Jessica Gunning continues to make waves in the entertainment industry, securing yet another prestigious accolade at the 2025 Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards. On February 23, 2025, at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles, Gunning won Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series for her chilling role in Baby Reindeer. This latest honor adds to her impressive collection, which includes an Emmy, a Golden Globe, and a Critics Choice Award.
Her SAG win is particularly remarkable considering the elite competition she faced, including Kathy Bates, Cate Blanchett, Jodie Foster, Lily Gladstone, and Cristin Milioti. However, it was Gunning’s haunting performance as Martha Scott, a dangerously obsessive stalker, that captivated audiences and critics alike, cementing her status as one of television’s most compelling actresses.
From Office Desk to Award-Winning Actress: Jessica Gunning’s Journey
At 38 years old, Jessica Gunning’s rise to fame is a story of perseverance, dedication, and raw talent. Born in England, she spent years balancing an office job while chasing her acting dreams. During her emotional SAG acceptance speech, she reminisced about those early struggles:
“I used to sit at my desk and dream about this. I even made a vision board with names of actors I wanted to work with. And now, to be nominated alongside Cate Blanchett, Jodie Foster, and Kathy Bates—who were on that very board—feels surreal.”
Her vision board was not just a dream but a roadmap to success. Today, she is not just sharing the screen with Hollywood icons—she is winning against them.
Baby Reindeer: The Role That Changed Everything
Based on Richard Gadd’s real-life experience, Baby Reindeer delves into the dark world of stalking and obsession. Jessica Gunning’s portrayal of Martha Scott is unsettlingly realistic, earning widespread acclaim for its depth and intensity. Critics have described her performance as “one of the most chilling in television history.”
“I will never, ever forget being part of Baby Reindeer or playing Martha. It means so much to me,” she said in her speech.
Her ability to humanize an otherwise terrifying character made her performance unforgettable, proving that she is a force to be reckoned with in the industry.
Jessica Gunning’s Award-Winning Streak
Gunning’s SAG victory is part of an extraordinary award season, having already won:
- Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited Series
- Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Television Limited Series
- Critics Choice Award for Best Actress in a Limited Series
- Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Award for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Television Movie or Limited Series
This rare achievement puts her in the company of some of the most legendary actresses in Hollywood.
Jessica Gunning’s Net Worth in 2025
Thanks to her skyrocketing career, Jessica Gunning’s net worth is estimated to be around $5 million as of 2025. While she initially took on smaller television and theater roles, her breakthrough performance in Baby Reindeer has elevated her status in the industry.
Her growing demand in Hollywood suggests that her net worth will only increase in the coming years. With rumored upcoming projects, including a psychological thriller and a lead role in a major drama series, she is well on her way to becoming one of the highest-paid actresses in the industry.
A Fierce SAG Awards Competition
Winning the SAG Award was no easy feat, considering the powerhouse nominees in the category:
- Kathy Bates (The Great Lillian Hall)
- Cate Blanchett (Disclaimer)
- Jodie Foster (True Detective: Night Country)
- Lily Gladstone (Under the Bridge)
- Cristin Milioti (The Penguin)
The competition was fierce, but Gunning’s transformative performance ultimately secured her the victory.
What’s Next for Jessica Gunning?
With multiple major awards under her belt, the industry is buzzing with speculation about Jessica Gunning’s next big move. Rumors suggest:
- A lead role in a high-profile psychological thriller
- A starring role in a major TV drama series
- Potential opportunities in Oscar-worthy film projects
Her ability to embody deeply complex characters suggests that an Academy Award nomination might not be too far in the future.
The Legacy of Baby Reindeer and Gunning’s Impact
Beyond awards, Baby Reindeer has sparked discussions about stalking, obsession, and mental health, making it more than just a hit series—it’s a cultural phenomenon. For Jessica Gunning, this role has redefined her career, placing her among Hollywood’s elite.
Her name is now synonymous with powerhouse performances, and with her unparalleled talent and dedication, her future in the entertainment industry looks brighter than ever.