Jennifer Gargano
Impacting Lives
By Andrew Rudder for Pulp Magazine ~ www.pulpmag.net ~ andrew@pulpmag.net

Look from the summits of Totoket and Saltonstall Mountains throughout the beauteous bucolic setting in the small town of North Branford in New Haven County,
And you won’t find a more notable resident, past and present, like the alluring actress Jennifer Gargano who always dreamed of moving to the big city,
And like a young Katrin 'Katie' Holstrom from the 40’s with big city dreams ... opened her eyelids to reveal her arresting, hazel eyes and woke up in the city that never sleeps,
And has since then been progressively honing her craft by coming up the hard way from the very bottom toward the very top of the heaps,
Moving steadily toward the upper echelons of the acting stratosphere with the support of her family ... is the strategy ... of this alluring actress named Jennifer Gargano,
Family is everything ... just ask mob boss Tony Soprano,
But unlike big Tony? ... when ‘shit hits the fan’ ... it is not the gun but her ‘conviction in her own promise’ that she uses as her weapon,
Through various trials and tribulations the strength of her blazon indomitable spirit has been tested and proven, and has never been broken,
Whenever an already unstable situation devolves into utter chaos the loyalty, strength and support of her family and friends have always provided her safe haven,
Her ‘conviction in her own promise’ is unassailable because she was put on this earth for a reason,
Some search their entire lives for it but Jennifer knew right away and since childhood she has always been her own person,
Since childhood her palpitating heart was pulsating to the melodic rhythm of her destined path and she listened,
Followed her heart until it pumped her goals and ambitions to every part of a being that over time has become one-in-a-million,
... Like the odds the pessimists said of her succeeding,
But other people’s definition of success has never been her key to happiness,
She’s never lost sight of what is important so her happiness is the key to her success,
She will always be successful because she loves what she is doing,
So whether she is dancing ...
In sync with her indomitable heartbeat that won’t stop,
Dancing gracefully to the classical aesthetic of ballet or dancing like she is from another planet like Neptune to a Pharrell beat in hip hop,
Her purpose is not to get to a certain place on the floor because she’s doing what she loves and is enjoying each step along the way, 
Learning something new about life day-by-day,
Learning something new about herself through the shared experiences of others everyday ...
Every decision we make affects every facet of every other thing,
So everyday ... when Jennifer interacts with others she never forgets to focus on the little things,
Whether it be lighting up someone’s day with her radiant smile or lending her ear to someone who had a bad day until alas they see the silver linings,
Whether this supernova reflects the light shone on her to other more worthy causes,
Or starring in hit shows like ‘The Sopranos’ and inspiring countless young aspiring actresses,
She touches people striving to do more in life than just survive,
She touches people whose unwavering faith never dies and who strive to feel alive,
This Connecticut born starlet is connecting with people and impacting their lives,
Touching people and impacting lives ...

Jennifer Gargano Interview
Rogue Angels Interview
By Andrew Rudder for Pulp Magazine - www.pulpmag.net - andrew@pulpmag.net

Andrew: It's with great pleasure that I introduce to a professional, alluring actress residing in New York City named Jennifer Gargano, who was originally from a small town in Connecticut called North Branford, “It was a great place to grow up, but ever since I was small I couldn't wait to move to the big city! But my older sister, her husband, and their three beautiful children actually moved into the house I grew up in, so I love visiting them, it’s great to go back to my old house...there's so many memories.”

Jennifer Gargano’s creativity is like a multifaceted diamond and throughout her admirable career thus far she has expressed the many dimensions of her talent primarily through her first love ... acting. Whether this thespian is drawing in the crowds to sold-out theaters in productions like “Where’s My Money” and “Pizza Man”, relying on her professional dance training to dance-up-a-storm in MTV Tr3s, or entertaining the masses while in character in films such as “Gracie” and “Blood, Sweat & Brando”, Jennifer’s colorful spontaneity, raw energy, full-range of emotions, and her refined talent are always on display, “Acting is my career and my true passion. It has been a great deal of hard work.” Jennifer has worked hard to ensure that the different roles she takes on are as challenging and diverse as the mediums in which she chooses to artistically express herself, which has enabled her to hone her craft and provide her with opportunities such as an appearance in David Chase’s award winning HBO show, “The Sopranos”. “I would say, being featured on the final season of the Sopranos was pretty great for me. As an Italian-American its kind of a big deal! I know my dad was so proud when he heard about that! And really, the biggest thing for me is being able to touch people. I get a great deal of love and support from a wide range of people and its really gratifying.”

So what does this talented bella donna enjoy doing when the cameras aren’t rolling? “Acting takes up a great deal of my time, so other than that, I really enjoy my down time! I'm a bit of a homebody. I really enjoy just snuggling up with a good book, or watching an old movie. I am a huge fan of old movies, I swear I should have been born in the 40's! I have a huge appreciation for that era. Other than that, I love to dine out, hit the gym...the usual stuff!”

But as talented as this young arresting actress is ... what makes her standout is her willingness to make a positive impact on people, whether it’s her young nephews and nieces or her countless fans, “That is why I am so passionate about acting, it really can move people. I want to be able to do that on and off screen, and be a positive role model, especially for young women. I would also hope someday to be able to use whatever notoriety I may get to help bring attention to some causes I really believe in like: Children who suffer from Domestic Abuse, Animal Cruelty, and finding a cure for Hepatitis C.”

What else does she want to accomplish during her acting career? “I would love to be the face of a makeup brand or something, I think it would be a lot of fun! Also, somewhere down the road I would love to direct a film. I love being on camera, but I have a huge respect for those behind it. I am very creative and have good vision, so if one day I get the opportunity, I will definitely jump on it!”

Jennifer has taken the time out of her very busy schedule to do this interview with yours truly and I appreciate that ... So on behalf of the Pulp Magazine family whom work extremely hard to bring our loyal readers the very best in informative and entertaining content, I'm very delighted to have you Jennifer and I'm very excited to interview you! I hope that this interview will be the first of many with us and other magazines during your truly illustrious acting career. So without further adieu let us get this interview started!

Andrew: No great journey toward our desired destination in life is accomplished solely by ourselves, so talk a bit about the people in your life who have and continue to support you throughout your blossoming young career as an actor as you continue to make your indelible mark on the sands of time.

Jennifer: My family is very important to me, and I am glad to have their support. We are very close and I definitely value my relationships with them. My mother in particular, has been a huge inspiration to me. She is a very strong woman who has gone through a great deal, and I have a lot of respect for her. I want to make her proud, and it really means a lot to me to have her support. She knows this industry is tough, and often worries about me, but is behind me 100%. I am also very close with my brother and sister, and they have also been very supportive from day one.

Andrew: Wayne W. Dyer is quoted as saying, “When you dance, your purpose is not to get to a certain place on the floor. It’s to enjoy each step along the way.” As you dance, whether it’s ballet or hip hop, what has been some of the steps that you have enjoyed along the way thus far?

Jennifer: I like that quote, I think it’s very wise. That’s very much like the quote: “Life is a journey not a destination”. It really means that life isn’t all about that end point, where you hope to get. It’s about enjoying all your experiences along the way. I believe that everything happens for a reason, and my life has certainly not been a fairy tale. But I wouldn’t take back anything, not even many of the difficult times, because those are what helped to build who I am today. I really appreciate some of the really simple things. Some of my best memories are just home on a summer day with my family on a summer day. We would have cook-outs, and play in the pool, my neighbors and grandparents would come over, we would play back yard baseball, and wait at the end of the driveway for the ice cream truck on Sundays. Those are the times I really cherish…life was so simple back then!

Andrew: When did the candle of thought light up in your mind and helped you to realize that acting for you was so much more than merely an intriguing prospect that you endeavored to try, to becoming a career choice that you’ve now grown to have a vehement passion for?

Jennifer: I think I have always known it. I was born for this. For me it began with dancing, but I knew I was destined to be a performer. I had always longed to act, but in Connecticut there weren’t a great deal of opportunities for Film/TV acting like here in New York. And as soon as I had the opportunity, I made some sacrifices and got out here!!! The moment I took my first class, I was like: “Wow. This IS for me. I want to do this for the rest of my life!”

Andrew: Being convinced to pursue a career in acting is one thing, but actually believing that you possess the requisite talent, focus and drive to succeed in a very tough, unforgiving business is quite another. When did you actually believe that you possessed the requisite intangible qualities and characteristics to make it in the entertainment industry as an actor?

Jennifer: It’s funny. I have this burning passion deep inside me that knows I will make it. I have never doubted it once. Don’t get me wrong, I have shed many tears, and it certainly has not been easy. But I am very tough, and know that it is just part of the process. I really believe in myself. Like they say, “You either have it, or you don’t”, and I DO! It’s really not easy to describe, but you just have to know it in yourself, and if you do, it often translates to other people.

Andrew: What experience do you value more and attain more personal satisfaction from as an actor: the creative process behind an intimate collaboration with a visionary director, producer and cinematographer, brilliant screenplay-writer, experienced actors that you possess a chemistry with, and the rest of the hardworking crew OR seeing the reaction from your family, friends and fans as they bare witness to the finished product and shower you with pleasurable contemplation?

Jennifer: I can’t really say I value one over the other. Acting for me is a process, in which I am fascinated and passionate about every aspect. I enjoy reading scripts and getting into character, and experiencing life through the eyes of someone else. It is all about the art. I love being on set, and being around other creative people. That is how I know this is what I am meant to do! Props to other people who go to an office job everyday, but I could never have the patience to even sit at a desk for a few hours. But put me on a set for 2 straight days no food, no sleep, and I am fine! Couldn’t be happier! It is definitely a great feeling to see the finished products as well. I love being able to see my work become a part of a story that can move and inspire people, and seeing the affect I have made on the audience is definitely gratifying.

Andrew: Talk about the creative environment that you consciously chose to immerse yourself in that has helped foster the development of your fundamental acting skills such as the self-examination of your strengths and individuality, creating an improvisational and spontaneous delivery consistently; refine your performance techniques; shaping your actor competence and helping you discover your unique voice that your fans are blessed with in all of your onscreen and stage performances.

Jennifer: I went to an intensive Acting for Film school, upon graduating I have continued to train with a private coach, and to take as many classes as I can. For me, it is very important to always be working on my craft, and to have my instrument free and open to the work. It’s really enjoyable for me to be working. Besides class, I spend a lot of time watching television/films, reading, and observing people. It all helps my work, and I like to be always working towards something. It is also very important to be honest with yourself and to not have an ego. For me, I appreciate and want constructive criticism. It is not about me, and if my feelings get hurt. It’s about my work, and making my performance be the best it can be. It is definitely a challenge, but that is what I thrive on!

Andrew: What advice would you give to talented young aspiring actors from North Branford who have seen your growing success in New York City and now aspire to professionally pursue acting seriously as a career about the nature of the business and what to look out for?

Jennifer: It is definitely a tough business. I have heard and experienced a lot of the horror stories. But don’t let it stop you!! If you believe you are meant to do something, DO IT! Do not let anyone hold you back, and do not be afraid. There is nothing more satisfying than doing what you feel you were meant to do. And, if you don’t take a chance, you may always regret not going for it! When you do first come into this industry, it is very important to have your guard up and to always research the people and projects you get involved with. There are a lot of scams and con artists. I would say definitely start by taking some classes, there are so many great schools in New York, and to read as much information about the industry as you can. I am definitely here for anyone who has any questions/concerns, because I know how difficult it can be for someone just starting out. It is important to be smart, this after all is a business, and to have a good head on your shoulders, and to always keep your values.

Andrew: Who are some of the legends of the entertainment industry (actors, directors and/or producers) that greatly influenced and inspired you growing up, and who you also admired both for their extraordinary bodies of work and the way they carried themselves in the public throughout their careers?

Jennifer: That is a tough question. There are so many greats it’s difficult to think of them all. Some of my favorites are: Bette Davis, Lauren Bacall, Lucielle Ball, John Wayne, Cary Grant, Humphrey Bogart, Barbara Stanwyck, Wiliam Holden, Fred Astaire, Jerry Lewis, Dean Martin, and the rest of The Rat Pack, Norma Shearer, Joan Crawford, William Faulkner, Preston Sturges, Ingmar Bergman, Elia Kazan.

Andrew: Who are some of the contemporary actors, directors, cinematographers, producers and/or screenplay writers that you admire the most, and who you would love to have the opportunity to collaborate with in a film, television show or theatrical production?

Jennifer: I really idolize Charlize Theron’s career. I love that she has taken risks, and done some very daring characters. She is a beautiful woman, but has challenged herself to play some very gritty and meaningful roles, and I would love to have a career like that! I also love Meryl Streep, Kevin Spacey, James Caan, Ashley Judd, Megan Mullaly, Sean Penn, Pacino, Deniro, Brad Pitt….I also really appreciate the people who often play supporting characters but make them very memorable, like Bonnie Hunt, John C.Riley, and Stanley Tucci.

Andrew: Do you place any limitations on yourself in terms of what you will and will not do in this industry to succeed?

Jennifer: I will succeed from my hard work and determination. But I will never use anyone or go against my values to benefit my career. I don’t believe in that. I believe that you get somewhere from hard, honest work. I also really believe in staying true to yourself. I am sure in this industry it is easy to give in and let people tell you how to be or what you “need to do” to succeed. I think it is very important to be open to advice, but at the end of the day it is YOU who decides what is right and wrong and what you are willing and not willing to do. It is also easy to get broken down and have people stomp all over you. I refuse to let that happen. I stand my ground with the things I believe, and the reason why I will make it and have a career with longevity is because I have vowed to do it the right way, and always be a positive role model.

Andrew: Tell our readers a bit about the movie that you are currently filming entitled, “Blood, Sweat and Brando”.

Jennifer: ‘Blood, Sweat, and Brando’ is a feature about a young man (Warren) who has had a very troubled past, and goes out in search of his real father who he determines is Marlon Brando. I play Shelly, the girl Warren falls for, and who is not exactly how she seems. She was a very fun character to play, by that she has some very different sides to her that you don’t see right away. We have a few scenes left to film this summer, and should be released in the winter.

Andrew: Do you accredit your very genuine performances to the rich emotions from the many experiences within your life that make up your affective memory, which you draw from with the intention of replaying that emotion into your characters?

Jennifer: Everyone has their own method they use in acting. I don’t have one specific method that I use. I definitely bring a lot of myself to many of the characters I play, and I do often draw from my own emotions. It really depends on the situation. I am very good at relating to other people, anyone that knows me will tell you that. Sometimes friends are shocked at how perceptive I am. That definitely comes to use in my acting, where sometimes I just connect with a script and experience all my emotions through that character and what they are experiencing.

Andrew: If I was accompanying you to a movie set from North Branford to New York City, what albums would I definitely be listening to in the car on the four hour trip there?

Jennifer: Well luckily no more commuting from NB to here, now that I live here! But I know all about that! I used to take the 4 hour trip there and back everyday for a year for film school…was not fun! I am sort of funny in my tastes…I love hip hop so there would definitely be some Jay-z, Lil’ Wayne, G-unit….I also love Alicia Keys, Nelly Furtado, Timbaland…and then there would probably be a few randoms from Al Greene and the Bee Gees…depends on my mood!

Andrew: My no limit credit card slips out of my pocket and magically appears in your hands as I finish this interview with you; what do you buy before I find out that it’s missing?!!! (I know in real life you would have returned my credit card to me!!!)

Jennifer: I was just going to say that! I would definitely return it to you, I’m too honest that way! Well, if your asking, what would I buy if I could buy anything? I don’t really know…I guess I would let you treat us to Mama Mexico…one of my favorite restaurants in the city…I am obsessed with their margaritas and guacamole ?

Andrew: What is your ideal exotic getaway?

Jennifer: I am dying to go to Hawaii…one of these days!

Andrew: What sort of qualities in a man do you look for?

Jennifer: Someone who has similar interests, family oriented, hygiene, MANNERS, sensitive yet strong, quietly confident…there is nothing worse than an ego or a man who tries to hard.

Andrew: What is your favorite food?

Jennifer: Italian, Mexican, Thai.

Andrew: Name one of your addictions? (Something that you can’t do without)

Jennifer: Chocolate…I have to have something chocolate every day!!!

Andrew: What is your favorite column or feature in Pulp?

Jennifer: Rogue Angels

Andrew: I’m going to say a few words and tell me what immediately comes to your mind.

North Branford Home

Jennifer: Me

Andrew: Behind Every Door

Jennifer: Long Island

Andrew: Dreams

Jennifer: Oscar

Andrew: Do We Cheat Em’ and How?

Jennifer: Long time ago

Andrew: Fame and Fortune

Jennifer: America

Andrew: Landscape of the Body

Jennifer: Noam

Andrew: Success

Jennifer: I will have it

Andrew: The Sopranos

Jennifer: Tony

Andrew: What is your favorite word?

Jennifer: food ahah

Andrew: What is your least favorite word?

Jennifer: Cockroach……….ewwwww they are all over ny!

Andrew: What is your favorite word to curse with when your upset?

Jennifer: I’m not going to lie, if I get really mad I have been known to toss around the F-bomb, I’m trying to work on it though!!

Andrew: What is your favorite part of the human anatomy?

Jennifer: Definitely the eyes. They are so interesting, you can tell so much about a person through them.

Andrew: William Faulkner is quoted as saying “The aim of every artist is to arrest motion, which is life, by artificial means and hold it fixed so that a hundred years later, when a stranger looks at it, it moves again since it is life”. When your work moves again Jennifer through the eyes of people a hundred years from now, what will they say?

Jennifer: I hope they will say I was an amazing actress and person. That had a career with longevity and was able to touch many lives. That besides trying to be known for beauty, I made an impact on people on and off the screen. That I was a true artist who worked extremely hard to work against stereotypes to do something of a greater meaning.

Andrew: For all of my readers who will become instant fans of yours, and the directors, producers, and writers who will want to work with, tell them where they can get more information about you?

Jennifer: www.jennifergargano.net or www.imdb.com/name/nm2470854

Andrew: In addition to “Blood, Sweat and Brando” what are some of the other acting projects that you will be working on and the upcoming events that you are apart of that you want to talk about?

Jennifer: I currently have several projects in the works. I will be heading to Florida in a few months to film a pilot, and look forward to doing some more television now that the strike is over. I am always updating my site, so be sure to be on the look out!

Andrew: Thank you Jennifer for doing this interview! I hope you enjoyed your experience with Pulp Magazine and I look forward to seeing and hearing about your continual success in the industry. I wish you all of the best in the future as you continue to pursue your promising career as an actor! I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know you a lot better Jennifer and I would love to have you back anytime in the future to update our readers on your latest accomplishments and accolades!

Jennifer: Thank you so much Andrew! Thank you for the opportunity to be a part of Pulp Magazine! It has been a lot of fun!!