Vanessa Marshall

Vanessa Marshall
Spec Ops
Hera, Star Wars: Rebels


Bio

A graduate of Princeton University with a B.A. in English and a Masters in Acting from N.Y.U. Graduate Acting Program, Marshall began her voice over career launching various commercial campaigns (Propel Fitness Water and Dove). In the world of games, she played Olga in “Metal Gear Solid 2,” H.Q. in “Socom II” and Jan Ors in “Star Wars: Jedi Knights II.” Today, she is the voice of “Big Brother,” “HGTV,” and “Walgreens (legal tags).” As a stand up comic and former “plus-size” model, she also created a successful one-woman show "Got Phat?" - which ran successfully in both LA & NYC. Currently, she plays Hera on the Disney XD cartoon "Star Wars REBELS" and is honored to be a part of Special Operations for "Star Wars in the Classroom."

How I Use Star Wars in the Classroom of Life

I saw Star Wars in 1977, and my life was forever changed. I began to compare everything I read to the Star Wars narrative - anything from Shakespeare to Virgina Woolf. At Princeton, I studied Joseph Campbell's "Hero's Journey," and suddenly the power of myth inspired me to write as well. I have completed a first draft of a novel, a collection of essays, and I hope to self-publish within the next year. I currently work with "Step Up" Women's network, empowering teen girls from under-resourced communities to be confident, college-bound, and career-ready, while propelling professional women through connections, collaborations, and continuous development. I also help the 501st Legion with various charity events, some of which impact students. To celebrate May 4th, I was able to visit the Children's hospital in Los Angeles on behalf of Star Wars Rebels. In my Special Ops, I hope to help young minds discover the epic tale that is Star Wars. I strongly believe the lessons contained therein can inspire us all to make the world a better place. Lucas has done that for me, and if I can lift that up and share it with anyone, I will do so. Forever.

Additional Photos


Hera, Star Wars: Rebels
Vanessa Marshall with members of the 501st Legion
Vanessa Marshall visiting children at the LA Children's Hospital

Vanessa Marshall runs into Darth Vader while visiting children at the LA Children's Hospital
Vanessa Marshall visiting children at the LA Children's Hospital

**All information shared with permission. Ms. Marshall's participation in The Rogues does not represent an endorsement by Lucasfilm, Ltd. or The Walt Disney Company.