In October last year, Jessica Treska played Judith in the 1980s-based horror-thriller series Hysteria!, which premiered on Peacock, and she worked alongside Emjay Anthony, Chiara Aurelia, Kezii Curtis and Aline O’Neill. Amongst Jessica’s other projects, she had a guest role in Magnum P.I. in 2023 as Hannah, and played Young Beth in Good Girls, Young Isobel in Roswell, New Mexico, Natalie Keene in the HBO series Sharp Objects and Claire Bishop in feature film Alex & Me. We chatted to Jessica, who told us about playing Judith in horror-thriller series Hysteria!, her guest role of Hannah in Magnum P.I. and filming for Alex & Me as Claire Bishop.

Can you tell us about your character Judith in the 1980s-based horror-thriller series Hysteria!, which premiered on Peacock in October 2024, and was there anything that drew you to the project?

Judith is the popular, cool girl who sits at the top of the school hierarchy. She quickly becomes the love interest, and has Dylan, the protagonist, wrapped around her finger. She loves heavy metal music, and gets Dylan to embrace the occult through his performances. Safe to say this causes some trouble in the town, amidst other strange occurrences. She’s charismatic and enchanting, with evil behind that innocent smile. What a fun character and unique dynamic to portray. The writing is what ultimately drew me to the project. The characters, the plot, the thrill – the way it’s all presented with such creative and intelligent writing. I’ve never seen anything like it.

For those that haven’t seen Hysteria!, why would you recommend watching the series and who do you think it will appeal to?

I recommend everyone watch this series. Mostly for pure entertainment. It is such a fun, creative, and engaging show. Definitely watch if you are a fan of heavy metal, a fan of horror, or grew up during the Satanic Panic of the 80s. Also, anyone who struggled to fit in as a teen, or who struggled to raise teens, will resonate. Unless you can’t handle some light horror, this show is pretty much for everyone.

What was Judith like to play and how was it getting into the 80s costume?

It was so thrilling. By far the most challenging character I’ve ever portrayed, and also the most unique. And wow, the costumes. Everything we wore were authentic 80s pieces, and I loved every bit. The fittings were so much fun, as were the hours spent in hair and makeup. It really does help you get into character and become this new person.

How was it reading the scripts for the first time and how did you prepare for filming?

We didn’t get the next episode’s script until the week before filming. It was always so exciting when the next episode script came out. We’d read it on set, while working, just in awe at what’s to come. So many laughs and gasps shared with castmates as we read what happens next. Preparing to film was fun – we’d FaceTime and run lines the night before. We’re all such good friends, and filming this show felt like summer camp sometimes.

What did you enjoy most about working alongside the rest of the cast, which includes Emjay Anthony, Chiara Aurelia, Kezii Curtis and Aline O’Neill?

I really enjoyed filming a show with so many other young castmates. It really is a privilege. Many of the projects I’ve worked on in the past have been more adult-forward. So filming a show that takes place in high school was really exciting for me. And we all got along so well – they are all so lovely and so talented.

What is it like on set of Hysteria! and did you have any favourite scenes to film?

The set of Hysteria! was incredible. We had a huge stage, beautiful sets left and right, and the most incredible cast and crew. I swear we were laughing all day long. Especially if Bruce (Campbell) was on set that day. I think the homecoming dance was one of my favourite scenes. I missed my high school dances due to the pandemic, so I’ve always wanted to film one. The set was amazing, and it was so fun to see everyone dressed in 80s gowns and suits. We had all the background actors there (who became good friends as well), so it was just so much fun. Also, the lines between Dylan and I during that slow dance are some of my favourites. It always gets a fun reaction from the audience.

How has it been seeing the fan response to the series?

It’s been wonderful! Everyone loves the show and these characters. The edits have been so fun to watch as well 😃.

You had a guest role as Hannah in an episode of Magnum P.I. in 2023, how was this?

So fun! I got to rob a store, get thrown into a getaway van, and play in the Oahu beaches… what’s not to like?! Such a fun character to play.

What was it like playing Young Beth in Good Girls and Young Isobel in Roswell, New Mexico?

Again, so much fun. It’s always fun playing a young version of the main character, trying to match their mannerisms and all. It adds another element to acting. I made great friends on both sets, and I really miss it!

How did you find the experience taking on the role of Natalie Keene in the 2018 HBO series Sharp Objects?

Wow, such an honour to be a part of that show. Amy Adams, Sydney Sweeney, Patricia Clarkson… so many talented actors. I’ll never forget that experience.

What are some of your favourite memories from playing Claire Bishop in the feature film Alex & Me?

Playing soccer for work has got to be my favourite memory. We really would just play a soccer game, while the camera catches bits and pieces. I grew up playing soccer, so this was so fun for me. Again – I made lifelong friends filming that project.

How would you describe your character Claire and what was the film like to be part of?

Claire is a very talented soccer player, but she’s also the popular, mean girl in school who feels threatened by the new girl. Playing the antagonist is always a blast. Although it’s hard to keep a straight face when your on-screen “enemy” is one of your close friends.

Where does your love of acting come from and how did you get into it?

I’ve always loved performing. But honestly, I never really considered acting until I got scouted at the mall, 11 years ago. I ended up really loving it, and here we are!

Do you have any favourite films and TV shows to watch and how do you like to spend your free time?

I love anything space/science-related. I’ve always had a love for astronomy. Interstellar might be one of my favourites. But I’m currently watching Season 2 of Severance, and have been loving it. I spend most of my free time with my family, otherwise you can find me reading, playing piano, or making some good food.

We understand you are involved with charity work, can you tell us about this?

I’ve spent a lot of time volunteering at my local animal shelter. I’ve also volunteered with the LA Mission. It’s something I love and definitely want to do more of!

What are you hoping 2025 brings for you and do you have any projects coming up that you can talk about?

I hope 2025 brings some more exciting, new, and unique projects!

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