Morgan Jeanette Turner is an American actor known for their compelling performances in both film and television. Best recognized for their role as Martha Kaply in the Jumanji franchise, they have demonstrated a strong presence in both mainstream and independent productions.
Early Life and Background
Morgan Turner was born on April 29, 1999, in West Chester, Pennsylvania. They attended Methacton High School in Fairview Village, Pennsylvania. Coming from a creative background, they are the child of Eric Turner and actress Sandra Landers, which likely influenced their passion for performing.
Turner identifies as non-binary and pansexual, using they/them pronouns. They have openly spoken about their journey of self-discovery and personal identity, serving as an inspiration for others in the LGBTQ+ community.
Filmography
Movies
| Year | Title | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2006 | Invincible | Susan Vermeil | Feature film |
| 2009 | The Answer Man | Singing Daughter | Feature film |
| 2010 | Remember Me | Taunting Classmate | Feature film |
| 2013 | A Miracle in Spanish Harlem | Sarah | Feature film |
| 2014 | The Sisterhood of Night | Sarah | Feature film |
| 2015 | Quitters | Natalia | Feature film |
| 2017 | Wonderstruck | Janet | Feature film |
| 2017 | Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle | Martha Kaply | Feature film |
| 2019 | Jumanji: The Next Level | Martha Kaply | Feature film |
TV Shows
| Year | Title | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2008 | Inseparable | Emily Lambreaux | TV Movie |
| 2010 | Mercy | Molly Singer | Episode: “I’m Fine” |
| 2011 | Mildred Pierce | Veda Pierce | TV Mini-series |
| 2011 | Spring/Fall | Hazel | TV Movie |
| 2013 | Blue Bloods | Stacey Clarke | Episode: “The Truth About Lying” |
| 2015 | Halal in the Family | Bully | Episode: “B’ully” |
Notable Works
- Jumanji Franchise (Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle, Jumanji: The Next Level) – Turner’s portrayal of Martha Kaply played a crucial role in the films’ success. Their character, a socially awkward yet determined young woman, connected with audiences worldwide.
- Mildred Pierce (2011) – Turner played young Veda Pierce in this critically acclaimed HBO mini-series, showcasing their dramatic talent alongside Kate Winslet.
- Career Reputation
- Morgan Turner has built a solid reputation in the entertainment industry, known for their ability to bring authenticity and emotional depth to their roles. Their breakout performance as Martha Kaply in the Jumanji franchise gained them widespread recognition, allowing them to transition from independent films and smaller roles to major Hollywood productions.
- Critics and audiences alike have praised Turner for their natural acting style, particularly in their work on HBO’s Mildred Pierce, where they played the younger version of Veda Pierce. This role showcased their ability to handle complex characters and intense dramatic scenes.
- Turner has successfully balanced their career between mainstream Hollywood films and independent projects, choosing roles that allow them to express their creativity rather than just following commercial success. Their ability to play both strong-willed and vulnerable characters demonstrates their range and depth as an actor.
- Social Influence and Advocacy
- Morgan Turner is an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and representation in Hollywood. As a non-binary and pansexual actor, they use their platform to promote visibility and inclusivity in the entertainment industry. They openly discuss their journey of self-acceptance and the challenges faced by gender-nonconforming individuals in Hollywood.
- While Turner is not heavily active in mainstream social media promotion, they engage with fans through art, poetry, and personal reflections, often sharing creative insights rather than focusing solely on career updates.
- They are admired by fans and fellow actors for their genuine, down-to-earth personality and commitment to being true to themselves. Their refusal to conform to industry stereotypes has earned them respect among the LGBTQ+ community and beyond.
- Public and Media Perception
- Turner is regarded as a talented, intelligent, and thoughtful actor who carefully selects roles that challenge them artistically. Unlike many young actors, they have largely avoided the Hollywood spotlight and media controversies, maintaining a private but respected public image.
- While they may not be a household name yet, Turner’s strong performances and unique presence in films like Jumanji have helped establish them as a rising talent in Hollywood. Critics appreciate their subtle yet powerful performances, and they are often recognized for their versatility in both mainstream and indie cinema.
- Future Prospects
- As Turner continues to evolve as an actor, they may take on more diverse and challenging roles, including opportunities behind the camera in directing and writing. Given their passion for storytelling and advocacy, they could also become a prominent voice for queer representation in film and television.
- Their commitment to authenticity, creativity, and artistic growth ensures that they will remain a respected and influential figure in Hollywood for years to come.
Personal Life
Morgan Turner is known for being outspoken about self-expression and personal identity. Identifying as non-binary and pansexual, they have used their platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ visibility and acceptance.
Outside of acting, Turner is passionate about music and the arts. They often share their love for music, particularly classical and rock, and enjoy playing various instruments.
Turner has been in a relationship with Rob Dukes since November 2018. They have shared moments of their personal life on social media but generally prefer to keep their private life away from the spotlight.
Additionally, Turner enjoys reading, poetry, and exploring creative writing. Their appreciation for storytelling extends beyond acting, and they have expressed an interest in writing and directing in the future.
Conclusion
Morgan Turner’s career is a testament to their talent, versatility, and dedication to storytelling. From early appearances in films like Invincible to their standout role in the Jumanji franchise, they have consistently impressed audiences with their performances.
Beyond acting, Turner has become a voice for individuality and representation in Hollywood. Their openness about their identity and advocacy for self-expression make them an important figure in the entertainment industry.
With a bright future ahead, Morgan Turner continues to challenge expectations and explore new creative opportunities, making a lasting impact both on-screen and off.