Jessamine-Bliss Bell

Jessamine-Bliss Bell is an actor who grew up in Paris, lived in NYC, now based in London. We’re welcomed into Jess’ flat on a 30 degree day, she’s munching on coconut bits and wearing vintage cowboy boots (“they’re 3 sizes too small but I love them!"). Instantly we want to be friends. Read on for tips on where to eat, what living in NYC brings and some movie recommends from this up-and-coming star.

Thank you for being our Miss August! What is your personal style in three words? 

"Is this ok?"

In terms of shopping, impulse buy or investment item? 

I never really shop, but I occasionally have an impulsive investment vintage buy. Those are usually the items I hang on to. 

  Last item of clothing you gave away, and why? 

A beaded bikini, my friend Lisa looked so banging in it - I had to. 

You’re now an actress in London, but grew up in Paris - tell us a little bit about how you got to this point. 

I moved to Paris with my Mum when I was 8. At the time I didn’t really realise how it would impact me. But learning French and growing up between two cultures has influenced my life in so many ways, it was an amazing opportunity. I always wanted to act, and I guess the work has brought me back to London. But it means I can also work in France, which I’m very grateful for. The two experiences are very different, but I like exploring the work. 

  What does an average day look like for you? 

I spend a lot of time in Highgate where I live, I’m a bit of a loner! Generally a walk in the woods or a swim in the ponds at the Heath if it’s nice out, reading scripts and then self tapes or work on auditions. A lot of cooking and convincing my friends to come visit. If not I go into Soho.

You also lived in NYC for a little while, how did you find that experience? 

New York was amazing, I moved there when I was 19. So everything was new and exciting. I loved the energy there, just walking around the streets you really feel it. I was at acting school which was super intense and a lot of fun, I learned so much. I never got bored, met some wonderful (and some CRAZY) people. It’s an incredible city with so much to offer, and has left me with many stories to tell, including getting evicted and barking at my neighbour…TBC. 

  Best places to eat in London, Paris and NYC. GO! 

 

 

What’s a film that has influenced you? 

There are so many! But to name a few I loved Fellini’s 8 1/2 and then discovered the work of Paolo Sorrentino, namely Youth which I think is a masterpiece.  

Luca Guardagnino’s films also especially I Am Love. I think Tilda Swinton is incredible. Which leads me to Jim Jarmusch’s work which I am a huge fan of. Then there is Cate Blanchett’s performance in Blue Jasmine,  and Juliette Lewis’ character Natural Born Killers. 

This year The Square and Lady Bird were really powerful and inspiring for me, Saoirise Ronan is so talented. There’s just too many to name!

What’s next for Jessamine-Bliss Bell? 

  

There are a couple of things on the horizon, but I am always so scared of jinxing them so I’ll keep hush for now! However I have a couple of films coming out next year, and a short film Mercury that has just won a prize at the Hollywood Short Film Festival. I’m also writing a project with my friend that we’re shooting in Milan and then off to Mexico City for another film at the end of the year. All very exciting and should keep me busy.

  

  

Finally a question we ask all of our Preen Line girls; what are the top 3 tracks on your playlist right now? 

  

Canto De Ossanha - Jurassic 5

Vibes - Nicholas Larsen

One Of These Days - Neil Young

  

  

Discover more from Jessamine-Bliss Bell on her instagram: @jessaminebliss

Photography by the amazing Eva K. Salvi - @evaksalvi

And remember to follow @preenline on instagram