Jill Wagner has built a successful career in the entertainment industry over several decades, starring in Taylor Sheridan’s popular series, Lioness. Despite moving to California to pursue acting, Wagner returned to her country roots, now residing on a Tennessee farm with her husband and two daughters.
Wagner’s Role in Lioness
In Sheridan’s hit show, Wagner plays Bobby, the skilled leader of the Lioness program’s Quick Reaction Force (QRF). Wagner pitched this idea to Sheridan, who created the role specifically for her; she also serves as an executive producer. Wagner emphasized the importance of portraying women in military roles accurately, steering away from stereotypes.
“Taylor writes in such an honest and raw way. I didn’t want this show to become Barbies with guns. I wanted it to represent the women I knew and respected in the military, and he’s done that brilliantly.” – Jill Wagner
To embody Bobby’s character authentically, Wagner consulted with real-life military women, integrating their personalities into her portrayal.
A Connection Rooted in the Past
Wagner met her husband, David Lemanowicz, during her teenage years and reconnected with him in Afghanistan while he served in the Air Force and she was on a USO tour. Initially, despite recognizing each other, they didn’t pursue their connection further as they were both involved with others. A year later, they met again in Los Angeles and discovered they were single.
They married in 2017, and Wagner reflected on how they found each other again, sharing an anecdote from a chance encounter at a Los Angeles restaurant.
David Lemanowicz’s Military Background
Wagner’s husband transitioned from a professional hockey career to serve in the military, joining the U.S. Army Reserve as a lieutenant and later being promoted to major. He introduced Wagner to the Lioness program, sparking her interest in bringing the story to the screen.
A Family Tradition of Military Service
Coming from a military family, Wagner was drawn to roles that reflect her upbringing. Her grandfather, uncle, and father were all Marines, while Lemanowicz serves in the Army. Wagner found participating in Lioness compelling due to the opportunity to portray women in leading military roles.
“I have not seen women in the military portrayed in lead roles like this. It is important to give these women the moment they deserve on screen while not taking any away from the men who also serve.” – Jill Wagner
Farm Life and Family
After moving from Los Angeles in 2016, Wagner and Lemanowicz settled on a farmhouse in Tennessee, envisioning a family life away from the city. Wagner was captivated by the property’s potential, despite its initial appearance.
Today, they share this home with their two daughters, Army Gray and Daisy Roberta. Wagner described her typical day as filled with farm maintenance, including addressing issues like a broken tractor or a damaged fence.
Lioness Continues to Captivate Viewers
The third season of Lioness premiered earlier this month, with episodes released every Sunday on Paramount+.
Through her performances and personal life, Jill Wagner continues to engage audiences, combining her country roots, respect for the military, and passion for storytelling in her work.