interview by JANA LETONJA

From comedy to drama, Jessica Pohly is solidifying a name for herself in the entertainment industry through her authentic, original brand of comedy and ability to transition seamlessly to dramatic characters on screen. She can currently be seen in season 5 of FX’s critically acclaimed drama series ‘Fargo’. The series has already been coined by the press as one of the best television series in 2023, with new episodes airing through January 2024. ‘Fargo’ has also just received three Golden Globe Awards nominations.

Jessica, you are starring in the 5th season of the drama series ‘Fargo’. Tell us more about how you got cast on this series and how exciting was that for you?
As castings go, this was very straightforward and a rather short process. Noah seems to know exactly what he wants when he sees it. So it was kind of badda boom badda bing. It was super exciting. I’ve been a ‘Fargo’ fan from the beginning.

With this season airing through January, what can the fans expect from the remaining episodes?
It gets dark. The new season also gets remarkable and wonderful. This season deals with some important themes in a super creative way. I don’t want to give too much away. 

In the series, you portray Agent Myer, who has been assigned to Dot’s case. How would you describe your character and what is the most exciting thing about portraying her?
Meyer isn’t exactly assigned to Dot’s case, she takes it upon herself to pursue it. Agent Meyer comes to the case sideways from an investigation into missing tactical equipment. She and Joaquin are trying to piece together how Dot is involved. It was really satisfying to play an agent working for justice against folks who are trying to skirt the system, or make it up entirely. 

‘Fargo’ has been coined by the press as one of the best television series in 2023 and received 3 Golden Globe Awards nominations. Has the success of the series already started opening new doors for you? 
I sure hope so. It is hard to tell yet, as our industry is slowly coming back from a historic strike, but I look forward to what this year will bring. 

Tell us of your most memorable moment from filming.
My scenes with Juno Temple were especially memorable because she’s one of the greatest actors I’ve ever worked with. Also, there was one morning when it was -6 degrees outside, which was memorable for different reasons.

How did your passion for acting begin? What inspired you to become an actress?
I love storytelling and I think it’s important. I realized early on that I loved the opportunity to see life through different lenses. I did my first play at the end of high school and never really looked back. I think it’s endlessly interesting to dive into new different worlds and create characters who are sometimes totally different than I am. 

Which is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far in acting?
Kindness and patience. So much of what we do in entertainment is a team effort. Working in theater or film, the hours can be long, the work and conditions can be challenging, and I think the number one most important thing is to maintain a good attitude and a sense of humor. It’s just too hard otherwise. 

What are your aspirations for the future of your career?
I’m excited to create more and more substantial characters in the stories I’m a part of. I’m excited to start directing more as well. 

Besides acting, what are your biggest passions in life?
I love animals and I’m really passionate about ways to contribute to a better planet for them. 

Can you share with us some teasers about your upcoming projects?
I wrote and produced my first short film this year. It’s based on a sketch I wrote at The Groundlings in Los Angeles and it’s called ‘The Arrangement’. It’s making festival rounds so keep an eye out for it. Just recently, I won a Best Actress award for it at the LA Underground Film Festival. 

photography JONNY MARLOW