After securing a spot as the zombie annihilating "Juliet Starling" in "Lollipop Chainsaw", Cosplayer and gamer Jessica Nigri has quickly become one of the most recognizable faces in gaming. We spoke to Jessica about her experiences throughout the process and channeling her inner geek. Check out what she had to say.
What went through your mind when you found out that you were chosen to be the official "Juliet Starling"?
I was so STUNNED! I could not believe that I had won! I started screaming and jumping around (after I got off the phone with the awesomely fantastic individuals that told me the good news of course)! It really is a dream come true. I still can't believe it!!
How tough was the competition
I was nervous the whole time. I could say that it was INSANELY tough! But the other girls looked so casually natural with everything they did, it really intimidated me. I was just this random gamer cosplayer girl with no prior auditioning/modeling experience; not like them anyway. I felt like it was entirely hopeless! But... I WON. Can you believe it? I can't...and it’s already almost over!
Has being Juliet exposed you to any new experiences?
Yes, of course! I have met so many amazing people, made lifelong friends and I got to meet Norman Reedus.... you know that super awesome sexy guy from the Walking Dead? I was also able to meet one of my most favorite horror movie directors, James Gunn who is a hoot in person! I was also able to meet Suda 51! A legendary cult classic game creator responsible for so many amazingly games! My life has been so amazing lately... I feel so blessed!!
Are there any similarities between Juliet's character your own?
Juliet is exciting, innocent, naïve and all around a gorgeous teenage cheerleader who just wants to save everyone she loves! I feel like Juliet and I are very similar in many ways. We both care so much for others and can sometimes be a little naive.
It would seem like your job is just about looking hot and taking photos with fans. What else goes into your gig?
It’s not really a job at all! It’s a privilege! I get to meet everyone, tell them about the game, geek out about random things while they wait in line for the game and then I get to take awesome pictures with everyone! I have had such a great time and everyone has been so kind it does not feel like a job at all!
Is there anything else you've got coming up that you can speak on?
I have so many things coming up I could not even possibly name them all! Just keep a look out on that horizon because it will be something spectacular I am sure!!
Since the interview news broke that Jessica will also be playing "Rena" of Elsword at this year's Anime Expo.
