Queen of the screen
Best known for her regular slot as the cheeky presenter on RTÉ’s Republic of Telly, she has also appeared on The Apprentice and Fáilte Towers, and on radio.
When not in front of a camera or microphone, she runs a makeover and photographic studio in St Fredrick Street, Dublin, with a staff of 12 people.
“I love it and I feel very comfortable doing it,” she says. “But it can get a bit much, sometimes. The acting and comedy work is just a bit of fun, really. There are very few jobs out there — so that’s why presenters have to multi-task — either doing radio, writing columns, doing this or that to make a living,” says Jennifer, who lives in Dublin with British actor, Lau Zamparelli, her boyfriend of seven years.
What shape are you in?
Not great, but not too bad. I eat quite healthily and I exercise about three times a week. I am training for the Flora Mini Marathon in June.
Do you have any health concerns?
I had cervical pre-cancer cells about five years ago. I need to keep an eye on that. I am very good at keeping up with cervical smears and keeping an eye on myself.
What are your healthiest eating habits?
I would never leave the house without breakfast — porridge, poached eggs or cereal. I also plan what I will eat throughout the week. If you are going to eat healthily, you have to think about it, especially when you are on-the-go and busy.
What’s your guiltiest pleasure?
Wine — red, white. sparkling — I find it very hard to say no to a glass of wine. I wouldn’t go through a whole bottle. I just like to have a glass of wine with my dinner. I’m very lucky, my partner isn’t a big drinker, so that levels me out.
What would keep you awake at night?
The stress of work. Running a business always has its ups and downs. I try and write everything down. But there is always stuff you forget — especially if I’m filming for TV, as well.
How do you relax?
Go for a run. I am also getting good at treating myself to a massage or facial every four weeks — it was my new year’s resolution to treat myself.
Who would you invite to your dream dinner party?
Will Ferrell, Stevie Wonder, Kevin Spacey and Michael D Higgins — he’s a great storyteller.
What’s your favourite smell?
A turf fire — I love going into the Merrion Hotel, in Dublin, with the turf fire in their tea room. It also reminds me of my summer holidays in a cottage in Connemara.
What would you change about your appearance?
Have you enough space? I would probably like to have tanned skin. I love the sun, but it doesn’t love me. Sometimes, it looks that I’ve been dug up, I am so pale. Maybe bigger boobs and longer legs, too.
When did you last cry?
I am not a big cry person. I can’t actually remember the last time I cried, though I did shed a tear at the People of the Year Awards last year.
What trait do you least like in others?
Racism, ignorance. I hate when people judge others by their status or job. In the industry I’m in, you sometimes see people being rude to those who are of less importance.
What trait do you least like in yourself?
I’m impulsive. Sometimes, I would say yes to stuff without thinking things through. And I am very impatient. If I could sort those two things out, it would certainly help me be a better business person — and definitely a better girlfriend. It probably comes down to me wanting to be a people pleaser all the time.
Do you pray?
Not enough. I mostly say a prayer of thanks.
What would cheer up your day?
Having some time off, spending time with friends and family. Having a laugh. Spending time with my dog, Sparky, the biggest Yorkshire terrier you’ve ever seen.
