Jessica Frances Dukes, known for her role in “Ozark,” recounts how she prepared intensely for her role as FBI agent and forensic accountant Maya Miller. A huge fan of the show, Dukes watched Seasons 1 and 2 multiple times before her audition, studying and absorbing the characters played by Jason Bateman and Laura Linney. Despite feeling initially surprised when she received the audition, Dukes was determined to impress in the room, even though she was late due to New York City subway delays and not dressed appropriately for the part.
Despite her unconventional audition attire, Dukes drew on her extensive preparation and confidence in her abilities to deliver a successful performance. Her background in live theater helped her to embody the character of Maya Miller and connect with the material, despite not initially fitting the role’s appearance. Dukes’ hard work paid off when she received the call that she had been cast as Agent Miller in “Ozark,” with showrunners expressing their excitement to have her on board as a series regular.
Filming “Ozark” was a highlight for Dukes, who describes it as one of the best experiences of her life. Despite the intense and sometimes heavy nature of the show, the set was filled with humor and comedy, particularly thanks to the presence of Jason Bateman, whom Dukes describes as the “king of comedy.” Additionally, Laura Linney’s approach to acting provided Dukes with valuable learning experiences, with one scene in particular standing out as a favorite moment for the actress. Linney’s versatility and skill in approaching the scene from different angles left Dukes in awe.
The camaraderie and sense of family on set contributed to a positive and enjoyable filming experience for Dukes. The light-hearted atmosphere behind the scenes, characterized by communal joking and laughter, helped to balance the serious and dramatic subject matter of the show. Dukes reflects on the supportive and collaborative environment created by her co-stars, particularly highlighting Bateman’s down-to-earth and ego-free demeanor. The experience of working with such talented actors like Bateman and Linney left a lasting impression on Dukes and enriched her as an actress.
Dukes recalls one memorable scene with Laura Linney, where the actress demonstrated her versatility by approaching the scene in multiple ways. Linney’s ability to switch between different character interpretations in the same scene impressed Dukes and provided her with insight into the craft of acting. Dukes’ theater background allowed her to be open and responsive to Linney’s choices, creating a dynamic and engaging performance. The collaborative and spontaneous nature of the scene reinforced Dukes’ belief in the power of authentic and reactive acting, emphasizing the importance of staying present in the moment.
Overall, Dukes’ experience on “Ozark” was marked by a combination of hard work, preparation, humor, and collaboration. The supportive and welcoming atmosphere on set, coupled with the opportunity to work alongside talented actors like Jason Bateman and Laura Linney, made the experience one of personal and professional growth for Dukes. Through her dedication to the role of Maya Miller and her willingness to learn from her co-stars, Dukes was able to deliver a compelling and authentic performance that earned her a place as a series regular on the acclaimed Netflix drama. The lessons and memories from filming “Ozark” will undoubtedly stay with Dukes as she continues to pursue her acting career.
