Jada Rowland

Born in the vibrant cultural landscape of New York City, Jada Rowland emerged as a multifaceted performer whose career spanned radio, television, and ultimately, the world of children's book illustration. Her journey through the entertainment industry is a testament to her remarkable versatility and artistic passion.

Early Life and Artistic Roots

Jada Rowland was born on February 23, 1943, on Staten Island, New York City, into a family deeply rooted in artistic expression. With a painter/illustrator grandfather and artist/writer parents, creativity was woven into the fabric of her early life. From the moment she could hold a pencil, Rowland was drawing and writing, foreshadowing the diverse artistic career that would unfold.

The Rise of a Young Performer

Rowland's professional journey began in the world of theater and radio. She started appearing in children's theater plays with the King & Co. in 1946, and by 1949, at the tender age of six, she made her screen debut in the film That Lady, playing a child version of Anichu. Throughout the 1950s, she continued to build her reputation, taking on juvenile roles in various television productions like The Second Mrs. Burton and Road of Life.

Television and Soap Opera Stardom

Her most notable television work came through soap operas, where she became a familiar face to daytime television audiences. Jada Rowland had a particularly remarkable run on The Secret Storm, where she portrayed Amy Ames Britton Kincaid from 1954 to 1974. What made this role unique was that her character aged in real-time, a rarity in the soap opera world. Rowland's television career continued to flourish with roles on other prominent soap operas. She played Dr. Susan Stewart on As the World Turns and Nurse Carolee Simpson Aldrich on The Doctors. She even made an appearance on the prime-time serial The Hamptons in 1983.

Radio Mystery Theater and Artistic Versatility

Beyond television, Rowland was a prominent voice in radio drama. She was a frequent performer on the CBS Radio Mystery Theater, appearing in an impressive 52 episodes between 1974 and 1981. Her radio performances showcased her vocal range and dramatic skills, with episodes like "Speak of the Devil," "The House of the Seven Gables," and "Guardian Angel".

Transition to Illustration and Later Life

In 1983, Rowland made a significant career shift. She retired from acting and relocated to Denmark with her husband, focusing on her passion for illustration. She began illustrating children's books, publishing works such as Bringing the Farmhouse Home, Miss Tizzy, The Statue of Liberty, and Raising the Roof.

Legacy and Impact

Jada Rowland's career is a remarkable narrative of artistic evolution. From a child actress to a soap opera staple, a radio drama performer, and finally a children's book illustrator, she demonstrated an extraordinary ability to reinvent herself while maintaining a deep commitment to storytelling and creativity.

Works and Appearances

Radio

• CBS Radio Mystery Theater: 52 episodes (1974-1981)
• Lux Radio Theater: Episode "Sing You Sinners" (1940)

Television

• The Secret Storm: Amy Ames Britton Kincaid (1954-1974)
• As the World Turns: Dr. Susan Stewart (1967-1968, 1986)
• The Doctors: Nurse Carolee Simpson Aldrich (1976-1982)
• Sesame Street: Jennie/Janine (1969-1979)
• The Hamptons: Penny Drake (1983)

Illustration

• Bringing the Farmhouse Home (1992)
• Miss Tizzy (1993)
• The Statue of Liberty (1995)
• Raising the Roof (1995)