Dead,” AMC’s “Lodge 49,” and USA’s “The Purge” to name a few.
http://redcarpetcrash.com/interview-actress-jennifer-riker-talks-black-lightning-her-new-nancy-drew- movie-and-stuber/ ###