Gloria Garcia(IX)

Gloria Garcia is a Mexican-American actor who became known as the "Jakku Defender" in Star Wars 'The Force Awakens' when she was chosen personally by J.J. Abrams for the scene. A TOPPS collectors card soon followed and a trajectory into the world of acting. She encompasses the role of a mother in the #1 Netflix Film 'Afterlife of the Party' where she plays Sofia. Garcia plays Goody's mother in 'Wednesday', Mama Elisa Reyes in 'A Cuban Girl's guide to Tea and Tomorrow' due out 2026 & Mrs. Gordon in 'The Castaways'. A real S.I.A licensed bodyguard she is trained in combats & firearms. As an ex Cook County Sheriff's Officer she was elated when chosen to play a female agent in 'Malice' due out in 2026 and she embraced her heritage in her first full Spanish speaking role as Dr. Sofia Guijarro in 'Nine Bodies in A Mexican Morgue' released in 2025. Garcia is known in the private speakers' circuit for her talks on communication tactics, risk advisory, surveillance, close ops and AI in the world of close protection. She is fluent in Spanish being Half Mexican and Half Polish. Gloria was born in Cicero,Illinois. She is involved in education for orphans in Puebla, Mexico where her origin lies. She is a graduate of The Poor School Drama School in London.