Welcome to the first (of many hopefully) exclusive OhSoDivalicious interviews where the staff sit down with a woman in the pro wrestling industry to give us their side of things from wrestling to music! Our first interview features Suvivor winner and former TNA Knockout, Jenna Morasca, who unfortunately had her contract terminated earlier this month. She’s a very sweet, genuine, down to earth lady and it was really amazing to have our first interview wish such a wonderful person. Check out the full interview below and once again Jenna, thanks so much!! x
Marcella: Thank you so much for sitting down with us for an interview. First thing first, how did the opportunity to enter TNA arise?
Jenna: Well I did a movie called “End Game” with one of their stars, Kurt Angle, and he suggested I go meet the team at TNA, so I flew down to Florida and meet everyone and loved them… The rest is history! Kurt was really great to work with on the movie, he plays a great villain.
Trisha: What role did you play?
Jenna: I played the role of the “victim” but I was a fighter!
Trisha: I’m sure you played that really well! :D
Jenna: Thank you!
Marcella: Did the movie making process help you in any way when you were working with TNA?
Jenna: I had done a few movies before doing End Game with Kurt so I would say that all the movies helped me with the scenes on TNA.
Marcella: To bridge off into your time in TNA, what was it like to work with the members of the Main Event Mafia, most notably, Kevin Nash and Sharmell?
Jenna: I feel really honoured to have worked with such legends. Every time I walked on set I was excited to see what was going to happen. To be in the presence of such amazing athletes is wonderful, I couldn’t be happier my first match was with Sharmell.
Trisha: I’m sure it is! My dad’s a huge fan of Kevin Nash
Jenna: Everyone loves the Big Sexy.. lol
Marcella: Speaking about the match with Sharmell, a lot of the internet community went nuts over the match. How much training did you receive for your match with Sharmell and did you find the training hard?
Jenna: Ah the “match”
Trisha: I actually don’t see why people have been so harsh about it…
Marcella: Neither do I, Trisha.
Jenna: Well, I was made aware I was going to have a match a few months before it happened. Keep in mind though at that time we were taping a months’ worth of shows in one trip to Florida. So essentially I only had the days I was in Florida to train. Sharmell and I went early to the ring every day we had a chance, but I would of liked to have say 6 months to practice for my first match. I was concerned about the time. I wanted to also get a trainer and practice in a ring here in NYC where I live on downtime also. But we practiced as much as we could and I am very proud of myself considering I NEVER stepped in a ring before. Anyone who is a hater of the match I would like to see them try and step in the ring. I was and never will be billed as a “wrestler” so I am not sure why people were judging it like a wrestling match two pros would have.
Marcella: One of our staff members, Marc, is currently training to be a wrestler. And he always tells us how hard certain moves are. In fact, he’s training as we speak xD
Jenna: I had bruises in places I did not even know bruised. I even tweeted some of the pictures on my twitter page. I was in a lot of pain…
Trisha: Aww! A survivor in many ways! ;) Bless my cheesiness :P
Jenna: lol I love it
Marcella: I bet! I think people who are really critical of matches don’t understand that there’s so much practice that comes into just doing basic moves.
Jenna: I like having bruises in this case, they were my “war wounds”… Everyone who is super critical is sitting at home eating Doritos on their couch.
Marcella: Definitely. They probably wouldn’t do too well in the ring since they are “know it alls”
Jenna: Exactly…
Marcella: Have you ever thought about becoming a wrestler, or would rather stick to an on screen role?
Jenna: You know I enjoyed my match and was hoping to get to do another with TNA, but as you know they decided not to give me that chance. I really wanted to improve on my match, I’m a perfectionist.
Marcella: What was your initial reaction when you were released from TNA?
Jenna: SHOCK! I had requested two days off to be with my boyfriend as he underwent a very big surgery. My agent informed TNA I needed those days off and they said it was no problem at all to take the time off. They knew the surgery date. Then literally the night before his surgery they called my agent and fired me. I know the rumour was my contract was up and we both agreed to part ways but that is unfortunately not the case. I was shocked, we all were shocked. It really came out of nowhere. I was planning appearances for them this month, did the body scans for the action figures next year, I was planning to be with them for some time. It was a very sad day and very cruel timing. I very much miss all the talent too as I was forming real bonds with them. I still text them back and forth to see how everyone is doing.
Trisha: That’s horrible! Especially under such sad circumstances, it’s just wrong… But it’s nice you’re still in contact with your friends there!
Marcella: That really sucks. How did Ethan respond when he found out that you were released?
Jenna: Oh he was SO sad. And it was such bad timing for him, while he needed to get focused for this big surgery this news was laid on him. He felt like it was his fault I got fired because I took the time off for him and I hate that he feels that way. The last thing he needs to deal with while fighting his cancer is have guilt for my job. But he is sad also for me. He loved that I worked for TNA. He came to the Lockdown Pay Per View with my girlfriend (and fellow Survivor) Heidi and her husband (world series MVP) Cole Hamels. I was excited to bring any celebs and press to the show because I wanted everyone to see how talented TNA wrestlers are. Ethan loved it so much he asked if he could ref one day!!! I brought TV Guide Channel there, had EW do a story, I wanted to spread the word on these great athletes. But unfortunately in the end no one cared about me… I just thought the timing was so cruel. And look I am not being a baby I have been in the business for over 10 years and I know how tough it is but I have never had something like this done to me. Considering our next set of tapings was not for a few weeks I feel like they could have waited to break the news to me.
Trisha: That’s def. their loss! How’s Ethan doing now?
Jenna: Ethan is doing OK. He will have his second chemo treatment soon. He is the toughest and strongest person I know. He continues to inspire me and many others with his fight. He is a true Survivor!
Marcella: In life, it always seems that things happen at the wrong time.
Jenna: This timing was unreal!
Marcella: We all hope Ethan gets back to 100%! :)
Trisha: Ethan’s story is truly inspiring though, our prayers are with him, we’ll be sure to check your twitter/blogs for updates!
Jenna: I know he will! Yes and make sure and vote for him for the GQ Better Man Better World contest, he is giving his winnings to charity… http://www.thegentlemensfund.com/final_vote.asp
Marcella: Personally, I know how hard it is to have a loved one with cancer. My maternal grandmother fought with it for 12 years. And that was one tough for my family. How have you both coped with his cancer? And we definitely will vote for him! :)
Trisha: Will do! ;)
Jenna: Thank you… You have no idea how he loved watching me on TNA. He thought it was so cool
Trisha: It’ll be cool to see The Royals somewhere one day! ;D
Marcella: It must be so cool to be well known. And, haha… Marc and I could only hope to make it to the TV ;)
Jenna: lol, Everyone has their 15 minutes so you never know!
Marcella: You’re right, Jenna! :)
Jenna: :)
Marcella: Just to go back to your time in TNA, one of our readers, Emerson, wondered what it was like hanging out with the Knockouts and Superstars and if you developed any good friendships with any of them?
Jenna: It was great hanging out with them. Some of them welcomed me with open arms and I still keep in contact with many of the girls.. I still have contact with Madison, Taylor, Sharmell, Kurt, Traci. But all the girls I really enjoyed being around. A great group of strong, sexy women!
Marcella: Were there any Knockouts or male wrestlers that you wanted to work with?
Jenna: I was excited to really be around the diversity of everyone. There were only a few people who did not seem to like me being there. But I won’t divulge those guys’ names; they know who they are ;) They pretty much ignored me the entire time I was there…
Trisha: That’s just rude… :S I’ve always been the one to say Hi to the new girl! xD
Jenna: Well, there are always a few who don’t feel that way.
Marcella: It seems to always happen in any workplace. It’s not very cordial or professional. But what can you do with petty people?!
Jenna: exactly, that’s the business. It’s a competitive one.
Marcella: I’m the same way, Trisha. ;) I’m generally too nice and happy o.O
What advice would you give women and men who want to get into the business?
Trisha: (Aka Marc & Marcella! ;))
Jenna: Work hard, always be professional, and never let anyone get you down or crush your dream… oh and I forgot I still am in contact to with our backstage interviewer Lauren, she’s awesome I love her!
Trisha: That’s good advice!
Marcella: Good advice!
Trisha: and aww, we love Lauren! xD
Jenna: Lauren rocks, so professional, never misses a line.
Marcella: She’s so talented and people never give her the proper respect.
Jenna: Agreed.
Marcella: One of our readers, Lory wanted to know, what was the best memory you had during your stint in TNA?
Jenna: Well I have to say my first match was a memory I will never forget. But I also really enjoyed the times in the ladies locker room we would all sit around and tell stories and laugh.
Trisha: Aww!
Marcella: It seems like a really laid back atmosphere.
Jenna: It was fun!
Trisha: My turn for a little question! xD Were you a fan of wrestling prior to your stint in TNA?
Jenna: My Dad watched wrestling while I was growing up so in turn I watched it too!
Trisha: That’s like me! Like I said, my dad’s a Nash fan! :P
Marcella: That’s awesome. My grandpa, uncle, and my dad still to this day watch wrestling with me. Well, when they aren’t too tired. lol
Jenna: lol
Marcella: Did you have a favourite wrestler when you were younger?
Jenna: Oh geez, I think I was too young to remember. But my Dad loved Hulk!
Marcella: Awwh, everyone seems to like Hulk Hogan.
Jenna: I know, it seems that way!
Trisha: Bless how I liked The Rock & Stone Cold… Am I odd? xD
Marcella: Nah, you aren’t Trisha. I like them too ;)
Who would you say is your favourite knockout past or present?
Jenna: Wow that is such a hard question… I almost can’t answer with just one. I love Tara, Taylor, Madison, but Hamada is on a whole other level!
Trisha: I agree! (About Hamada!)
Jenna: To be honest each girl brings a unique POV and skill, like no one is like Daf(fney), she is so original. That can’t be duplicated.
Marcella: Those girls in particular seem to work very hard (Not saying the others don’t)
Jenna: True. They all work their tails off, every one of them, not just the few I mentioned.
Marcella: Daffney is such a legend in wrestling. I remember watching her in WCW.
Jenna: Daf is a pro.
Marcella: She certainly is. :) I’m so pleased that she got a chance to shine in TNA.
Jenna: Agreed
Marc: Agreed for a third time! Hey sorry to interrupt! Hey Jenna :)! It’s Marc from OSD.
Do you tune into WWE at all Jenna?
Jenna: Yes I do at times
Marc: Ooh, which Diva in particular do you like to watch?
Jenna: Well I did like watching Candice Michelle.
Trisha: Aww, I know quite a few Candice fans!
Jenna: But I like Maria too :)
Trisha: She’s sweet; it’s hard not to like her! xD
Marc: I’m liking the feud thingy going on with Maria, Dolph and Melina! Are you a fan of Jillian’s singing, Jenna? :P
Marcella: Oh no! Marc here loves Jillian’s singing! :P He’ll go on about it for ages ;)
Jenna: Why not! LOL and I love a good chick fight/feud
Marc: Me too! We’ve seen a lot of stable feuds between women in TNA, but the ones in WWE are mostly the same… Mickie vs Beth, Melina vs Beth, Michelle vs Melina
Jenna: Totally agree. Solid feuds!
Marc: Solid feuds rock! :P lol
So, If you had to pick any woman from wrestling past or present to feud with, who would it be?
Jenna: hmmm… I would pick Michelle McCool!
Trisha: Any reasons?
Jenna: I love a good blonde!
Marc: Oooh, interesting choice haha..
Marcella: Which would you rather be: face or heel?
Jenna: Heel for sure, way more fun!
Marc: I agree!
Trisha: People always love the bad girl more sometimes, oops…!
Marcella: I would want to be a heel too!
One of our readers, Lolita34 wanted to know if you were in the Knockout tag title match, which fellow knockout would you liked to of had as your tag partner to face Sarita and Taylor?
Jenna: hmmm … do I have to pick a heel?
Marc: Pick whoever! :) & Good question from there Lolita though!
Jenna: Hmm… Probably Tara..as a heel I would pick Madison and Velvet (triple team style)
Trisha: Would you ever have liked to form your own little faction with some Knockouts?
Marc: Madison, Velvet and Tara? :P
Jenna: No Tara if I needed a good guy… Velvet and Madison if I wanted heels, with three people it’s easier to confuse the enemy!
Marc: I like the way you think! haha ;)
Marcella: Haha… Good ideas! Marc, you better be writing these plans ;)
Jenna: I would of loved to form a Playboy team with Christy and Traci
Trisha: TNA’s version of Bunnymania… I can see it now… I think… o.O
Jenna: I know it would of been great, if I could of stayed long enough to get that going
Marc: Awwh that’s a shame. It would of been nice to see a big mix up in the knockout division!
Jenna: True!
Marcella: Speaking about WWE and their Bunnymania, in your interview with the Sun, Simon Rothstein stated that you were in talks with WWE and other wrestling companies, is this true? If so, how are those talks going?
Jenna: I am always open to expanding my future in this industry and my agent and team is in talks with a few different people. But there are some things on the horizon that are presenting more interesting opportunities. I know that sounds cryptic but I am very superstitious and don’t like to jinx things!
Marc: Awh, we understand, good luck with whatever it is you do anyway! :)
Marcella: Yup, good luck! We wouldn’t want to jinx you! ;)
Jenna: Thanks…
Trisha: You’re welcome! ;) xD
Jenna: I am really excited about the future and moving forward with everything!
Marcella: You’re welcome :) We’re excited to see whatever you do in the future.
Marc: That’s great to hear!! :) Do you ever plan to return to anything like Survivor or would you even like to appear on your own reality TV show like other stars have such as Brooke Hogan and Peter Andre/Jordan in the UK?
Jenna: I’m working on my own reality show at this time, BUT I did get to be involved with an upcoming season of Survivor. But I can’t say how yet…
Trisha: Any little spoilers you wanna share? ;)
Jenna: Well the reality show would focus on Ethan and I…
Trisha: Aww! :D
Jenna: PS– I love Jordan, she’s my fav UK glamour model lol
Marcella: You will have to keep OSD updated when this reality show hits! :)
Jenna: Absolutely!
Marc: lol! How about Brooke Hogan? Are you a fan?
Jenna: You know I haven’t watched her show at all…
Trisha: We recommend you have a watch! ;)
Jenna: I will do that… Wow that we have two tivos I have space for my ever expanding TV addiction
Trisha: Yay! xD
Marc: haha, What’s your favourite shows?!
Jenna: Hmm… Friday Night Lights, CSI (the original), Intervention, Gossip Girl, Locked Up Abroad, Planet Earth and of course, Tool Academy.
Trisha: Nice choices! Being from the UK, I only know about CSI and GG, bless…
Marc: haha! That’s a lot! But it’s always fun to slob out in front of the TV every now and again and catch up with your fave shows!
Marcella: Good choices! :)
Jenna: Me = in front of the tv… OH and of course I love SURVIVOR
Marcella: Jenna, what musical artists do you like? Also, if you had to pick your own music, what song would you choose?
Jenna: I prefer hip hop and R & B
Marc: Are you liking the very STRANGE Lady GaGa?
Jenna: YES. I think she’s a true talent… and who doesn’t love a good Single Ladies dance… Where my ring at!
Marcella: We love Lady GaGa :)
Marc: Ohh, did you see Kanye West’s outburst at the VMAs? If you did, what did you think of it?
Jenna: Of course, you know how artists are though, they take everything personally…
Marc: Yeah, some of them are a bit silly
Marcella: I have to agree with Marc. ;)
So Jenna, you grew up in Pennsylvania, how are you liking New York City?
Jenna: LOVE New York City, I’m a true city girl and NYC is the best city in the world!
Marc: YAYA! Marcella’s gonna love ya! lol
Marcella: Haha. True xD How long have you lived in NYC?
Jenna: About 5 years now
Marcella: That’s awesome.
Marc: Any plans on visiting the UK? ;)
Trisha: Y’know, the London area ;)
Jenna: I was only in the UK once and it was brief… I’m hoping to go back!
Hey guys, I gotta run to another meeting, it was great chatting with you all! And I love the site!
Trisha: Thank you! :D
Jenna: I will keep updating my twitter page, etc with any fun news!
Marcella: Thanks for talking to us!
Jenna: You guys rock though!
Marc: Awwh thanks so much Jenna, we hope to hear from you soon!
Marcella: Any last words?
Jenna: Yes, thank you to all the people that supported me and have believed in me, I wouldn’t be here without my great fans… my twitter is www.twitter.com/jennamorasca … same with my Myspace (myspace.com/jennamorasca) where I post blogs frequently!
Marcella: Awwh that’s wonderful :) You are very down to earth :)
Jenna: Thanks everyone, have a great week!
OSD: It was very nice chatting with you and hope to do it another time! :)
Jenna: You too
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