Quest for Success

Movin' Forward

2009-08-19T23:43:00.000-07:00

Well, I've decided to begin writing my blog again...only in a different location. Please visit me on my website at: http://www.jillianreeves.com/Blog.html

Blessings,
Jillian

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!!

2007-11-25T19:50:00.000-08:00

Me and my babies volunteering at the Civic Center...this is first time I volunteered with the homeless. It was quite an experience....very worthwhile, and certainly proved that I have SOOOO much to be thankful for. Especially family...even though they're far away :-( MISS THEM. Hope you all had a WONDERFUL Thanksgiving :-)
--Sent from my Helio

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME :)!!!

2007-11-12T19:01:00.000-08:00

Spent my b-day with the fam...breakfast &Venice beach by day...movies & popcorn all night. Doesn't get much better than that :)

Your Birthdate: November 12

You're a dynamic, charismatic person who's possibly headed for fame.
You tend to charm strangers easily. And you usually can get what you want from them.
Verbally talented, you tend to persuade people with your speaking and writing.
You are affectionate and loving, but it's hard for you to commit to any one relationship.

Your strength: Your charm

Your weakness: Your extreme manipulation tactics

Your power color: Indigo

Your power symbol: Four leaf clover

Your power month: December

"Mission" Accomplished :-)

2007-11-10T17:19:00.000-08:00

How I was able to get up early this morning is a mystery to me, lol...but I have successfully completed my training to be a Mission Hospice Volunteer. I'm kinda nervous about it...but I think it will be a really rewarding experience. Wish me luck!

Birthday Party at the Temple bar

2007-11-09T17:17:00.000-08:00

My little B-day Gathering at Temple Bar....

WOWSERS!

2007-10-29T12:30:00.000-07:00

I cannot believe how long it's been, lol. 3 months... more?? That's pretty bad, so I thought I'd check in...and say that things are going great....lately I'm kinda in a state of perpetual bliss, lol. It's nice. Quite nice :) All is well with the fam and in LA. Life is good. I'm Blessed and NOT takin it for granted! Will write again soon :)

CSI MIAMI EPISODE RE-AIRS

2007-07-23T11:08:00.000-07:00

This is part 2 to the episode that aired last week.

Happy July 20th!!!

2007-07-20T09:38:00.001-07:00

No, it's not a holiday...but it is a BEAUTIFUL day :). Everything is SO great! Well, actually everything isn't REALLY SOOO great...and yet it is...which is kinda what's so Great about it! Have I confused you yet, lol?

I love it when I feel like this..really just taking an attitude of gratitude. Sure I could be going on a few more auditions, or lost a few more pounds (still 10 lbs away from my goal, but headed there Fast thanks the the beautiful ladies at RPM where I'm currently doing a Battlezone Bootcamp, I could have a little more of this or a little more of that...but SO WHAT?! I have SOOO much to be grateful for and trust me...I am grateful for it ALL! Hmmm...maybe I should make a list of things I'm grateful for...yeah, that sounds good...I'll do it right now!

Things I'm Grateful For:

- First and foremost God's amazing, endless Grace, Mercy & FAVOR! Truly nothing I have done would be possible with God and I am truly, truly GRATEFUL.

- My mama :)

- My beautiful children

- A summer off from my beatiful children, LOL!

- Peace of mind

- A reasonable portion of health and strength (that's what the old folks used to say :)

- My awesome family...Uncles, Aunts, Brothers, Cousins everyone!

- My new Body Bootcamp and the awesome instructors Cynthia and Karen

- The ability to afford my awesome Bootcamp

- My Awesome friends Old & New

- Living in Santa Monica...it's so beautiful, I love it here.

- Living in California, after driving up the coast to San Luis Obispo last weekend I have a new appreciation.

- My CSI Miami Episodes that are CURRENTLY reairing!!! One aired last Monday and the other will air this coming Monday!

- My career including it's latest highlights (see below :)

- Did I say my friends?? They're really awesome!

- ALL my trials. I really believe their purpose is to make me stronger.

- My shortcomings. They keep me humble, lol.

- Losing 12 lbs! That's a pretty awesome accomplishment if I do say so myself.

- The Best Teacher in the World - Ms. Lesly Kahn (who incidently was the only one had enough love & spunk to tell me to lose 20 lbs!) I love her and I appreciate her belief in me.

- Memories

- Wisdom

- Honesty

- Love

- Forgiveness

- Integrity

- An Open Heart. On India's new CD she has an interlude that says "I want to live with an open heart"...I think I'm accomplishing that :)

- My adorable stuffed puppy, Jr. I sleep with it all the time...it used to be E's.

- Spell Check

- Raw food restaurants...though the desserts STILL make me fat

- My life in it's totality... good and bad.

It's funny I was talking to my friend the other day on my drive home from upstate. We were talking about how there was no secret to living life and he went on to compare our journeys thus far. He was like yeah Jillian, it's like we lived totally opposite lives. You had kids when you were really young and had to put your career on hold. I sacrificed having kids and a family to work on my career. And the funny part is neither one of us are happy. I was like - Whoa there, what? Lol. I was like let me not give you the wrong impression. I may complain about things from time to time but one thing I can honestly say is that I am very happy. I mean maybe things could be better here or there but that will always be the case. But when I look back over my life, and think things over, all of my good days out weigh my days...plus I'm living my dream...and how many people can truly say that? I am living my dream. And I am grateful. And I have joy. And I am happy. And I hope whoever reads this finds themselves there also :)

CSI: MIAMI EPISODE RE AIRS!!!!

2007-07-16T10:49:00.002-07:00

This is the first of a 2 parter entitled "No Man's Land".

Tune in next week for the conclusion "Man Down".

In both I have small parts towards the end...somewhere in teh last 10 or 15 min. Check it out :)

NEW EDITION CONCERT!!!!

2007-07-07T18:14:00.000-07:00

It was the BOMB!!!!!! If it isn't love.....:) We were front row center!!! The BOMB!!! Even Bobby made it out!!!

The Video is kinda bad...but it'll give u a little glimpse :)

HANNAH MONTANA SHOOT!!!

2007-07-06T18:16:00.000-07:00

These are a few pics....I'll write more later!!

NASDAQ SHOOT!

2007-07-02T23:05:00.000-07:00

It's so funny how different I can look depending on my hair. I really must take some more pics!

Headin' to Kraft Services :)

We shot on the Paramount Lot. It's amazing that they recreated NY on a little studio lot. The magic of television, lol.

This Cutie played my boyfriend in the commercial :)

NASDAQ Shoot & BOOKED!!

2007-07-02T18:46:00.000-07:00

Had my shoot for the NASDAQ commercial spot today....will post pics soon :) We shot on the Paramount lot....it's still crazy to me that they can totally recreate New York City on a sound stage, lol! Everyone was super cool and it was nice, easy, quick and simple. God, I love commercials :)
I'll post some pics soon!

ALSO,

Just BOOKED!!! The Disney Channel's Hannah Montana! This marks my 1st Official Booking my new Theatrical agent and I hope it's the first of many, many more :)

I was kinda surpised that I'm shooting for 3 days b/c it's a really small role, unless there's more to it than I saw at the audtion. Shoot starts tomorrow for 3 days excluding the holiday. I was planning a trip to Chicago this weekend but was having a lot of trouble committing to it (much to the dismay of my friend who was waiting for me to decide) but you see, everything happens for a reason :)

I have to say I feel tremendously blessed to be shooting ALL week long during what is suppose to be the slowest time in Hollywood. To God be the glory! It's a beautiful thing. And I have to admit I needed a beautiful thing after my Ka-razy weekend. I haven't had such a large degree of relationship drama in quite some time...and I must confess...I haven't missed it AT ALL, LOL.

Attempting a relationship can be sooo riduculously challenging...and I do mean RIDICULOUSLY challenging. I have a mix of admiration and sympathy for those who are able to continue struggling through it. That's not to say that everyone is struggling. I do believe some people are make a really good match and have an easier time of it. And it is because of that belief that I simply refuse to accept the former. I'm certain there's a better way. There HAS to be, lol.

2007-06-29T20:09:00.000-07:00

AUDITION: Hannah Montana @ GOLDWASSER/MELTZER
AUDITION: Short Film @ Can't Remember the name Casting, lol...oops :)

It's been sooo long since I've listed my auditions. I need to keep up with it a bit more...it actually helps me when I'm able to look back and track things. Must be more faithful to my blog, lol. It's tougher now that I've got my new Helio Ocean :) It's become my mini pda. Hmmm...I wonder if I can blog from my phone?!? Any...back to the auditions...both of these were totally last minute but I was able to make both. The film seems pretty cute and the Hannah Montana thing is just a small co-star. It always amazes me how many people they bring in for such a small part. My agent must be getting pretty anxious for me to get some more credits, lol.

Back from Vegas....

2007-06-17T18:26:00.000-07:00

I now know why what goes on in Vegas, stays in Vegas, LOL. WHEW!!! Yeah....um....enough said, lol.

Hanging at the Pool in Vegas with the girls! I know, I know...my teacher already told me..."Lose 20 pounds!!" LOL!

Vegas Bound!

2007-06-14T17:19:00.000-07:00

So I'm headed to vegas tomorow for the 1st time ever! My good friend from Chicago is having her bachelorette party there and I'm goin' along for the ride. I have to say that Vegas REALLY doesn't seem like my cup of tea...but I'm tryin to keep an open mind, lol....well....not TOO open!

BOOKED!!

2007-06-13T16:07:00.000-07:00

Just got word that I booked a national NASDAQ commercial!!! Very cool. God is SOOOO Good :). Honestly, he takes such good care of me...I am often speechless at the grace, mercy and blessings he bestows upon me. Feels good 2 B Luv'd :)

AND THE NOMINEE'S ARE......

2007-06-03T11:08:00.000-07:00

The nominees for the 2007 6th Annual Cable Positive POP (Positively Outstanding Programing) Award for Best Original Film/Movie are....

-Beat the Drum, Showtime
-3 Needles, Showtime - Staring Stockard Channing, Olympia Dukakis, Sandra Oh, Lucy Liu, Chloe Sevigny & Shawn Ashmore
AND
-Let's Talk, BET - Staring Yours truly :) and Lamman Rucker

Beat the Drum and 3 Needles are two EXCELLENT films and it is truly an honor to be among them. The Awards take place on Tuesday, June 12, 2007....Wish us luck!

Check out the trailers for each film below!

Beat the Drum

3 Needles

Let's Talk Trailer

|

WOWSERS!

2007-05-24T19:11:00.000-07:00

It has seriously been a minute since I've written on this thing, lol. I have to admit I've been pretty negligent :)

Anyway, I have to say things are going really well. I'm really happy with where everything is in my life. I love my new agents...Nancy and her asst Annie are great! I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE my new teacher the fabulous Lesly Kahn. Taking her class is probably the smartest decision I've made since I moved to this town!! She is really, really great. I'm in talks with a new manager...so my fingers are crossed that all works out as it should. He's got a great client list and he seems to be a really good guy and a straight shooter...which is just how I like 'em!

I'm very excited about this upcoming episodic season. For the first time I feel like I'm going into in a really, really good situation. I know that Great things are a comin' :)

Let's see...what else....

Ah yes, my wedding anniversary was Tuesday. Two years have passed...which is amazing. It an interesting day with many mixed emotions but I was very fortunate to share with wonderful people who I care alot about...which made it easier....but it was still kinda hard... i suppose that's just how life goes.

Oh, I had acupuncture for the first time, and I think I recommend it...lol. I was having super low energy (which I've noticed happens to me when this time of year rolls around) and let me tell ya, they hooked me up! LOL! I went like a week ago and I'm really impressed with how much better I feel. Good Stuff!

Fun Fact! Many of you may have heard about Dave Chappelle's marathon comedy set. I had the great pleasure of being at the Laugh Factory that evening. It was OFF THE CHAIN!!! It is by far the most fun I have had in a Long, Long, Long time, LOL. He went on at 1030pm and we didn't leave the club until 5am. Words cannot express how crazy that night was. Chappelle is the Man, lol......oh and a special thanks to Brian Pumper, LOL.

Ok, I know I'm lookin rough...but it's 5 o'clock
in the morning, lol!!!

Do You Know What Today Is......

2007-05-22T19:59:00.000-07:00

HAPPY (Late) EASTER!

2007-04-10T20:42:00.000-07:00

Wow, so it's been like a month and a half since I've blogged...I think that may be a record, LOL.
Anyway Happy Belated Easter to everyone...I hope it was as wonderful as mine was :). OH, and Happy Birthday to my beatiful, amazing, wonderful Grandma...you are definitley missed!

So I'm just getting back to LA from SC today. I had a wonderful time. Got to see my amazing, wonderful, crazy family....it was pretty darn great, I gotta say. I've only been back for a few hours but it's already obvious I gotta get back into LA mode quick! I already have and audition in the morning (thanks to my Awesome team over at MKS) and I owe my new theatrical agent a couple of things. And YES, you heard it correctly, my NEW THEATRICAL AGENT. I have signed with the Daniel Hoff Agency :) And so far I'm absolutely lovin' my agent team over there!!! They are totally the best fit I've had theatrically thus far! I signed with them about a week and a half before I left town and in that time I've already been out on 2 auditions for Series Regular roles...in fact, when I went in to officially register I already had an audition set up for the next day. Pretty darn great....hopefully it keeps up, lol. Wish me luck!

2007-02-17T17:44:00.000-08:00

NEW "ALTERNATIVE" HEADSHOTS

2007-02-07T22:06:00.001-08:00

Here are my great New shots thanks to amazing photographer Amy Dunton!!

MY SUPERBOWL SPOT!!!!

2007-02-04T21:01:00.001-08:00

Check a Sista Out This Weekend!!!!!

2007-02-02T09:23:00.001-08:00

A LESSON BEFORE DYING.......

2007-01-23T19:20:00.000-08:00

...is an Phenomenal play currently running at the Actors Group Theater!!!! I had the pleasure of seeing the show Friday night and I highly recommend you guys check it out....it brought tears to my eyes and I can't tell you the last time that's happened!! My friend and former cast mate Eddie Goines and the wonderful Malik El-Amin star is this wonderfully POWERFUL play!!!! It is definitely worth your $15 dollars AND your Time....GO SEE IT!!!!!

A LESSON BEFORE DYING In rural Louisiana in 1948, Jefferson (a superb Malik B. El-Amin), a semi-literate young black man, accidentally witnesses a shootout that kills a white man. Too confused and scared even to deny his guilt, Jefferson is charged with murder and sentenced to death. The local black community, and one sympathetic white deputy (Shannon McClung), knows he is innocent, but there's no hope of a retrial in the racist legal system. Jefferson's friends can only strive to help the young man to face death with dignity, courage and a sense of his own worth. His stern, loving, matriarchal godmother (Baddja-Lyne) enlists the aid of her preacher (Gregor Manns), and two of Jefferson's former teachers, Grant (Eddie Goines) and Vivian (Syr Law), who also happen to be lovers. Ultimately, it's Grant's doubt rather than the preacher's faith that provides a dollop of salvation and a muted, tragic triumph. The play, skillfully adapted by Romulus Linney from a novel by Ernest J. Gaines, faithfully re-creates the time and place, and director/designer Penny L. Moore brings it to vivid life, assisted by a terrific cast. There is a touch of clumsiness in the staging, due to space limitations, but in every way that counts, it's a wonderful production. Doxie 4 Productions at Actors Group Theatre, 4378 Lankershim Blvd., Universal City; Fri.-Sun., 8 p.m.; thru Feb. 18. (818) 585-8880. (Neal Weaver)

GOOOOOOO BEARS!!!!!!!!!!

2007-01-21T11:03:00.000-08:00

The Chicago Bears are in the Superbowl!!!! Unbelieveable. I cannot even fathom how exited my husband would be if he could have seen this. First the Sox in '05 and now the Bears...wow! He loved that team Sooooo much. He used to always tell me about how his dad would take him to the games and about the first time he saw Walter Payton...it was so special to him. Alright Chi-Town, win this one for my Baby...I know he's watching!!!! Miss you baby, wish you were here....

And how awesome is it that my commercial will be playing while the Bears are winning the Superbowl....let me tell ya it Pretty darn awesome :)

Judith Freeman on CSI: Miami.....

2007-01-10T23:24:00.000-08:00

Ah yes, the Bank Teller gets a name. I am now Judith Freeman on CSI:Miami, no relation to Morgan, LOL.

Ah where to begin this story. We'll start with yesterday. So I called my agent in the afternoon and told him that I had yet to receive my script. At around 5pm someone from production calls me and tells me that the script had been delivered and signed for on Dec. 21. What?!? I don't even have to think long to figure out what happened. I live in a building that is run by complete and utter incompetent morons. I know it sounds harsh and trust me if it weren't true, I wouldn't say it. I didn't even bother to call the office, I went downstairs and asked for my package. Sure enough it was right there. I was sooooo annoyed. I asked the girl why my package had been sitting in their mail room for 3 weeks and I had not been notified once. I told her that when someone gets a piece of express mail that it generally means it's important and I included that since UPS, Fedex and all the others refuse to bring our packages to our door that it is the Offices responsibility to get us our packages in a timely fashion especially when they are signing from them!! I then took a moment just to hear what ridiculous, inane excuse this "person" had for their complete lack of professionalism...she said, "I know, right? That is so strange!" Huh. Ok.

So I went back upstairs called production, told him I had the script and he told me which scene I was in. It was kinda short, only a page, which was kinda good considering I had to memorize it in one night. After I read the scene I flipped to the front of the script to see the list of characters. It said Judith Freeman - Bank Manager. I was like, What?! They have some other girls name in the script!! I was soooo Mad, LOL! I actually asked production about it (I think my mind was still cloudy from the fiasco of finding the script). The guy was like, "Yeah, um, I think that's like...the name of your character." Oops, LOL. Needless to say I was kinda confused, lol. I can really be crazy sometimes.

I got to set today, got the script revisions and saw that most of my scene had been cut. It was originally supposed to be me and David again, but now the cut it into a quick phone conversation. Ahh...those are the breaks! I was kinda disappointed but still really grateful. One, that I was still in it AT ALL, lol...and two that I could focus on the small part and really have the words down pat. I got to set around 245pm and I ended up filming around 600pm. About 15 min before I was about to shoot one of the production guys, Toby, asks me if I have the most current version of the script. I told him yes and I showed him the revisions I had. He was like, "Oh, no...that's old". Huh?? Yeah, I kid you not, lol. It turns out that they'd decided to put the whole scene back in. Ricka Fricka(this is me cursing in cartoon)!! He apologized and said he thought someone else had given it to me and asked me if I would still be ready to do the scene in like 10 min. He was kinda funny b/c I thnk he thought I was gonna totally flip out, which I WAS kinda doing...but ONLY on the inside...after all, I'm a professional dammit, lol! I told him that it would be fine but I would need to go to my actual set and practice, which I did...prayed and practiced actually. Everything moves SO fast on this show, you do NOT want to be the weakest link! I must confess I was starting to feel a bit of pressure.

Ten minutes later a crew of people swarm in and started lighting and changing everything around. My stand in went in for me while I was whisked away to the director (Karen Gaviola)and writer (Ildy Modrovich)so they could hear me rehearse (it was just me since it's a phone scene). I did it once for them, they corrected my pronunciation of one of the characters name and we were done. I went over my lines a few more times with the AD (the adorable Franklin) as he would be the one reading David's lines the a few minutes after that we're shooting. Shot 3 takes and it was a wrap!! TV moves so fast...its CRAZY!!! All in all I'd say I spent no more than 8 minutes actually FILMING my scene. Amazing.

Mine was the last shot of the day so I think everyone was very relieved that it went smoothly. I spoke to Karen, she was very nice and said I did a good job. She told me the episode would air on Feb. 12th during sweeps (which means my first episode will probably air on Feb. 5th)!! I also spoke with Ildy who is one of the sweetest people ever! It was really refreshing to work with such great people. If only for 8 minutes, LOL. Now let's see how much of it actually ends up IN the episode!!!!

All in all, I think I did ok, maybe even pretty good...but performing under intense pressure is Definitley a skill to cultivate in '07!

Bank Teller gets a Name!!!!

I really like this Hair :)

2007-01-08T23:14:00.000-08:00

I had THE BEST time tonight. I seriously cannot remember when I've had more fun or better company. Me and the "Chevy" crew went out for drinks which ended up turning into a full fledged dinner at a cool little restaurant in Santa Monica (The Wilshire). I don't know if it was the amazing wine or the amazing company but I have not laughed as hard and as long in ages, LOL! I just wish I could remember more of it...cursed wine!

I gotta say being the director or producer of commercials really seems like a heck of a career! I've never really thought alot about it, but they had a million "Remember when we were in Rio/Italy/Mexico/Bahamas...etc" stories. Hmmmm....maybe I'm in the wrong line or work, LOL! Meeeeeeeee-Nooooooooooooo, LOL.... You had to be there :)

2007-01-05T23:07:00.000-08:00

Had a Callback for that Legacy audition at Kathy Knowles. My friend Kat was there again and this time Bri and Me were there along w/ the clients. It was good seeing them again, though I must admit I didn't expect to be auditioning for them again so soon! It's very cool though. They're here thru next week and we talked about perhaps getting together for drinks. They're sooo much fun, I wish networking were always this easy, lol.

Spoke with Elliot over at Colorado Mgmt and we've decided to work together. We're starting out with a 60 day trial (cause I got commitment issues, lol) then go from there. Soooo....I guess we'll see how it goes :) Fingers Crossed!!

2007-01-04T17:42:00.001-08:00

Met with the guys over at Colorado Management today. I actually liked them alot. I met with the owner Kathy and the guy running the LA office Elliot and they both seemed to have a really good spirit. I told them that I wasn't looking for just any representation and that my top priority was feeling like my rep and I are a good fit. They agreed totally which I thought was cool...it's nice to be on the same page as the people you're working with....or potentially working with, lol.

We agreed to touch base tomorrow. I think I'm feelin' pretty good about it :)

First Audition of the Year!!

2007-01-03T17:32:00.000-08:00

Had my first audition for 2007 and I have to admit I am quite pleased. Not necessarily b/c it went so well (but it did go pretty good :), but more so because it was for the same director from the Chevy ad and he requested me personally from my agent :) Now, THAT's what I'm talking about, lol! So many people in this business talk about how great you are and how they really want to work with you again....but it's just talk. I have a feelin' these guys mean it and that is truly appreciated! I had the pleasure of seeing my co-star from the commercial there, too! We totally shared the same sentiment...To Bri & Me thanks for lookin' out!!!

Another interesting development. I was contacted today by a management company wanting to set up a meeting. They said they were expanding their adult division and really wanted to meet me. Could be interesting....

So 3 days into the new year I've had my first audition, already have my first job lined up and a meeting with a perspective manager.....

It's gonna be a good year :)

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!!!

2007-01-01T11:49:00.000-08:00

Words cannot describe how wonderful I feel about this year!! As I look back over my life and think things over I can truly say that the Lord has been SOOO Good to me! And I know that the same God who brought me through every single obstacle in 2006 is the SAME God that will carry me through 2007...and with that knowledge I know there's nothing I cannot accomplish! My heart is full...it's full of loving memories of my loved ones that have passed on, it's full of love for my beautiful, supportive family & my beautiful and dynamic children, full of respect and thankfulness for my past and full of joy and purpose as I look at the future!

Here's to BIG things in 2007 :)

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!!!

2006-12-25T17:26:00.000-08:00

2006-12-18T07:02:00.000-08:00

Back in LA, really tired...but I was greeted with great news from my agent! I have officially booked CSI:Miami again :) I shoot 1/10/07. That's what I call a Merry Christmas AND a Happy New Year!!

Oh, and I looked up some info on the Super Bowl, and from what I can gather, it looks like my commercial will air on Feb. 4th (the "making-of" CBS stuff will air the 3rd or the 4th, too) and my first CSI:Miami episode will air on Feb. 5th. It'll be a whole little Jillian weekend, lol. What a way to end the year :)

2006-12-17T06:34:00.000-08:00

Shoot!! I had a 5am wake up call, but I must have fallen asleep again! I woke up to the phone ringing at like 5:50am. The production assistant was like, "Where are you?". I was so sleepy I couldn't even respond...it think I said something like..."what do you mean", LOL. He was like "Did you get the times confused?"....I quickly woke up and thanked God that he'd thrown me a bone. I didn't quite understand why he thought I'd been given the wrong time until I got downstairs and saw Kat getting in the car....turns out we'd both overslept and ended up being ready at the same time! How's that for being in sync with your scene partner, lol.

I felt SOOO bad about being late, but I ended up doing alot of my own make-up in the car to save time when we got to set. We ended up being ready with plenty of time to spare, thank goodness!

Everybody on set was really cool. Apparently, all the other actors/dancers in the commercial were from NY so Kat and I were regarded as a pretty big deal, which is kinda funny to me.

This commercial was a really unique experience for me. First of all, its really, really funny. I'm talkin' Super Bowl funny!! That's right...my Chevy commercial will debut on Super Bowl Sunday (God willing, lol)!!! Secondly, it turns out the the girl who wrote the commercial was an 18 year old college student who won a contest sponsored by CBS (I'm tellin' reality can pay off if you work it right! I'm still thankful to FFF for my SAG card!). Because of this CBS was filming behind the scenes footage for a "making-of" show...the filmed us acting silly and we did a few interviews with them which was a bunch of fun! Oh, and talk about coincidence...when we wrapped shooting today, the guy who was in charge of all the CBS footage came up to me. He was like "Hey, Jillian, right?? I don't know if you remember me, but I was the casting director on Fight for Fame." How crazy is that? It's such a small world! Anyway, the "making-of" show is supposed to air on CBS the night before or the morning of the Super Bowl, I'll keep ya posted!

After we wrapped Kat and I grabbed a few drinks with the director and producer of the spot. They were such cool guys and it was really good to get a bit of networking in considering we were on such a tight schedule. This is such a small business and relationships are key to being successful in it. I just saw the CD from Fight for Fame for goodness sakes!

After that I got together with my good friend Eric Abrams. I know Eric from South Carolina! He was my cast mate in my last undergrad play "Blues for an Alabama Sky". It's so good to be around southern folk! We hung out in Harlem then came back to mid town and again I stayed out way too late, lol. But I had a ton of fun. In fact my entire weekend was Awesome. I love NY, and I thank God for each and every blessing he's bestowed upon me!

2006-12-16T05:24:00.000-08:00

Started shooting today. It's going to be a really, really funny commercial! It's a Chevy spot that consists of 3 girls in a car and some very "interesting" men that attracted to said car, lol. I don't want to say to much b/c I don't want to ruin the surprise...but trust me, it will be unforgettable, lol. We shot from sun up to sun down, which is pretty awesome considering the sun sets at like 430pm! Plus it's like the easiest shoot ever (at least for us girls), all we do is sit in the car all day! The car has microphones so we don't even have to wear them, it was pretty sweet.

Even though the day ended early I was still pretty exhausted. I was already working on very little sleep in LA and it hadn't gotten any better since arriving yesterday. Still, I made the probably unwise descision to hang out with a few friends this evening. Nothing too crazy, my friend Brian and I met with my friends Lorraine and Andrea for dinner at this cool restaurant called "Bread" in SoHo. I insisted that we go to dinner early, and then I ended up being really, really late, lol. It was pretty bad. Being late that is, not the dinner. The food was great and it was good seeing my friends again (though I'd just seen them 2 wks earlier). I always have such a great time in NY....I wonder if I could move there?? I think Los Angeles weather is spoiling me a bit, lol. Anyway, we had a great time...I stayed out a little too late, but luckily tomorrows call time is 530a instead of 5a. Plus, I'm leaving in 2 days...I can rest on the plane, right??

My crazy friend Lorraine and her Hubby Andrea

Me with my friends Lo and Brian outside of Bread

2006-12-15T05:24:00.000-08:00

I flew in EARLY this morning and since it was such an long flight, they upgraded me to business class...which was very nice! A girl could get used to this kind of thing, lol. On my trip to NY earlier this month we ended up getting bumped up to first class. As far as I can tell the biggest difference between "Business" and "First" is a warm chocolate chip cookie, lol. In "business" class they give the tired old pre-packaged sugar cookies. Not that I'm complaining mind you, I'm just very particular about my cookies (as you can tell by the girth of my hips, lol). Plus, I made friends with the flight attendant who ended up sneaking a warm chocolate chip cookie from first for me, lol. I guess the other difference would be that first class is really isolated. They don't really come in contact with anyone who is not in first class. In "business" everyone walks past you going to the regular seats, which I will admit was a little uncomfortable. I guess it just really highlighted this crazy class structure we have in this society. There I was sitting in this big, plush nice leather seat with a constant birage of free food, drinks etc...and I turn around to see people packed in like sardines having to pay $5 for a meal on a 6 hour flight! It's odd, because I was very grateful, but I also felt a little...i don't know guilty I guess. I really don't like that we live in the richest country in the world and so often people without alot of money are treated like second class citizens. Now I've been from first class to Greyhound and trust me, poor peole get a raw deal! Ahhh, the complexities of life...I'm obviously dealing with a lot of conflict on this subject, lol.

But, I digress, lol. So we land in NY and I realize that the girl sitting a few rows in front of me (also ironically the only other black person in business class) was also the girl that I auditioned with. We both booked the commercial, which was very cool! Production had arranged for a car to pick us up from the airport and take us straight to our fitting. We got to the production offices, got our wardrobe, met the director again (who was AWESOME, by the way) and got our per diems.

Next they gave us cab fare and put us in a taxi to our hotel. I get to the hotel, go to check in and realize that I don't have my wallet!!!! I had left it in the cab. Unbelievable, right?? You'd think I never lived in the city before, lol. I was more concerned with not having my ID than anything else. Luckily I had most of my cash on me so I just had to cancel a few cards and try to figure out how to check in at the hotel and get on a flight to go home without an ID. The people at the hotel (Hotel QT)were cool, and they let me check-in since the room was paid for already. I went to my room dropped my bags, met up with Kat (the other girl in the commercial) and we retraced our steps just in case my wallet had fallen out on the street. It's funny though, because for some reason I never really freaked out or got upset. I was annoyed with myself, but not like frentic or paniced or anything. Anyway, we searched for the wallet but we didn't find it, and it was starting to get late (it was like 8pm but we had a 5am call!) so we decided to grab a bite to eat. We were about a half a block away from the hotel when we turned the corner and BAM!! Somebody turned on the lights, lol! We were in the middle of time square with all its bells and whistles. Kat and I just stopped in our tracks and looked at each other. With all the chaos of the flight, the fitting, the hotel, the wallet, etc...we suddenly realized how tremendously blessed we were. Here we were in the middle of New York City on an all expense paid trip, to shoot what is supposed to be a pretty big commercial, and even though I'd lost my wallet, I really hadn't lost that much in terms of money, my beautiful friends in Los Angeles were taking wonderful care of the twins (HUGE thanks to Michelle, Laconya and Adrian...I LOVE you Guys!!!)...I just felt so blessed. All my worries faded and I knew that if God had brought me this far, he would certainly take care of the rest. Both Kat and I decided to call our parents just to share how great everything was. We walked around a bit and then decided to grab a bite to eat before heading back to the hotel. While we were eating at this great little Italian restaurant my phone rings. I answered it and the conversation went something like this....

Guy on the Phone (GOP): Jillian??
Me: Yes
GOP: Is this Jillian?
Me: Yes, who is this??
GOP: This is the guy who has your wallet.

How awesome is that!? He told me where he lived and that I could come get it that evening. He returned it to me with everything in tact...not one dime missing. I offered him $20 as a thank you, but he refused to take it...told me to go buy myself a cup of coffee, lol. I went back to the hotel and prepared for my 5 am call. All was well. Now THAT'S God :)

Times Square right around the corner from my hotel

My Cute Little Hotel room

This is like Ikea meets Courtyard Marriot, LOL

They Like Me! They Really, Really Like Me....I think!

2006-12-13T21:18:00.001-08:00

Oh my goodness...things have been so busy lately!! Between this business and life stuff time is FLYIN' by and I just can't seem to keep up, lol.

I got great news tonight...well potentially great news that is. My agent called me and asked my avail for Jan 4-10. I told him that I'd be around, and he was like "Great, CSI: Miami is checkin your avail, they might want you back." How AWESOME is that! It's funny b/c we'd had just had a conversation earlier today and he asked how the shoot was, I told him it went great and the best part is I didn't die so maybe I'll recur. Crazy, huh? Maybe I spoke it into existence...God is SO good! I dropped off a little Thank You gift to Nan and her staff yesterday...without them thinking about me non of this would be happening! It's good to have CD's who think of you, especially when you don't have an agent or manager fighting for you.

It's pretty late so I'm thinking I'm not going to NY for Chevy tomorrow, lol. I'm officially booked for the 15th, but they were holding me for the 14th. It's really strange for me to be flying out in 2 day and I haven't heard anything. I keep thinking something is gonna go wrong, but my agent assured me that this is typical. I know that usually you get the shooting info the day before, but it's a little nerve wracking when multiple days of travel across the country are involved. BUT, I'm rolling with the punches. I'm still kinda under the weather from my last trip to New York...the weather is MUCH different than here in sunny California. I don't really mind the cold, but I do have to be prepared for it!

I actually kinda miss the cold weather...somehow it doesn't really seem like Christmas when its 75 degrees outside. It's kinda a bummer too b/c I think me and the kids will probably stay here for the holidays....I really, really don't want to, but it may be unavoidable :(. I miss my family, I miss my friends on the E. coast and I miss E. It's funny, I've been running around so much in the past weeks this is like the first time I've had a chance to actually "feel" those things. Does that sound crazy?? It's like you get so busy that you look up and a month or two have passed without you really being aware of yourself. I haven't really had time to sit still and just be...to just feel. Just look how long it's been since I've blogged about anything meaningful, lol. I guess its the stopping to smell the roses thing...
and being home REALLY helps me do that. Maybe there's a way for me to make it happen....we'll see I guess....

Anyway let me end this entry by saying I am very, very Blessed and I say "Thank you, Jesus" for all of the wonderful opportunities I've had of late. My first trip to NY was a true blessing, I met wonderful people who I feel are going to open the door to International opportunities. The Charter Commercial has been a TREMENDOUS blessing. The Chevy thing is just icing on the cake. My CSI: Miami Co-Star was awesome, but a recurring role is beyond what I could have hoped from my first episodic role. I was hoping to just be able to qualify for SAG insurance, now it looks like I might not only qualify but make enough money for the best plan they offer. Isn't it funny how God not only gives us what we need, but also provides some of the stuff we want too :)?? I know this is only the beginning of a simply Amazing 2007 and I owe every good thing in my life to God. I love him, I appreciate his favor, and I give him all the praise and Glory!!

CSI Miami Shoot

2006-12-07T22:46:00.001-08:00

BOOKED!!! 2 FOR 2!!!

2006-12-06T20:53:00.000-08:00

What a wonderful day this has been!!! If I wasn't a good Christian woman, I'd go play the lottery, lol. But seriously, I'm so psyched! I booked the Chevy commercial I went out for last week! I have to go back to NY next week to shoot for 5 days!

AND

I booked my FIRST Episodic!!! It's a Co-Star role on CSI:Miami (HUGE thanks to Nan Dutton!!!!!! I Really appeciate the LUV!!!!) I auditioned yesterday, cast today, and shooting tomorrow! I'm in a scene opposite David Caruso...I'll let you know how it goes!

Back from NYC

2006-12-05T20:49:00.000-08:00

Got back from New York today and hit the ground running with a callback and an audition! I had an AWESOME time in NY and met some really wonderful people. I think I see some international travel in my future :) I know I keep sayin' this, but I REALLY will write more about my trip when I have a little more time, lol.... For some reason it's becoming harder and harder for me to live life AND write about it, lol!

But fareal, more info about the trip to come soon!

LET'S TALK Airing today at 12:00pm EST!!!!!!

2006-12-02T15:57:00.000-08:00

Check it out!!!

Let's Talk During World AIDS Week!!

2006-11-28T01:54:00.000-08:00

Ok, so much is going on!! Below is a brief overview of the upcoming events, I'll write more detailed info soon...hopefully, lol. I think I'm gonna try to make the NY event!

R.I.P. Fruitcake Lady

2006-11-22T10:21:00.000-08:00

I LOVED this character on Jay Leno...but then again I have a soft spot for old southern "tell-it-like-it-is" women (perhaps cause I'll be one one day, lol?)

I thought she was simply hilarious! She passed away on November 3rd.

WARNING! May be offensive tosome...that old lady could get a little vulgar!

ANOTHER LET'S TALK SCREENING!!

2006-11-18T11:15:00.000-08:00

LET'S TALK Premieres at the National Black Graduate Student Association Conference -
Tom Bradley International Hall @ UCLA
November 18th @ 3:00pm-4:30pm
Cost $10
Screening followed by a Q&A with filmmaker Michelle Lynne Coons and actors Jillian Reeves and Lamman Rucker.

HEROES....

2006-11-16T14:26:00.000-08:00

HEROES IN THE STRUGGLE

2006-11-16T11:54:00.000-08:00

Black AIDS Institute to Host Sixth Annual Gala Reception
Thursday, November 16th: Los Angeles, CA

The Black AIDS Institute will host the sixth annual Heroes in the Struggle awards presentation, on Thursday, November 16, 2006, 6:00 PM., at the Directors Guild of America. This annual event attracts over 1,000 people including celebrities, elected officials, and the community. This years' honorees are Dionne Warwick and Friends (Elton John, Stevie Wonder, Gladys Knight, Carol Bayer Sager, and Burt Bacharach) for their work on the song "That's What Friends Are For", celebrity photographer Duane Cramer, film producer and director Patrik-Ian Polk, and AIDS activists Rashida Abdul-Kabir, Rev. Michael Beckwith and Tony Wafford.

MORE INFO CAN BE OBTAINED AT WWW.BLACKAIDS.ORG

UNIVERS"SOULLLLLL" CIRCUS!!!!!

2006-11-12T22:23:00.000-08:00

I had SOOOOOOOO much FUN and the UniverSOUL Circus!!!! It was absolutely beautiful to see so many talented brothas and sistas doin' their thing! Tony Tone was the MC and he was Phenomenal!! Me and my friends used to go see him in the comedy club in S.C. and he was funny then! I wish him all the success in the world, he deserves it!!

Motorcyle Show:

Light Show

Emotions in Motion

Gabonese Acrobatic Troupe

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME :)

2006-11-12T11:13:00.000-08:00

Thanks to ALL for the birthday wishes and emails :) It's been a pretty nice weekend and we're topping it off by attending the Universal SOUL Circus today (was hoping for a spa day, but guess I'll have to put that off until next week, lol).

My beautiful birthday bouquet that was followed by a beatuiful birthday dinner. Huge thanks to AJ fo a great evening :)

HEROES IN THE STRUGGLE

2006-11-09T11:32:00.000-08:00

So it looks like I'm going to have the pleasure of attending this star-studded event (thank you Miss Michelle Coons, lol!). I've been to a few awards shows now, but this one is very special. First of all the Black Aids Institute does awesome work in terms of HIV education and awareness in the black community, they were also a co-sponsor of my film Let's Talk...but the thing I'm really excited about is that as of now it looks like I might have the privilege of not only attending, but PRESENTING as well! It's not set in stone yet, but it's a definite possibility. Now I've attended, but I've never presented, so needless to say it would be an awesome opportunity! Some of the other presenters include (from what I hear, lol) Vanessa Williams, Hill Harper, Loretta Divine, CD Robi Reed and a host of others...wish me luck!

Aids Walk!! BMA's!!! Awesome day!

2006-10-16T10:53:00.000-07:00

Gosh, I can't believe how long it's been since I've written....so hard to keep up, I swear!

First of all, I think I'm gonna change my name to Merlin because somehow I managed to go from this:

to this:

in less than 2 Hours, LOL!

My day started off with the Aids walk, a truly beautiful event. Stephanie Mills (one of my ALL TIME favorite singers) performed "Home" and Wayne Brady (who really is pretty funny) hosted. There were over 30,000 walkers and I walked with a group of my friends including, the AWESOME Robert and Johnny, and my beautiful Sistas Michelle, Lisa, Marvelyn, Nikki, Auntie and Julie. The walk was a 10k which I thought would be a breeze...boy was I wrong! I think I must really be out of shape, I couldn't believe how out of breath I was!! One of the great thing about walks, besides the obivious helping other people aspect, is the amount of treats people pass out to you. They had tubes of yogurt, biscotti, energy bars, fancy packaged waters, chips, and for finishing the walk, Starbucks treated us to Frappacino bars! I was great to see so many companies supporting the event.
It was also interesting to see the differences between walks. I found the Aids walk to be much lighter in terms of tone, just kinda more casual and laid back somehow. The Cancer walk seemed more serious and even a little somber. Maybe it's because it's so close to my heart. Or maybe its that you see so many people walking "in memory of" or "survivor for __ years". I remember having to fight back tears through most of that walk, then just breaking down when it was over. It's terrible that so many have to suffer from disease. Once you've been affected by it, things are never really the same again. E is always on my mind...I miss him so much. More and more everyday. The longer he's gone the more I realize that he really was one of a kind. I love that man. Ok...I know, serious digression....lol...sorry about that...where was I? Ah yes, the Aids Walk, lol. Here are some pics from the day...

After I got done with the walk, I had approx 2 1/2 hours to get myself together for the 2006 Black Music Awards. HUGE thanks to Nicole for the tickets!! Thank you, thank you, thank YOU! I didn't really have a lot of clothing options because a) I couldn't really afford to buy the dresses I liked and b) my recent weight gain has made my already limited selection...well, even more limited, LOL! But I worked it out in time to get my car wash and pick up my partna for the evening Lori (a very cool girl from the ATL) who works for the network that sponsored the event.

The BMA's were just simply wonderful. It was beautiful to see all of our black stars looking elegant and radiant and refined. It was an event filled with class and dignity which I was humbled and thankful to be a part of. I am so grateful to God for his blessings...and attending this event was truly a blessing, it was truly inspiring.

Some of the highlights was a beautiful speech by Cicely Tyson. She received an award for her amazing body of work...did you know she is the first black woman to appear have a lead in a series that was not a Maid or a Mamie? Go 'head Ms. Tyson! Her speech was so touching it brought tears to my eyes. Spike got the Ossie Davis Humanitarian award for "When the Levee's Broke". They showed some of the film and well...more tears...lol. What a powerful piece of work...I haven't seen it in it's entirety, but after last night it is certainly a priority for me to do so. Laurence Fishburne won and I was really moved at his gratitude. He was so appreciative and thankful...I guess I was taken aback b/c I'm used to seeing him in those Ike Turner roles, lol. Gosh who else, the amazing Melvin Van Peebles, Angela Bassett, Oprah, Ruby Dee, Kimberly Elise, the amazing (and still fine, lol) Billy Dee Williams, Barry Gordy, the supremely talented Ms. Jill Scott performed (simply amazing), host Tyler Perry (who does one heck of a Loretta Divine impression, lol)...and honestly TOO many others to name.

After the awards show we headed to the HBO After party. I'm not quite sure how it happened, but somehow my Patna and I managed to procure a SUV stretch Limo to transport us to the second event, LOL. Now, anyone that knows me knows that I am not, by any stretch of the imagination, a materialistic woman. Fancy cars and clothes really mean very little to me. But I have to admit, that Limo was the BOMB!!! LOL!! It was alot of fun and everyone was sooo cool (which is a real rarity in LA, lol!). We were having our own little dance fest on the way to the After party, lol. The After Party was also a bunch of fun. It was really well attended. I actually ran into a lot of people I knew, or that knew me over the course of the evening. Many of them had seen the film...I really can't believe how many black folks watch BET, LOL.

After the After party, we went up to a birthday party for C.R. (the director of ATL). And after That, we called it a night.

Whew! That was one LOOOONG but Beautiful day! I'll be lucky if I can move in the morning, lol.

Pics from the BMA After Party...

2006-09-20T18:22:00.000-07:00

Shot my commercial today. It was quick and painless, lol. My call was 6am and I was out by 10:30am....very cool. Especially since I ended up shooting FOUR spots!! The spots were VERY dialogue heavy and the director thanked me for being so well prepared. Apparently, many of the actors who shot yesterday came in very unprepared. One girl didn't have any of the dialogue memorized. She said she figured there would be changes so she didn't bother! Stuff like that is SO crazy to me! I mean seriously, how can you be serious about your role as an actor and show up totally unprepared? Simply, amazing. Anyway the shoot was Excellent and I even recognized one of the guys on the crew from Let's Talk, which was very cool. During one of my takes he gave me a big Thumbs Up :) somehow it felt really good to know someone on the set and have them rooting for me. I felt like an old pro, lol. It was also good to see someone else there who looked like me, lol. I think we were the only two people of color in the entire building...which is another phenomenon of Hollywood that blows my mind!!
Ah well...that's another subject for another time, lol....

Booked!!!

2006-09-16T17:26:00.000-07:00

Charter Communications Commercial!

Well, It's about time, LOL! I go to wardrobe on the 17th and shoot on the 20th :)

Sponsor me in the AIDS Walk!!!

2006-09-14T21:56:00.006-07:00

OK, I know I'm seriously slippin...but things have been soooo busy it's hard to keep up here, LOL.

For all who read this, everythings going really well on my end. The kids came back from the south and started school (that in and of itself zapped me of like 75% of my time, LOL) I've started really writing (not that my blog isn't, in fact I'm really glad I've been keeping it now that I'm actually doing more structured writing!), I've been auditioning some, not as much as I'd like, but definitely more than others (especially considering I'm still kinda in the middle of the representation thing...which, by the way, is moving forward slowly but sho-ly :). I'm actually on avail for a commercial as we speak (fingers-crossed!!), and I had an audition today for Old Christine and Boost mobile. I've gotta get back into the habit of listing my auditions...in fact, let me start now, LOL

Avail: Charter Communications @ M Casting (for some reason "M" seems wrong...but I think it's right)
Audition: Old Christine @ Katherine Eckert Casting
Auditions: Boost Mobile @ Francine Selkirk Casting

Ah yes, much more familiar :)

Family life is great, my Mom got into an accident earlier this week but she's fine. Just a little shaken. LA is great, I'm am soooo lucky to be surrounded by such WONDERFUL people. Of course anyone who knows me knows that I refuse to have it any other way, lol. Seriously, though, I am so blessed to have my little LA family. The friends that I've made here are very dear to me...they really make this place feel a little more like home.

An old friend of mine called me last week (we worked together in Chicago...the same place were E and I both worked) and told me that two more people passed away at our old job recently. One, a retired surgeon named Dr. Johnason (affectionately called 'Dr. J') and the other a reasonably young woman named Carol. It came as quite a shock. I feel so sad for the people at the college, going through another loss only a year after E. The College was one of the best places I've ever worked, it was really kind of a family...they are all in my prayers during this very difficult time. May both Carol and Dr. J rest in peace.

Now to my title message...Earlier this year I did a Cancer walk in honor of E ( I miss u sooo much!) and my Aunt Debbie. The Cancer walk was kind of last minute and though I participated, I really didn't get a chance to do the whole raise money, sponsorship thing. Well, I have decided to do the AIDS Walk and it's not 'til next month so I have plenty of time raise money in addition to my participation! If anyone would like to contribute please visit my personal page link at: http://aidswalklosangeles2006.kintera.org/jillianreevesdeortiz

Anything you wish to donate will be GREATLY appreciated!! My goal is $1000...at first I had $500, but my friend insisted that I raise it, so I did, LOL. What's that old saying?? Shoot for the moon: Even if you miss it, you'll be among the stars :)

2006-08-30T23:39:00.000-07:00

Audition: Monk @ CFB Casting

I have never auditioned for this office before. I think I met Corbin last year at a workshop....pretty cool to know I'm in their files!

2006-08-28T12:48:00.000-07:00

I just found out that one of my classmates David Weimortz was killed over the weekend in Iraq. He was in the Marine Corps and died serving his country. It's amazing how easy it is to forget what's going on in the world until you're confronted with it head on. Mortality seems so much more real when it happens to someone your own age that you knew personally. I know that everyone has their opinions about the war, and I certainly have never been a supporter...but I truly hope some good comes of it. People are really making the ultimate sacrafice...and it would be an enormous tradgedy if it were all for nothing....

RIP David W. - I can't help but feel that your life was taken much too soon. Peace and Blessing to the Weimortz family as well during their time of sorrow.

2006-08-22T17:16:00.000-07:00

Audition: Notes From the Underbelly (ABC sitcom) @ Tracy Lilienfield Casting

2006-08-21T10:00:00.001-07:00

Audition: Gilmore Girls @ JAM Casting (Recurring Guest-Star role!)

2006-08-08T09:58:00.000-07:00

Callback: Budlight @ M. Sweetners

2006-08-03T19:07:00.000-07:00

Audition: Cold Case @ Shaner/Testa Casting

OK, I'm pretty excited about this audition. Why? Well, I left my manager about a week and half ago...which means for the first time in an long time I am without representation...at the beginning of episodic season no less! I know everyone says that you shouldn't leave an agent/manager without having another lined up, but I've never really subscribed to that philosophy. I just don't feel like I should continue in any situation that isn't in my best interest. I'm not saying anything bad about my former manager, in fact they got me out alot and I have nothing but respect for them...it just didn't work out.

So, with the added pressure of no representation I really stepped up my drops since I've been back and this audition is a direct result of them! Very cool. They actually called my commercial agent (I LOVE you guys over at MKS, I'll book for you soon...I PROMISE, lol), they didn't take the appt, but they did call and give me the phone number so I could take the info myself. They also offered to get any sides I needed...awwww, they are sooo great! This will serve as good encouragement for me b/c as anyone knows who does drops, they can get a lil' tedious, lol. But they DO work and the effort is definitely worth it!!

2006-07-28T19:22:00.001-07:00

Audition: Bud Light @ Marie Sweetners

Hmmmm...looks like I'm gonna have to find a genie costume for this! What will they think of next, lol.

This audition is a very nice welcome home present! I have a TON of drops to do today...time to get my hustle on!

Back N LA!!

2006-07-27T21:04:00.000-07:00

I had a WONDERFUL trip! Missed a few auditions but it's All Goood...there's more where they came from :) It was really great to see my family. I feel rejuvenated and ready to get my Hustle ON, lol! Hopefully, I'll get around to posting pics soon!

ON VACATION!!!!

2006-07-21T12:21:00.000-07:00

I'm off to the South for a week!! I'm going to my brother's wedding and spending some much needed time with my family!! I'm all smiles :)! Be back next Thursday.

Le Lounge Opening

2006-07-18T12:21:00.000-07:00

My friend Tony Yalda (one of the stars of American Dreamz) and I attended the opening of Le Lounge tonight. Now, interestingly enough Le Lounge is not in LA, it is in Paris...but nonetheless, the "opening" was here. The theme was French Burlesque so it was kinda fun to play dress up. I am especially proud of the job I did on my fake eyelashes, LOL... check 'em out :)!

2006-07-11T12:24:00.001-07:00

Audition: PerfectMatch.com @ Lisa Fields Casting
Callback (producer's session): Lincoln Heights @ Stordahl/Terry Casting

2006-07-07T16:17:00.001-07:00

Audition: Lincoln Heights @ Stordahl/Terry Casting

AAArrgh! I'm really kicking myself for missing this year's previews...I have no idea what the new shows are like. I have a list of the pilots that got picked up, but there's nothing like seeing the trailers for the shows. Anyway, the audition went well. I'm really looking forward to this episodic season!

I also really like this casting office. They are really nice women! I was close to booking with them when I was non-union...hopefully I'll be frequent visitor to their office this season!

When to a party with some of the LT family (Michelle & Lamman) tonight. We had such a great time...I LUV those folks :)

2006-07-06T16:17:00.000-07:00

Audition: Cadillac @ Shane Liem Casting

Happy 4th of July!!!!!

2006-07-04T16:11:00.000-07:00

LC's BBQ - Good Job Girl!

Best Buy Shoot

2006-06-29T14:50:00.000-07:00

Best Buy Shoot. The shoot went pretty well. We shot everything with the green screen, but still took ALL day. Not that I'm complaining, I met some great people on set and they took very good care of us.

My biggest problem with the day was having to wear those dickie pants! Now, it's not the pants fault...I'm the one who can't resist Roscoe's Chicken and Waffles, LOL. Anyway, after seeing myself in the monitor, I now understand that something's gotta give. After putting on those dickies, that polo shirt and them pinning my hair down...I don't even look like the same woman who was at the awards show two days ago! I look more like her second-cousin...you can tell we kin (that means 'related' for you non-Southerners), but it's obvious I've had a tougher time comin' up, lol.

This is my very WEAK attempt to pop my collar in my Best Buy uniform, LOL. I'm so not hip.

BET Awards Show!!!

2006-06-27T11:51:00.000-07:00

So, I've been really busy, but wanted to post these pics. Hopefully, I'll get some pics of us on the Red Carpet and put them up soon! Also I'm planning to do some serious blogging this weekend and fill you guys in on everything!! In the mean time check a sista out :)...


On my way to the Awards Show


Lamman and I in the Parking lot of the BET awards...we couldn't take our camera in :(


Big Thanks to Michelle for helping me find these Awesome shoes!!


BET Courvosier After Party. Dress courtesy of AjaImani!


Lamman and I at the After Party

Quest for a Dress!

2006-06-26T12:23:00.000-07:00

I spent the ENTIRE day looking for a dress to wear tomorrow. I have to say shopping really isn't my bag....but thanks to my great friends we got it done!! Thanks LC, Angela and Michelle for all your help!!! Oh and excuse the hair...a sista was tryin to get stuff done, lol!

Catch Let's Talk on BET!!!

2006-06-25T19:45:00.001-07:00

Let's Talk airs today at 12 Noon and 10pm EST/PST. (Satellite users check your guide for correct times)

Don't Miss it!!

www.letstalkthemovie.com

Jillian Reeves de Oritz & Lamman Rucker
in "Let's Talk"

Let's Talk Screening Party!

2006-06-23T02:32:00.000-07:00

BOOKED!!
Good news: I booked the Best Buy spot...which just so happens to be the first audition I had after officially becoming SAG :)

Bad news: I thought this was for a commercial...which it kinda is but it will only play in Best Buy stores, which means it's technically an industrial. For those non-actors out there, that basically means I'll only be paid a day rate, no residuals. It's cool though and hopefully it's just the first of Many jobs :)

2006-06-22T10:55:00.000-07:00

Audition: Discover @ Lisa Fields Casting
Audition: Saturn @ Francine Selkirk Casting

2006-06-16T15:46:00.000-07:00

Audition: Pepsi @ Francine Selkirk Casting
Audition: State Farm @ Sarah Stuart Casting

Today I had my first newspaper interview! I spoke with a staff writer for the South Carolina Black Media Group's newspaper Black News. The interviewer's name was Allen and he was a very cool guy. We spoke for about an hour about a host of different subjects. He was pretty well prepared with questions for me, I'm sure in part because he'd read my blog! I've really got to be careful with this thing, LOL! He asked me about the film and my journey from SC to Chi-town to LA, the kids, E, you name it. It should be an interesting read...though I guess you never know how you'll come across over the phone. It was fun though, at one point Allen was like "I can tell you love to laugh". What can I say, it's easy to laugh when you find your own jokes funny :) Anyay, should be interesting to see how it turns out. You better do me right, Allen!! :)

2006-06-15T15:48:00.000-07:00

Callback: Best Buy @ Tolley Casparis Casting

2006-06-14T16:08:00.000-07:00

Audition: Best Buy @ Tolley Casparis Casting

San Francisco Black Film Festival

2006-06-11T17:17:00.000-07:00

Arrived in San Francisco eeeearly yesterday morning. My castmate and I left at like 3am Sat morning/Fri night, arrived at in San Fran at around 8am and we're leaving tonight around 8pm. It's been a bit of a whirlwind, but it has been SOOO much fun. I'll fill you guys in later...but it's been a really awesome, Awesome time :)

2006-06-09T16:10:00.000-07:00

Audition: "Where There Is Smoke" @ JS Snyder & Associates

Hello SAG!

2006-06-08T17:34:00.000-07:00

Sooo, I officially joined SAG today. I figured, "Why wait, right?!" It's time for me to really do this LA thang.

The cutest thing happened when I went into the SAG office. I walked through the door and asked the information desk for directions to the membership office. There were a few people standing around the desk including the mailman for the building. He asked me if I was about to join the Union, and I told him yes. Then he was like, "Follow me, let me show you something." I started follow him then I was like, "Wait a minute! What you wanna show me?!" LOL. Anyway, I followed him into the mail room where he showed me this kinda mini "wall of fame". There were a few unknown faces as well as a few well-knowns, including Halle Berry. He told me that he'd really appreciate it if I'd contribute something to his wall, ya know...in case I blow up...LOL. I told him I'd drop by after I joined...which I did. I gave him a headshot and a postcard for the film. He was a very nice older man, and was very appreciative...he even asked me to autograph it...lol! I told him I would if he would let me take a picture of him with my picture next to the wall. He agreed and I took the first picture, but he was looking all mean...I was like, "Look, you holding my picture, you supposed to be smilin'!" We took another one (posted below) he gave me a little smirk, and I autographed my headshot for him. I'm so bad at signing stuff...I wrote "To Iris, 'Keep smilin' :)! Thanks for your support, Jillian." It seemed cute at the time, but when I got to the car I thought...dag...I probably sounded like a broke a** Dionne Warwick, lol. Anyway, it was cute signing the autograph for him, he was very nice...he showed me pics of his family and he told me I to stop by anytime. Awwww....what a nice man...and a great little story about my first day joining SAG.

This was the last day of my friend Marie visiting, so I spent the rest of the day being a beach bum with her. Hopefully, I can make it to Chicago this summer to hang out with the crew before they all move away!

Iris and his "Wall of Fame" :)

Marie and I hangin' at the Beach

2006-06-07T19:31:00.000-07:00

I attended a little party for my friend Marie from Chicago tonight. I miss my Chicago crew :(! Anyway, we had a bunch of fun....it's really cool having her here!

Partay for Marie!

2006-06-06T19:33:00.000-07:00

My friend Marie from Chicago is in town!! She just graduated from DePaul University's MFA program and they had a grad school showcase tonight. It was a pretty cool event and alot of casting directors and agents attended. I even got to see my old grad school teacher Dexter Bullard...which was kinda surreal! He was like, I remember you when you were doing that "Oh, Eglamour" monologue from Shakespeare's Two Gentlemen of Verona, lol. Wow, that seems like forever ago! It was cool to see them, and hopefully, Marie and I will get to hand out more while she's here.

R.I.P. Honey...You were a True Soilder. I Love You.

2006-06-02T12:20:00.000-07:00

Official Air Date & Time!!!

2006-06-01T08:45:00.001-07:00

"Let's Talk" finally has an official airdate!

June 25 @ 12pm And 10pm! Tune in, Tivo...whateva... but don't miss it ;)!! National AIDS Testing day is June 27th.

Also, "Let's Talk" is now an Official Selection of the San Francisco Black Film Festival AND a current FINALIST for the Mario Van Peebles Award!

2006-05-31T08:49:00.000-07:00

Audition: Pier One @ Cathi Carlton Casting

Wow...I've never seen Castaway Studios so dead!! It was a little erie, I guess Hollywood is officially on vacation. I've been pretty light on auditions lately, but I haven't really had a lot of time to notice with all that's been going on. I'm trying to make some really positive moves in the near future and I've been busy getting my game plan together, so I can't say I mind things being a little slow right now. I like to think of it as the calm before the storm :).

So you wanna be on the radio....

2006-05-30T08:55:00.000-07:00

Guess who's got their first radio interview for their first lead role in a tv film :)My girl Apryl from back home hooked this up for me. Good lookin' out gyrl!!!

It will be a 10 or 15 minute interview on a Morning show that airs on stations in IL, St. Louis & SC (not sure if it's in any other markets). I don't have all the details yet, but we're looking at a tentative date of June 23rd. The show includes personalities Tony Scott & Guy Torry.

It's funny...I used to go see Guy's brother at The Comedy House in Columbia, South Carolina ALL the time! I actually saw him last year at a party Mekhi had, too. Anyway, it's pretty cool to go from a fan to a guest on his morning show...movin on up, baby :)!

Life is SOOOO good and I am SOOOO Blessed! GOD is simply amazing and I will forever give him thanks and praise :)

Happy Memorial Day!!

2006-05-29T09:13:00.000-07:00

Hope everyone had a wonderful Memorial Day!! Mine was excellent. My girlfriend and I had an impromptu cookout that turned out to be a lot of fun. I must say I've never played charades quite like this before :)

Special thanks to all the veterans who have served and sacrificed. We honor all of you today.

Kickin Back on the Holiday

2006-05-24T09:35:00.000-07:00

Today was a day of recovery...lol. I think I celebrated the completion of the website just a little too much yesterday. It's NOT what you think...well, maybe a little, lol.

First, I met up with Michelle & Lamman for a Capoeria class at this cool place called Capoeira Batuque. Talk about a workout! That dude kicked out butts!! I was literally pouring with sweat, Lamman looked like someone had thrown a bucket of water over his head and Michelle was wo' out, too. I was like, 'this don't feel like celebratin' to me!" LOL. It was cool though, I actually did a front flip for the first time EVER!! I'd definitley go back.

After I got home and took a power nap (I'm tellin ya, that class wore a sista out!) a very good friend and all around BEAUTIFUL person accompanied me on my mission to celebrate. My girlfriend works at Zanzibar so we decided to hang out there...thanks for taking care of us LC! Zanzibar is a really cool place and I was in really cool company which made for a really, really, really cool night. I honestly can't remember the last time I had sooo much fun. Thanks GM...THAT'S what I call celebrating, lol!

After such a long day yesterday, its no wonder that I woke up this morning and could barely move! Between dancing and that crazy Capoeira class I was all jacked up. But I have to admit, I don't mind being sore. It makes me feel like I did some real work. I even took the twins to the kids class this afternoon. It was less intense, but they got a pretty good work out too, much to their dismay...lol.

Finally!! At Long Last!!

2006-05-23T11:08:00.000-07:00

After WEEKS of hard work, LONG days and LATE nights the Let's Talk website is FINALLY up!!!!! This is the first site I've ever designed for someone other than myself...it was a lot of work, but I'm really proud of how it turned out! BIG thanks to Michelle (the director and my friend) for being there every step of the way! OK, here's the info:

On the Web: www.letstalkthemovie.com
On Myspace: www.myspace.com/letstalkthemovie
Me on Myspace: www.myspace.com/jillian reeves

Come by and check us out!!!!

The Let's Talk Poster (Designed by yours truly; Enhanced by the support and input of many others :)

2006-05-21T10:41:00.000-07:00

In the words of Tony, Toni, Tone..."Doooo youuuu know what today is? It's our anniversary..." One year ago today I married Mr. Efren Ortiz, Jr. In some ways it seems like yesterday and sometimes it seems like a lifetime ago. As Forrest Gump said, "Sometimes there just aren't enough rocks." Funny, as much as I talk, words are kinda failing me right now. I guess..."That's all I have to say about that..."

Tonight I attended a production of The Bachellorette @ The Los Angeles Theatre Center. My friend and cast mate from Let's Talk, Janora McDuffie, performed in a starring role. Congrats girl! You rocked that role :)

2006-05-20T11:36:00.000-07:00

Audition: Robbin in Da Hood (feature) - Role of Jessie (lead female role)

This audition went well...pretty funny. Sometimes I surprise myself with some of the things that come out of my mouth...lol.

2006-05-17T11:31:00.000-07:00

Let's Talk has been accepted into the San Francisco Black Film Festival!! Very cool! I've never been to San Francisco so I'm very excited for this opportunity. We screen on June 10 @ 2:30pm, but we'll probably head up for the whole weekend. Should be a nice little get away!

The Let's Talk website is almost ready to publish, which is also exciting. It's been alot of work and I can't wait to get upload it and start promoting the film. Could web design, marketing and promotion work be in my future?? Could be, could be not...who's to say...lol

2006-05-16T11:26:00.000-07:00

My Aunt Debbie had surgery today. She was diagnosed with lung cancer and today she had a large portion of her lung removed. Any believers, please take a moment and mention her name in your prayers. I believe that the prayers of the righteous availeth much. Any you can offer is greatly appreciated.

2006-05-15T14:07:00.000-07:00

Finally got the script for that AXE short and unfortunately I had to pass. Just not the right project for me. Ah well...I'm sure there will be many more opportunities coming my way soon...hopefully Very soon :)

Happy Mama's Day!

2006-05-14T08:44:00.000-07:00

Hope all the mother's had a great day today! Especially my fellow single moms...I know it gets hard ladies, but it will all pay off in the end. Here's to YOU...to Us :)

My Mother's day was lovely. I received two beautiful handmade cards, went to the park and out to dinner. We went to Outback Steakhouse which was one of my favorite restaurant in South Carolina. I hadn't been there in like 8 years, but today it was my choice. We had to drive to Torrance to get there, but it was soooo worth it :)

I'm always exhausted on Sundays these days since I started working on the weekend. My blog writing has been pretty sparse lately, but I've been soooo busy. It's funny, I thought I was gonna be depressed during this time of the year...and although there are times where I definitely feel blue the beauty of life won't let me stay that way for to long. That in and of itself is a blessing.

I called E's sister a few days ago...we both talked about how we've been meaning to call and how we think of each other often. It's good to know that we're in each others hearts though we don't talk often. She is such a great person but I have to admit talking to her brings up some pretty difficult emotions. She told me that whenever she thinks of E she thinks of me and the love I brought to him and their family. That simple statement brought me so much comfort and solace. The power of words is really amazing. I told her that I might come through Chicago this summer and she said she'd be honored if I stayed with them. Truthfully I am honored by her offer. She was the sister E was closest to and it's so easy to see why. She's kind and compassionate, and maybe the most understanding woman on the planet. I usually end up a bit of a mess when I talk to her, but for the first time ever, I talked to her without crying. Strangely enough THAT made me sad...lol. Life can be strange that way I guess...

I sent my mom and E's mom flowers for today. I have to admit I've been working so hard that I Mother's Day kinda snuck up on me. My mom got her flowers yesterday and though she complained b/c she could tell I spent a lot of money, she couldn't hide how happy she was to get them. She was all like, "I got the Big, Beautiful Flowers you sent. You don't need to be spending this kinda money...but they are Beautiful!"...lol. My aunt told me she started crying when she received them, so I figure it was worth every penny. I am a big believer in showing people you appreciate them while you can...I don't need to get hit by a truck to remember to appreciate my mama. E's mom should get her flowers today. He always went the most amazing bouquets...I mean AMAZING. I couldn't let the day go by without making sure she got her flowers this year. I hope they bring her some joy in this difficult season.

Things are great on the work front. I have been sooo busy working on the website and poster for "Let's Talk" over the last few weeks and it's almost done! It's been ALOT of work but hopefully it'll be worth it. We just brought a great publicist (and awesome guy), on board in hopes of really maximizing the potential of this project. It's amazing how much work goes into the prep, production and promotion of a film...it's been a great learning experience for me.

I still haven't receive the script for the AXE film project that I got cast in. I'm a little concerned because rehearsals start this week but I really can't commit to the project without seeing the script! Hopefully, I'll get it soon.

2006-05-13T11:07:00.000-07:00

Today the kids, some friends and I attended the Revlon Cancer Walk. This was a 5k walk around the USC area. Seeing so many whose lives have been affected by this disease was really touching and made for very emotional day. In addition to the personal loss I've experienced from this disease, about a week ago I found out that both my uncle and aunt have been diagnosed with cancer. So the children walked in support of my uncle and aunt, and I walked in memory of E. There were people of all ages, from very elderly walking with the aid of a cane to the very young riding in a stroller. The kids did a great job and were proud to be a part of the day too. There were people laughing, crying, rejoicing and reflecting. I did a little bit of of it all...as I'm sure most people did. It was hard not too...emotions can be complex that way. It was a beautiful, moving, inspiring, touching event and I am very happy that I was a part of it.

Afterwards we attended a friend's barbecue with was fun. I should probably have a get together soon myself. I've been really fortunate to have met some wonderful people in LA, it would be nice to celebrate them :)

The Signs. The Yellow heading is "In Memory Of" the Blue is "In Support Of" and the Red is for Cancer Survivors. Click the photos to enlarge.

Our Journey.

Our Signs.

The Crowd. It's amazing to see how many people are affected because of this disease.

BBQ with friends. Fun time...gotta do this more often!

2006-05-12T12:40:00.000-07:00

BOOKED!!! BUT...

Ok, so I've been cast in one of the films in the AXE project BUT... the it was for a different character than I read for and the new character seems a little "suspect". The first red flag was when the CD said, don't worry you don't have to do anything slutty...you just get into a fight. Hmmmm.....I'll wait until I get the script, but this might be a project I have to pass on.

2006-05-12T12:17:00.000-07:00

Audition: The Curious Case of Benjamin Button @ Laray Mayfield
Callback: Jeep @ (I forget the name...lol) Casting

The audition was for a good-sized role in this feature film that shoots this fall in LA. It went GREAT! Laray was very supportive and gave me alot of positive feedback. I would love to work on a project like this!

The callback went really well too. The role is for a Jazz singer and I sang "God Bless the Child" and received a rousing applause. It was sooo much fun and I would love to do this spot!

2006-05-10T12:30:00.000-07:00

Audition: AXE Project @ Pamela Azmi-Andrew Casting

This audition is for a series of shorts that will be judged by F. Gary Gray at the American Black Film Festival (ABFF) in Miami this July. The films will then tour about 20 HBCU's around the country. This audition went pretty well. We also submitted Let's Talk to ABFF...it'd be kinda cool to be in two films at same festival :)