Jen Jacob is stepping into the spotlight as Ashley Morgan in CBS’s much-anticipated new drama Beyond the Gates, set to premiere on February 24, 2025. Known for her versatile acting skills, Jacob is transitioning from guest spots and recurring roles to become one of the show’s main leads. Get ready to celebrate this exciting new chapter in her career, as she invites fans to raise a glass of mimosas and join her on this thrilling adventure!
From Bucks County to the Bright Lights
Born and raised in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, Jen Jacob’s love for acting began at a young age. As she shared on the Mindset Artistry podcast, she was always drawn to the stage, participating in everything from high school productions to community theater and camp performances. Her early passion led her to pursue a B.F.A. in Acting at the prestigious Tisch School of the Arts in New York, where she honed her craft alongside some of the industry’s best.
A Flourishing Acting Career
Since graduating, Jen Jacob’s career has been anything but ordinary. With a dynamic presence in both theater and film, she’s taken on various roles across TV and stage. Recently, she starred in The Union, a Netflix film featuring heavyweights Halle Berry and Mark Wahlberg. Her television credits include guest spots on hit shows like CBS’s Bull, NBC’s New Amsterdam, and HBO’s Girls. Perhaps most notably, Jacob had a recurring role in Law & Order: Organized Crime, where she portrayed Bridget Donnelly, wife to Denis Leary’s character, for four gripping episodes.
But it’s not just about the big and small screens for Jacob. She’s also faced some of the most difficult challenges an actor can take on—like starring in a one-woman show. As she told The Times Square Chronicles, taking on such a project was a test of courage, but one that ultimately paid off as she proved her versatility and determination.
From Personal Milestones to Professional Triumphs
In addition to her thriving career, Jen Jacob’s personal life is just as inspiring. In 2018, she married singer and songwriter Jesse Ruben. Before their wedding, Ruben even wrote a heartfelt song about their future life together, which became the centerpiece of a beautiful music video featuring their wedding photos and moments. The love and support between the couple is palpable, with Ruben sharing his emotional reaction when his wife landed the role of a lifetime in Beyond the Gates. “I cried happy tears for the first time since our wedding day,” he posted on Instagram, proud of Jen’s dedication and success.
Ashley Morgan: A Role Close to the Heart
Jen Jacob’s new role as Ashley Morgan is one she describes as “having my whole heart.” Ashley is a single mother and a dedicated nurse at Washington D.C.’s Garland Memorial Hospital, where she balances the pressures of her profession with a positive, independent spirit. Described as both resourceful and fun-loving, Ashley is the type of person who can light up a room with her smile—no matter the challenges she faces.
Jacob couldn’t be more thrilled to dive into this new character. “Ashley is exactly the kind of woman I’ve always wanted to portray,” she shares. “She’s strong, kind, and always ready to help others—qualities that I really admire.”
A Bright Future Ahead
The excitement around Beyond the Gates is building, and fans can’t wait to see Jen Jacob shine in this new role. The debut of the series marks an important milestone in her career—a recognition of her talent, hard work, and perseverance. As her husband put it, “Good things DO happen to good people who deserve it. And this is just the beginning for her.”
Beyond the Gates premieres on CBS on February 24, 2025, at 2 pm ET / 1 pm CT. Be sure to tune in and see Jen Jacob bring Ashley Morgan to life—this is one actress who’s just getting started.
