Actress Rachel Bay Jones is having the time of her life playing Audrey, the no-nonsense mother of Mandy on the hit show Georgie & Mandy’s First Marriage. This character first made an appearance on Young Sheldon, where she was introduced with a sharp tongue and a knack for cutting people down. But for Rachel, diving into Audrey’s world is a thrilling experience.
Embracing Audrey’s Edgy Persona
“Audrey is such a complex character,” Rachel explains with a smile. “She doesn’t mince words and says things I’d never dream of uttering in real life. It’s a blast for me to explore what drives someone to behave this way. She’s not just mean for the sake of being mean—there’s depth to her, and that’s what makes her so fascinating to play.”
A Journey Through the Spotlight
Rachel’s career journey is nothing short of inspiring. Growing up as the daughter of two Shakespearean actors, she made her Broadway debut in 1989 in a revival of Meet Me in St. Louis. For two decades, she worked tirelessly in the industry, gradually building her reputation. Her breakthrough moment came with her portrayal of Heidi in Dear Evan Hansen, which earned her prestigious awards like the Tony, Grammy, and Emmy.
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“I never expected to find success in my 40s,” Rachel reflects. “Now, at 55, I’m living a dream I never thought possible. Every day is a gift, and I’m grateful for every step of the journey.”
Family Roots and Early Beginnings
How did you get started in show business?
Rachel’s love for acting was sparked early on. “My parents were actors, and they met at the Stratford Shakespeare Festival,” she recalls fondly. “One day, my mom had a script sitting on the counter for a play she was auditioning for. I noticed there was a role for someone my age, and I said, ‘I can do that.’ She was thrilled and prepared me for the audition. My grandma even sewed me this adorable outfit. It was magical.”
So your family was incredibly supportive.
“Absolutely,” Rachel says. “They’ve always been my biggest cheerleaders. Even now, they’re over the moon about my career. Funny enough, my 21-year-old daughter recently decided she wants to be an actor too. Initially, I was hesitant because I know how tough this business can be. But when she came to me crying, saying, ‘Mom, I’m sorry to disappoint you, but I want to act,’ I realized she had the passion. Thankfully, she’s talented, which makes me breathe a little easier.”
Advice for the Next Generation
What advice did you give her?
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“I told her that the industry and acting are two entirely different things,” Rachel explains. “When it comes to the industry, stay true to who you want to be as an artist. As for acting, always be honest. That’s what resonates with audiences and keeps you grounded in your craft.”
The Big Break
What do you consider your big break?
“Without a doubt, it was Pippin on Broadway,” Rachel shares. “That show was a game-changer. It was critically acclaimed and brought a lot of attention to my work. It was such a joy to perform every night, and I formed lifelong friendships with my co-stars—Charlotte d’Amboise, Terrence Mann, and Annie Potts. They’re some of my closest friends to this day.”
