Inside the Actors Studio

Acting isn’t all red carpets and perfect takes—it’s audition rooms that feel like Siberia, long days on set, and learning to conjure a dagger out of thin air while the crew waits for lunch. In this episode Ken sits down with actress Jenn Lyon—known for her scene-stealing turns in Claws, Dead Boy Detectives, and Broadway productions—to talk about her career, her new NBC comedy Stumble, and the work it takes to make it all look effortless.

Filmed at the North Fork TV Festival on its 10th anniversary, the conversation weaves through Jenn’s origin story in North Carolina, the importance of set culture, her decision to step away from social media, and why she still loves the physical comedy of running into a doorframe.

Jenn’s latest role as Coach Courtney in Stumble drops her into the high-stakes, bizarrely insular world of competitive junior college cheerleading—a world she describes as “Bad News Bears with higher jumps.” It’s a part that lets her combine sharp dialogue, physical comedy, and the chaotic energy she thrives on.

But beyond the laughs, Jenn opens up about the realities of the industry: the constant hustle, the unpredictability of auditions, and the importance of building a life outside of the spotlight.

Key Takeaways from the Conversation:

The Art and Reality of the Hustle
Even for established actors, roles aren’t simply offered. The industry is about constant auditions, resilience after rejection, and a willingness to take on everything from prestige theater to “slightly bad” projects—because working matters.

Why Set Culture Matters
Jenn contrasts the magic of a crew that feels like family with the challenge of guest-starring on tense sets. On-screen chemistry starts behind the camera.

Stepping Away from Social Media
For her, leaving platforms wasn’t a career risk—it was a mental health decision. The goal: live life without curating it for public consumption.

Comedy as Vulnerability
Jenn sees comedy and drama as two sides of the same coin—both require openness, both connect through truth, and both benefit from a willingness to look ridiculous.

Building a Life Outside the Spotlight
From volunteering at food pantries to holding on to “secret heart” moments that never get posted, she believes a grounded personal life makes you a better performer.

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Why This Conversation Matters:

In a world where actors are often seen only through the lens of their latest role, Jenn Lyon offers a refreshingly unvarnished look at the work, the grit, and the humanity behind a career in entertainment. She reminds us that success in this industry isn’t just about talent—it’s about adaptability, community, and finding meaning outside the applause.

“I just want to work—on great things, on mediocre things, even on slightly bad things. I just love the work.” — Jenn Lyon

Whether you’re an aspiring actor, a fan of sharp, heartfelt comedy, or simply curious about what really happens behind the scenes, this episode delivers wit, wisdom, and a few laugh-out-loud war stories.