Jane Levy, an actress who captivated audiences with her diverse roles across movies and TV shows, has become a household name over the years. Known for her compelling performances, she has earned praise for portraying characters ranging from quirky sitcom leads to intense horror protagonists. From her breakout role in Suburgatory to her starring part in the thriller Don’t Breathe, Jane Levy’s career has seen a rich variety of roles.
Early Beginnings: A Star in the Making
Born on December 29, 1989, in Los Angeles, California, Jane Levy started her acting career with small roles, but her talent quickly caught the attention of casting agents. Her early TV appearance in Shameless (2011), where she played Mandy Milkovich, allowed viewers to see her potential. Although her role was brief, it set the stage for her subsequent success.
Suburgatory: A Breakout Role
Levy’s breakout role came in the form of Tessa Altman in the ABC sitcom Suburgatory (2011–2014). The show followed Tessa, a teenager who moves from New York City to a suburban town, trying to adjust to a life that’s vastly different from her previous one. The show was well-received, and Levy’s performance as the witty, rebellious Tessa earned her widespread recognition, solidifying her status as a rising star in Hollywood.
The Horror Genre: Evil Dead and Don’t Breathe
Levy’s career took a thrilling turn when she entered the horror genre. In 2013, she starred in the remake of Evil Dead, playing Mia Allen. The film, which was a reboot of the cult classic, received praise for its intense atmosphere and Levy’s gripping performance. This role marked a significant departure from her earlier comedic work and showcased her versatility as an actress.
The following year, Levy starred in Don’t Breathe (2016), directed by Fede Álvarez. Playing Rocky, a young woman who breaks into a blind man’s house with disastrous consequences, Levy’s role in Don’t Breathe received critical acclaim. The film was a box-office success, grossing over $150 million globally, further solidifying her reputation as a formidable talent in both horror and thriller genres.
Other Notable Film Roles
Levy also appeared in several other films, showcasing her range as an actress. In I Don’t Feel at Home in This World Anymore (2017), she portrayed Dez, a woman who teams up with her neighbor to track down thieves who stole her belongings. The film was well-received at the Sundance Film Festival, and Levy’s performance earned her praise for her depth and emotional range.
In Monster Trucks (2016), she played Meredith, a supporting role in a family-friendly adventure film about a monster truck racing event. This role displayed Levy’s ability to adapt to different genres, including family-oriented films.
Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist: A Musical Turn
In 2020, Levy took on a completely different role in Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist, a musical dramedy that aired on NBC. Levy played Zoey Clarke, a young woman who begins hearing people’s innermost thoughts through songs. The series, while only running for two seasons, was a hit with critics, who praised Levy’s performance as the emotionally complex Zoey. The show’s catchy musical numbers and Levy’s charming performance contributed to its devoted fanbase.
Castle Rock and What/If: Psychological Thrillers and Anthologies
Levy’s ability to step into dark, psychological roles continued with her part as Jackie Torrance in Castle Rock (2018), a Hulu series based on Stephen King’s works. Playing the niece of Jack Torrance from The Shining, Levy’s portrayal was eerie and captivating, cementing her status in the thriller genre.
In What If (2019), Levy appeared alongside Renée Zellweger in a Netflix anthology series that explores the moral consequences of a single decision. Levy’s performance as a young woman whose life is changed by a wealthy benefactor’s offer was praised for adding depth to the show’s emotional landscape.
More Recent Projects: Expanding Her Range
In 2023, Jane Levy appeared in A Little Prayer, a drama that showcased her talent for portraying emotionally nuanced characters. She also lent her voice to the animated character in The Toxic Avenger (2024), expanding her range into the world of animation.
Levy’s future looks bright, with a variety of genres and roles that promise to challenge and showcase her ever-growing skills. From thrillers to musicals and dramas, Jane Levy continues to be a force in Hollywood, known for her ability to seamlessly switch between genres and bring depth to her roles.
Conclusion
Jane Levy’s career trajectory has been nothing short of remarkable. From her comedic roots in Suburgatory to her terrifying turns in Evil Dead and Don’t Breathe, she has proven herself a versatile actress. With a growing list of films and TV shows under her belt, including her role in the fan-favorite Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist, Jane Levy is a name to watch in the entertainment industry. Her talent, range, and ability to captivate audiences ensure she will continue to leave a lasting impression for years to come.
