Jenna Dewan Recalls Janet Jackson's Inclusive Tour Environment
Hollywood actress Jenna Dewan has opened up about her early career experiences, highlighting how pop icon Janet Jackson fostered a remarkably egalitarian atmosphere among her touring team. In a recent podcast appearance, Dewan contrasted Jackson's approach with the more common hierarchical structures in the music industry.
A Lesson in Grace and Respect
Appearing on the Dinner's on Me with Jesse Tyler Ferguson podcast on March 31, the 45-year-old actress shared heartfelt memories from her time as one of Jackson's backup dancers, a role she began at just 18 years old. "Janet taught me a lot of things about just life, but also being in this business," Dewan recounted, as reported by People.com. She emphasized Jackson's personal touch, noting, "She remembers everyone's name that she's worked with. She remembers every dancer - where we're from. She knows our life."
Dewan elaborated on how Jackson's behavior stood out in an industry where dancers are often treated as secondary. "I mean, she ... brings us into her life and not many artists are like that with dancers," she explained. "You know, there is a real sometimes feeling of: you're the dancer. You're at a different hotel than we are at, or you're not as good as the singers or the backup singers ... there was like a hierarchy, but she did not have that."
Family-Like Bond on Tour
The actress described how Jackson cultivated a sense of unity and belonging among her team. "If you are on her team, you were on the tour, you were part of her family," Dewan said. She recalled specific gestures that made a difference, such as "We had spa nights. We were always at the same hotel as her." Reflecting on the significance, Dewan added, "I mean, it was just like really little things that, as you get older in this business, you start seeing, well, not everyone's that graceful."
This isn't the first time Dewan has publicly cherished her time with Jackson. In 2022, she posted a nostalgic carousel of throwback photos and videos on Instagram, showcasing her dynamic dancing skills alongside the legendary performer. The caption read: "TBT to living out one of my biggest dreams. I had one goal and one goal only when moving to LA... and that was touring with the legend herself."
A Career-Defining Experience
In her Instagram tribute, Dewan further praised Jackson's influence, writing, "I not only had one of the most incredible experiences of my life touring with Janet but she also showed me just how powerful a woman can be while still having unwavering kindness and respect for everyone around her." She concluded with, "Truly an experience of a lifetime. I love you @janetjackson!"
Dewan has consistently credited Jackson with shaping her career trajectory. During a 2017 appearance on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen, she stated, "I kind of owe everything to Janet. She was my dream job, she was my first big dance job and because of her, I met certain people who then led me to others, then led to acting then led to here." This sentiment underscores how Jackson's mentorship and inclusive environment not only provided a positive work experience but also paved the way for Dewan's subsequent success in acting.
Dewan's reflections offer a rare glimpse into the backstage dynamics of major tours, highlighting Janet Jackson's exceptional leadership and the lasting impact of treating all team members with dignity and respect.
