Jessica Val Ortiz and her multiple roles in “Spamilton, an American Parody”
With nearly 8 million followers across platforms, comedian, actress and content creator Jessica Val Ortiz is literally depopulating on the web. She started performing when she was only five years old and from there – her words – the art literally bit her for life! She recently played roles in “Spamilton, An American Parody”, a musical parody of the Broadway phenomenon Hamilton. We discovered a practical and smiling woman, able to keep her private life healthy, away from the social spotlight. Let’s see together what she thinks about the future and also about some more important social issues!
Where did your love for acting come from? Have you always wanted to be an actress?
I started performing at the age of five when my mother put me and my sister in a local production of Oliver, we played little workhouse boys! Ever since then I’ve been bitten by the arts, and I have never gotten out of it. I even ended up going to college to pursue my BFA in musical theater!
You recently played the female characters in Hamilton’s parody “Spamilton”. Do you want to tell us about this show? How was your experience on set?
Being able to travel the country and perform in a very goofy show was an absolute dream come true. I made so many friends, explored so many different cities and got to do what I love the absolute most which is performing! I wouldn’t have traded that experience for the world.
Aside from acting, you are a great creator of viral content for your nearly 8 million followers. What relationship do you have with the fans?
I have been creating content for nearly 2 years and it has been a whirlwind experience that has literally changed my life. I get so many positive interactions from my followers, and they even give me suggestions of what they would like to see from me. I try to give my followers exactly what they want when it comes to content. They love the goofy stuff, which I do enjoy filming so much, but I would like to start transitioning into makeup, fashion, and maybe beauty!
This is a topic we always think about people who have so much to do with social media. How do you manage to keep your life separate from internet?
It’s actually not too much of a challenge for me. When I started dating my boyfriend, he told me that he doesn’t want me to put him in my TikTok’s, and I think it’s been super great for our relationship because nothing virtual gets in the way of it. I like to keep my private life, private and so does he. I’m not the type of creator who vlogs or talks about my day, so it’s been very easy for me to create without any drama coming in between my work and relationships.
Nowadays, acting is also a political act. How much do you think the entertainment industry should do to address social issues related to gender and women’s rights more clearly and effectively?
I think it’s very important that actors and performers shed light on their views on our society! Many people at home who idolize these stars are so heavily influenced by their views and opinions. I think Taylor Swift is an excellent example of this. The way she speaks so proudly of how important it is to be a woman is such an incredible thing because she influences so many women in this world by making them feel very empowered. As an influencer, I hope to do the same thing.
Is there a place you’ve always wanted to visit, or any adventurous activity you would like to try?
I have actually never left the country, so I would absolutely love to explore Italy, Spain, or Greece one day!
We know you are passionate about fashion and beauty. What are the best sustainable practices when it comes to body care in your opinion?
I think consistently is the most important element to having great body care! I know that sometimes at night it’s hard to have enough energy to get through the routine, but it so important that you take care of your body every single day! I used to have horrible acne, but now that I’ve made time for a skincare routine every single day, my blemishes have gone down tremendously. I also use retinol now, which has literally changed my life, lol!
You also spend your time helping organizations like the Actors Fund. Can you tell us more about this project?
I’ve been helping raise money through the Actors Fund on my TikTok for almost a year now. The Entertainment Community Fund is a national human services organization meant to meet the needs of the entertainment community with a unique understanding of the challenges involved in a life in the arts. You can help support the entertainment community fund or join as a member to enjoy benefits like access to Broadway House seats and more events listed on their website!
