Talia Jackson Reveals Season 2 Insights, Jade’s Growth, and Her Thriving Music Career on ‘Family Reunion’
Talia Jackson, one of the shining talents on Netflix’s beloved family sitcom Family Reunion, is gearing up for an exciting second season. Fans of the McKellan family can rejoice as the show’s renewal promises more laughter, relatable family dynamics, and significant character development. Jackson portrays Jade McKellan, the eldest daughter of Cocoa and Moz, a character who has quickly resonated with audiences for her journey of adaptation and self-discovery. As production for the new season commences, Talia shared exclusive insights with HollywoodLife, discussing her hopes for Jade’s storyline and offering a glimpse into her own burgeoning music career.
For Jade in particular, Talia envisions a deeper exploration of her academic life, a side of the character that was only hinted at in the initial episodes. “I want to explore her academic side because we get a little peek of how she is in school, and from what we see she doesn’t really put herself out there that much with her homework and just grades and whatnot,” Talia explained. Her curiosity stems from a desire to understand Jade’s true potential. “But I would love to see where she really stands. If she really is just a very smart young lady and she just doesn’t work hard enough for that.” This line of questioning opens up fascinating avenues for teenage viewers who often grapple with similar academic pressures and self-motivation. Beyond just grades, Talia also expressed a strong desire to flesh out Jade’s social environment at school. “I also really want to see more of her school life. I didn’t see a lot of her school friends and what she does at school [in season 1].” Expanding on Jade’s peer relationships and daily school experiences would undoubtedly add more layers to her character, making her journey through adolescence even more authentic and engaging for the show’s audience, particularly as she navigates a new social landscape in Columbus after moving from Seattle.
Jade’s Journey: A Reflection of Talia’s Own Path to Self-Discovery
Interestingly, the challenges and growth Jade experiences on screen have a parallel in Talia’s personal life, albeit with a unique twist. Talia revealed that Jade’s journey of adapting to a new environment and finding her place mirrors her own coming-of-age story. “I feel like Jade’s journey is a little bit like a mine in a sense except a little opposite because I grew up in Madison, Wisconsin, until I was like six or seven years old,” Talia recounted. Her connection to her roots remains strong, as she adds, “I still go back and forth. I like to spend my summers out there to get away from the Hollywood life.” This duality of experience, living in both the vibrant entertainment hub of Los Angeles and the more serene environment of Wisconsin, has profoundly shaped her perspective.
For Jade, the transition involves moving from the bustling, metropolitan vibe of Seattle—which Talia likens to Los Angeles—to the more traditional, community-focused setting of Columbus, a place she compares to Wisconsin. This significant geographical and cultural shift forms the core of Jade’s personal struggle and growth. “But I would say for Jade it’s different because she’s coming from Seattle, which is a little more like Los Angeles, and moving to Columbus, which is a little more like Wisconsin, and she’s trying to figure out herself in the same way that I did.” The shared experience of being uprooted and having to redefine oneself in a new setting is a powerful and universal theme. Talia elaborates on this, stating, “When I moved out here from Wisconsin, I felt like I kind of came into the person I was meant to be. Although it did take me a while and it takes Jade little bit too, we both become more accepting of our natural selves.” This insightful comparison highlights the deep understanding Talia has for her character, allowing her to infuse Jade with genuine emotion and authenticity as she navigates the complexities of adolescence, cultural assimilation, and ultimately, self-acceptance.
The Onscreen Chemistry: Tia Mowry-Hardrict as a Mentor and ‘Second Mom’
A significant part of Talia Jackson’s experience on Family Reunion has been the invaluable mentorship and bond she shares with Tia Mowry-Hardrict, who plays her onscreen mother, Cocoa McKellan. Their chemistry on screen is palpable, reflecting a deep respect and affection that extends beyond the set. Talia spoke glowingly about Tia, emphasizing the profound impact she has had on her journey as a young actress. “I love Tia. She’s like my second mom pretty much,” Talia gushed, underscoring the genuine connection they share.
This maternal dynamic isn’t just for show; it’s a supportive presence Talia feels keenly during production. “Especially when I’m on set, she hops into mom mode and is automatically protective,” she revealed. This protective instinct and nurturing nature provide a comforting and secure environment for Talia, allowing her to thrive creatively. Beyond emotional support, their connection extends to surprising commonalities that further strengthen their bond. “We have the same type of food restrictions and we kind of like work the same way with our brains and our bodies and everything,” Talia pointed out. These shared traits hint at a natural synchronicity and understanding that undoubtedly translates into their authentic portrayal of a mother-daughter relationship on Family Reunion. Tia Mowry-Hardrict, a seasoned veteran of the entertainment industry, brings a wealth of experience and wisdom, serving as an inspirational figure for Talia. Her guidance not only helps Talia navigate the intricacies of acting but also offers broader life lessons, shaping her development both as an artist and as an individual.
The strength of their relationship is a cornerstone of the McKellan family’s dynamic, contributing to the show’s overall warmth and relatability. It showcases the power of positive mentorship within the demanding world of television production and underlines why the McKellan family feels so genuinely connected to audiences worldwide.
Balancing Acting and a Budding Music Career: The Multifaceted Talent of Talia Jackson
Beyond her captivating presence on screen, Talia Jackson is also a remarkably talented musician, actively pursuing a career in music alongside her acting endeavors. Her passion for creative expression knows no bounds, encompassing not only performance but also songwriting and scriptwriting. Fans recently got a taste of her musical artistry with the release of her new single, “5FIVE,” which showcases her unique sound and vocal prowess. This foray into music highlights Talia’s versatility and commitment to exploring all facets of her artistic identity.
Balancing two demanding creative fields like acting and music presents significant challenges, but Talia approaches it with enthusiasm and discipline. She shared insights into how she manages her time and energy across these different ventures. “I’ve started to write for both film and television and music, of course,” Talia noted, emphasizing the integral role writing plays in her creative process. “I kind of do it in my free time. Of course, I’m going back to work now on set so that’ll slow down a little bit.” This acknowledgement of the shifting demands between filming schedules and personal projects underscores the reality of an artist’s life, where flexibility and passion are key.
Her music is a deeply personal endeavor, often involving collaboration. “I co-wrote my songs with another producer,” she explained, highlighting the synergy involved in bringing her musical visions to life. This collaborative spirit extends beyond music, as Talia also enjoys crafting narratives for other mediums. “I like to write scripts on the side, too, because I just feel like it’s good to get what’s in my head on paper, you know?” For Talia, writing is more than just a creative outlet; it serves a therapeutic purpose. “Even if it doesn’t go anywhere, it just is kind of soothing and like relaxing, to get it all out.” This candid reflection reveals the emotional and psychological benefits she derives from the act of creation, whether it’s penning lyrics that resonate with her personal experiences or developing characters and storylines for the screen. Her ability to juggle these various artistic pursuits while maintaining a high level of performance in each speaks volumes about her dedication and multifaceted talent. As Family Reunion moves into its second season, audiences can anticipate not only more of Jade McKellan’s evolving story but also the continued growth of Talia Jackson as a dynamic and inspiring artist across multiple creative platforms.