Jessica Matten is more than an actress—she is a voice for Indigenous representation, a community leader, and a woman whose career spans modeling, television, film, and advocacy. With her strong screen presence and deep commitment to cultural empowerment, Matten has become a respected name in Hollywood and beyond.
Quick Bio
| Full Name | Jessica Matten |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | November 3, 1985 |
| Age (2025) | 39 Years Old |
| Birthplace | Edmonton, Alberta, Canada |
| Nationality | Canadian |
| Ethnicity | Métis / Saulteaux-Cree (maternal), British-Chinese (paternal) |
| Height | 5′ 9½″ (1.77 m) |
| Education | BSc in Human Ecology, University of Alberta |
| Profession | Actress, Model, Producer, Activist |
| Notable Roles | Frontier, Tribal, Dark Winds, Rez Ball |
| Relationship | Dating actor Brendt Thomas Diabo |
| Net Worth | Approx. USD 1.4 Million |
| Social Media | Instagram: @jessicamatten |
Early Life and Heritage
Jessica Matten was born on November 3, 1985, in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. She is now 39 years old. Her family background is both rich and diverse.
Her mother, Therese Ducharme, is of Red River Métis and Saulteaux-Cree ancestry, while her father is of British and Chinese descent. Jessica is also a direct descendant of Cuthbert Grant, a significant Métis leader in Canadian history. Growing up, she was immersed in her heritage, which shaped both her identity and her later activism.
Education and Training
Jessica Matten pursued higher education at the University of Alberta, where she earned a BSc in Human Ecology with a minor in Marketing. Alongside academics, her creative side was undeniable. She studied acting at Shoreline Studios in Vancouver and broadened her experience in fashion and modeling at Central Saint Martins and the London College of Fashion in London.
This balance of academic knowledge and creative training gave her a unique perspective—blending communication, culture, and artistry.
Family and Personal Life
Though Jessica Matten values her privacy, some details of her personal life are known. She is in a relationship with actor Brendt Thomas Diabo, who also appeared alongside her in the TV series Frontier.
She has spoken openly about how her upbringing instilled resilience and pride. Her family’s dedication to cultural traditions and storytelling has been central to her journey.
Physical Appearance
Jessica Matten striking appearance is part of her powerful on-screen presence. She stands about 5′ 9½″ (1.77 m) tall. Her commanding height, graceful features, and natural elegance make her a standout not only in acting but also in modeling and public appearances.
Early career Beginnings
Jessica Matten journey into entertainment began early. At just six years old, she was already modeling through her mother’s agency, Mystique Models. She later appeared in independent films and short projects such as A Red Girl’s Reasoning, which drew attention for its bold storytelling on Indigenous issues.
Her talent quickly caught the eye of casting directors, and larger opportunities soon followed.
Breakthrough Acting Roles
Jessica Matten gained wider recognition in the Canadian series Blackstone (2011–2015), where she played Gina. Her performance displayed depth and intensity, and the show itself highlighted the realities of Indigenous communities.
Her big breakthrough came in Frontier (2016–2018), where she starred alongside Jason Momoa as Sokanon, a strong and complex character. This role introduced her to international audiences and confirmed her ability to carry demanding parts.
Later, she appeared in Burden of Truth and took on the lead role in Tribal, not just as an actress but also as an associate producer.
Dark Winds and International Spotlight
In 2022, Jessica Matten landed one of her most acclaimed roles: Sergeant Bernadette Manuelito in AMC’s Dark Winds. The series is set on a Navajo reservation, and her portrayal of Bernadette as the only female sergeant on the force earned critical praise.
The role allowed her to showcase her acting range while representing Indigenous women in mainstream television—a responsibility she embraced with passion.
Recent and Upcoming Projects
Jessica Matten continues to make waves with new projects. In 2024, she starred in Rez Ball, a drama about a Native American high school basketball team. The film further cemented her role as a leading voice in Indigenous storytelling.
Looking ahead, Jessica Matten has been cast as the voice of Katara in the upcoming live-action adaptation of Avatar: The Last Airbender, slated for release in 2026. This project is expected to bring her even wider recognition.
Activism and Community Leadership
Beyond the screen, Jessica Matten is a tireless advocate for Indigenous rights and representation. She co-founded the Counting Coup Indigenous Film Academy (CCIFA) at Old Sun Community College, where young Indigenous students receive film and stunt training alongside wellness support.
She also co-founded 7 Forward Entertainment, an Indigenous-owned production company, to amplify stories from her community.
Her campaign #N8Vgirls raised awareness about Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW), a cause close to her heart. Her work has blended art, activism, and healing in ways few entertainers achieve.
Wellness and Healing Work
Jessica Matten has dedicated nearly 20 years to suicide prevention and addiction counseling for Indigenous youth. She views wellness as integral to creative empowerment.
At CCIFA, she integrates mental health, fitness, and cultural pride into the curriculum, ensuring that storytelling is also a pathway to healing. Parents of students have praised the academy for bringing joy and hope back into their children’s lives.
Net Worth and Earnings
Jessica’s estimated net worth is around USD 1.4 million. While this figure is based on speculation, it reflects her income from acting, producing, modeling, and endorsements.
Her financial success mirrors her steady growth in the entertainment industry, though she emphasizes purpose and impact over monetary gain.
Social Media Presence
Jessica Matten is active on Instagram (@jessicamatten), where she shares career updates, advocacy messages, and glimpses of her personal life. With more than 70,000 followers, she uses her platform to connect authentically with fans and amplify causes she believes in.
Her presence is less about glamour and more about truth—an approach that resonates with her audience.
Fun Facts
- Jessica began modeling as a child, helping her mother run a modeling agency.
- Her parents’ love story is remarkable—her father overcame a serious injury and coma, after which her mother vowed to marry him if he healed. He did, and their story became part of Jessica’s foundation of resilience.
- She balances Hollywood with her roots, spending time in her home community while also traveling globally for work.
- Jessica embraces physical fitness, martial arts, and holistic wellness as part of her lifestyle.
Conclusion
Jessica Matten is a rare combination of talent, heart, and advocacy. From Edmonton to Hollywood, she has carved out a career that shines not only for her acting ability but also for her dedication to cultural empowerment.
At 39 years old, she continues to rise, taking on new projects while staying true to her community. Whether on screen as Sergeant Bernadette Manuelito or behind the scenes at CCIFA, Jessica Matten’s story is one of resilience, leadership, and vision.
Her journey is far from complete—but the path she has created already inspires generations to come.
FAQs about Jessica Matten
1. How old is Jessica Matten?
Jessica Matten was born on November 3, 1985, which makes her 39 years old in 2025.
2. What is Jessica Matten’s height?
She stands about 5′ 9½″ (1.77 m) tall, giving her a strong presence both on-screen and in modeling.
3. What is Jessica Matten’s net worth?
Her estimated net worth is around USD 1.4 million, earned through acting, producing, modeling, and endorsements.
4. Is Jessica Matten active on social media?
Yes, she is active on Instagram (@jessicamatten), where she shares updates on her career, advocacy, and glimpses of her personal life.
5. What are Jessica Matten’s most famous roles?
She is best known for roles in Frontier, Tribal, and Dark Winds, along with her upcoming appearance in Rez Ball and Avatar: The Last Airbender.
