By: The Don

This is a special interview for me– not only is this Phillytainment’s 20th Faces of Entertainment interview, but I had the opportunity and privilege of interviewing news anchor and local celebrity Jessica Kartalija. Jessica is currently the news anchor of CBS 3 evening news. Originally from California, Jessica could not wait to return to the city where her mother grew up. The pride, the love, and of course our EAGLES! She is also a fellow Nittany Lion alum! Jessica has built a career in journalism for almost twenty years, but what also fascinated me was that she has made a few cameo appearances in films and tv series (we are hoping for more)! You can catch Jessica live on the CBS 3 evening news in Philly!

Interview

What is your name?

Jessica Kartalija.

How long have you been in the journalism field?

Since 2001.

Where are you from originally?

Del Mar, California.

Do you miss the sunny, warm California weather?

Every Day.

Why did you choose Philadelphia?

I have always loved Philadelphia, my mother grew up here. When I was offered an anchor position at CBS 3, it was an incredible opportunity for our family!

What do you love most about Philly?

The love and pride we have for our city!

We saw that you made a very short appearance in the film Transformers (2007), what was it like being on the set?

It was a blast! I played a reporter and it was so much fun! It was so great seeing how they do the special effects and how they edited the scene to make it look like we were under attack.

Have you done any other films/tv series?

I play a news anchor in House of Cards and in the new series shot in Philadelphia, Servant.

Do you have any upcoming films/tv shows/scenes coming up?

Not that I know of!!!

What was your first-ever news piece?

A story about undocumented immigrants crossing into Arizona from Mexico.

What do you love most about being a news anchor?

I love the team! Ukee Washington, Kate Bilo, and Don Bell have become very close friends. I love that we get to learn something new every day!

Have you ever gotten nervous when you anchor the news?

Yes, But nerves are good… They keep you on your toes! Also, it’s important to stay humble and grounded…

What do you not like about being in journalism?

Sadly, we cover a lot of very tragic stories. It’s hard to leave work and not continue to think about everyone affected.

Do you still report in the field much?

Yes, but I am in the studio mostly.

What adversities have you encountered in the journalism field?

When you are starting out in TV news, you have to be willing to pay your dues. That means working long hours, in small markets, often far from home.

Was being a news anchor what you wanted to do originally?

Yes! Always. I have wanted to be a news anchor since I was in middle school… I started interning when I was in high school for the CBS station in San Diego. I was immediately hooked.

Do you have a favorite topic you like to report on?

I love my segment “A Chat With…” that airs on Fridays! It is such a great opportunity to meet really interesting people with ties to our community!

What is your favorite movie?

Forrest Gump.

What is your favorite TV series?

Schitt’s Creek.

What is your favorite music type?

Alternative Rock.

Who is your favorite Celebrity?

Oprah Winfrey. I love when people use their “celebrity” for the greater good. I met her once, and she was incredibly genuine.

Who is your favorite actor/actress?

Reese Witherspoon… She is setting an incredible example for women in film and business. She is the whole package!

Do you have a favorite Superhero(es) and why?

Yes, everyone working on the frontline of this COVID-19 pandemic. These doctors and nurses are true superheroes!

Eagles, Chargers or Rams fan?

E-A-G-L-E-S!

Is there an inspiration that you look up to?

My Dad!

What’s your favorite event here in the city?

The Italian Market Festival.

What’s your favorite spot you like to visit here in the city and why?

We love riding bikes on Kelly Drive and hiking the trails along the Wissahickon Creek.

Where do you see yourself in ten years?

In ten years, I would love to be in a position to mentor aspiring journalists. I would also love to teach a journalism class at one of the many incredible universities in our area!

What advice do you have for others?

There are no shortcuts to any place worth going, so show up prepared and be ready to pay your dues!