Local Actress Shines On HBO This Week Opposite Oprah Winfrey, Rose Byrne

    JACKSONVILLE, FL, April 27, 2017 /24-7PressRelease/ -- This past Sunday, April 22nd, the nation watched the true story of the HeLa Project unfold on HBO. In 'The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks', Oprah Winfrey brings to life the story of Henrietta and her family. Henrietta's cells are the origin for countless medical breakthroughs; however, her identity was secret for decades. In the film, Henrietta's daughter, played by Winfrey, forms an unlikely partnership with freelance journalist Rebecca Skloot, played by Rose Byrne. Together, they uncover the story of how project HeLa started and why the secrets were kept.

South Floridians may recognize the actress playing geneticist Dr. Susan Hsu. Jane Rumbaua, a native to Jacksonville and West Palm Beach, portrays Dr. Hsu in a role spanning several decades throughout the film. When asked what it was like to play such an important historical figure, Jane states,

"I was honored to be part of an important story that the world needed to know about. I felt responsible to bring out the truth of the character and the character's contribution to the story. Being directed by George C. Wolfe was a dream come true."

In addition to working with an incredible director and team, Jane was thrilled to be able to work alongside Oprah Winfrey and Rose Byrne. Rumbaua, who has roles in several films and television shows, was also happy to work in Atlanta with talent from across the country.

In a film about the impact of disenfranchised minorities, Jane Rumbaua also has a positive story to share. She is one of few Filipina-American actresses to break out into the national spotlight. Rumbaua hopes that more roles will become available to Asian-American actors, especially those from the Philippines. When asked about her career goals, Jane shares,

"I hope for more diversity in the casting process and wish to see more roles open to Asian Americans. I would like to continue working in TV and Film in the Southeast and do my part to showcase the excellent talent we have here in the region."

Please call Matchbook Media Group for interview requests.

For more information about Jane Rumbaua, visit www.janerumbaua.com

Matchbook Media Group and matchbook media + pr make up one of the strongest public relations firms in the Southeast focused on entertainment. Our mission is to position the region as a center for innovation in media, worldwide. MMG manages celebrity talent and develops projects for film, television, animation and new media. Their combined client roster have over two billion views online and countless media placements around the globe.

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