Jen Emma Hertel

J.E. Hertel is a producer, actor, director, and writer with roots in small-town Wisconsin. The daughter of an attorney and a community organizer, she developed a passion for storytelling early on, particularly through experimental theater. That passion led her to New York City, where she became a member of the legendary Living Theatre under the direction of Judith Malina. A graduate of NYU with a Master of the Arts, Hertel has had three of her original plays - Reform, Being, and Text/Love Love/Text - produced in off-off Broadway venues. She began her screen career behind the scenes as a PA and stand-in on Gossip Girl, before moving into producing feature films and acting across the board in features, shorts, TV pilots, and stage productions. Hertel has also directed award-winning short films, and continues to develop screenplays for film and television. Whether working behind the camera or in front of it, she thrives on telling meaningful stories in whatever form best serves the project.