Jersey actress lands Netflix drama role

A Jersey actress has secured a role in a popular Netflix romance drama.

Gigi Neil has been cast as Donna, the sister of Jack Sheridan, in Virgin River which comes after what she described as a "bumpy" five-year journey of auditions.

The series follows a nurse seeking a fresh start away from Los Angeles as she moves to a small town in northern California.

Ms Neil will appear in two episodes of the sixth season.

"I absolutely adored Virgin River, so when I got the audition, I couldn't believe it," she said.

"I'm so excited to see the show being so celebrated because it deserves all the recognition."

Ms Neil's love for performing began at the age of six, encouraged by her mother, a ballet teacher.

By 16 she knew she was ready to pursue acting professionally but admitted she recognised the challenges presented to her by living in the Channel Islands.

"Doors aren't naturally open for us because we're geographically further from where everything happens in entertainment," she said.

"But I loved growing up in Jersey, and I really treasure being from the Channel Islands - the community is always there for you."

After five years of living in Vancouver, Ms Neil said further challenges were presented by the pandemic and the Hollywood strikes.

In 2024, Ms Neil worked four jobs just to pay her rent, attend acting classes, and maintain a rigorous gym training routine.

"I want to be a trusted performer and actress that people want to work with consistently," she said.

"But that takes a lot of practise, dedication, and hours honing your craft."

Follow BBC Jersey on X and Facebook. Send your story ideas to [email protected].