Jodie Turner-Smith, who spent her formative years growing up in Montgomery County, is taking on the role of Athena in the latest installment of Disney’s Tron franchise. Known for her powerful performances in films like Queen & Slim and After Yang, Turner-Smith continues to rise as one of Hollywood’s most dynamic talents.
Though born in England, Turner-Smith moved to Gaithersburg, MD in 1996 with her family. She attended Gaithersburg High School, where her charisma and drive were recognized early and her classmates voted her “Most Likely to Succeed” before she graduated with the Class of 2004.
Turner-Smith’s role in Tron: Ares marks her entry into one of Disney’s most visually ambitious franchises, which explores the boundary between the digital and real worlds. She stars alongside Jared Leto and Greta Lee in the long-awaited sequel, which is directed by Joachim Rønning. The movie is set to be released in theaters on October 10th.
Turner-Smith’s journey from Gaithersburg classrooms to major motion pictures underscores the “Most Likely to Succeed” label she earned two decades ago, and her newest role as Athena cements her place among Maryland’s growing list of Hollywood success stories.
