Simone Kessell

Simone Kessell (born 19 August 1975) is a New Zealand television actress known for her role as Lt. Alicia Washington in the short-lived Fox science fiction television series Terra Nova. In 2016, Kessell starred opposite Ray Winstone on the short-lived ABC prime-time television fantasy soap opera Of Kings and Prophets. As of 2023 she co-stars on the Showtime series Yellowjackets.

Career

Her early work included appearances in New Zealand and Australian productions like Hercules: The Legendary Journeys, Xena: Warrior Princess, Water Rats, and Medivac, where she played Dr. Stella O'Shaughnessy. She also appeared in TV films such as McLeod's Daughters and Return to Treasure Island.

Then, she expanded her career with roles in American series such as CSI: Miami, Criminal Minds, and Fringe. In 2011, she portrayed Lieutenant Alicia Washington in the sci-fi series Terra Nova.

More recently, Kessell played Breha Organa in the Obi-Wan Kenobi miniseries, and Mother Teach in Our Flag Means Death. Since 2023, she has been part of the main cast in Yellowjackets, portraying the adult version of Lottie Matthews.

Personal life

Kessell was born in Auckland to a Māori mother, of Ngāti Tūwharetoa and Ngāi Te Rangi descent, and a Pākehā father of European descent. She is married to Australian director Gregor Jordan. They have two sons, Jack and Beau.

Simone Kessell is also a pickleball player. In 2024, she secured a gold medal in the women's singles (35 age 4.0) and a silver in women's doubles at the Australian Pickleball Championships. She serves as an ambassador for JOOLA Australia and captains the Brisbane Breakers in Major League Pickleball Australia.