Last updated on: October 30, 2025
You remember that sensation when you find yourself with an actor who just resonates with you? An actor whose performances linger in your head for much longer than the movie credits do? That is precisely what occurred to me the initial time I came across Jessica Parker Kennedy on the screen.
She possesses that combination of charm, strength, and vulnerability which makes you immediately invested in her characters—irrespective of whether they are morally complex or not.
Throughout the years, Kennedy has appeared in pirate epics, superhero adventures, supernatural teen drama, and mythological contemporary adventures. In every case, she’s been able to contribute something fresh to the mix. And quite frankly, she’s one of those underappreciated diamonds of television who needs more love.
So let’s get into her top five TV shows. If you haven’t seen them yet, take this as your weekend binge plan.
Jessica Parker Kennedy – Rising Star of Genre TV
From Calgary to Cult Favorites
Jessica Parker Kennedy hails from Calgary, Alberta. She didn’t begin with enormous blockbuster film roles, but she quietly made her way up—guest appearances here, supporting roles there—until she hit her stride in genre and fantasy television.
Master of Fan-Favorite Genres
Consider this: superheroes, witches, pirates, and Greek mythology. Kennedy essentially boxed off all the big categories that drive fans wild on the web. And she’s done it with panache.
Why She Stands Out
What distinguishes her? Well, she possesses this ability to make even smaller roles memorable. You don’t only see her characters—you care about them.
It’s the reason why people still reminisce about her single-season stint on The Secret Circle or her guest appearance on Smallville. She maximizes every second of screen time.
Top 5 Jessica Parker Kennedy TV Shows
1. Black Sails (2014–2017)
If you only know Jessica Parker Kennedy from superhero shows, you’re in for a surprise. In Black Sails, she plays Max, a former prostitute navigating the brutal world of 18th-century Nassau.
She begins in one of the most endangered states possible, but step by agonizing step, she works her way up to become one of the most powerful people in the colony.
Kennedy portrays Max with a perfect blend of softness and toughness. Sometimes you’re cheering for her with every fiber of your being, other times you’re questioning her choices—but you can’t stop watching.
Black Sails was more than a pirate television show because of characters like Max. Kennedy made her unforgettable.
2. The Flash (2018–2023)
Switch from pirate ships to super speed. Jessica Parker Kennedy is best known to DC fans as Nora West-Allen (aka XS).
Nora is the daughter of Barry Allen and Iris West from the future. She’s quirky, lovable, sometimes reckless—but beneath it all, she’s layered with emotional complexity.
Her story isn’t just about being a superhero—it’s about family, mistakes, expectations, and forgiveness. Kennedy’s chemistry with Grant Gustin and Candice Patton made these dynamics even more powerful.
She quickly became a fan favorite in the Arrowverse, and Nora West-Allen remains one of the most sentimental characters in the show’s history.
3. Smallville (2008–2009)
Before The Flash, Kennedy appeared on another DC series—Smallville. She played Bette Sans Souci (Plastique), a teenager with explosive powers.
It wasn’t a massive role, but it was memorable. Kennedy gave Bette a mix of fear, anger, and vulnerability that made her stand out.
Looking back, it feels poetic: she began in the Superman world with a small but striking role, then returned years later to DC with a main character in The Flash.
4. The Secret Circle (2011–2012)
A one-season wonder, The Secret Circle was a supernatural CW drama about teenagers discovering they’re witches.
Kennedy played Melissa Glaser, the kind, grounded member of the coven. She wasn’t flashy or power-hungry like others—she was the glue that kept them together.
Melissa may not have had the loudest presence, but Kennedy made her authentic and relatable. Even though the show ended too soon, fans still remember her warmly.
5. Percy Jackson and the Olympians (2023–present)
Most recently, Kennedy portrayed Medusa in Disney+’s Percy Jackson and the Olympians.
Instead of making Medusa a flat villain, Kennedy brought out the tragedy and sadness behind the curse. She played her as both dangerous and deeply human.
It’s a reminder of Kennedy’s strength in fantasy roles—she gives even legendary characters a human side that resonates with viewers.
What Makes Her Roles Stand Out
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Emotional depth: She makes you care about side characters who might otherwise be overlooked.
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Range: Pirates, superheroes, witches, mythological figures—she transitions seamlessly across genres.
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Authenticity: Every role feels lived-in, whether it’s a main character or a guest spot.
Kennedy transforms what could be small roles into lasting impressions.
Where to Stream Jessica Parker Kennedy’s Best Shows
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Black Sails – Starz, Hulu
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The Flash – Netflix, The CW app
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Smallville – Hulu, digital purchase
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The Secret Circle – Amazon & iTunes (purchase)
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Percy Jackson and the Olympians – Disney+
FAQs About Jessica Parker Kennedy
What is Jessica Parker Kennedy most known for? She’s most famous for Black Sails and The Flash.
Did she actually play Medusa in Percy Jackson? Yes, and she brought unexpected depth to the role.
Has she appeared in more than one DC TV show? Absolutely—Smallville as Plastique and The Flash as Nora West-Allen.
Why do fans love her acting so much? Because she adds emotion and authenticity to every character she portrays.
Final Thoughts
If I had to put it in a nutshell, I’d say Jessica Parker Kennedy’s career proves that television magic isn’t always about big stars. Sometimes it’s about actors who quietly shape worlds, add heart to fantasy universes, and make you fall in love with characters you never expected to.
From Max’s rise in Black Sails to Nora’s emotional journey in The Flash, from witchy teen drama to mythological curses, Kennedy has built a career that feels both larger-than-life and deeply human.
So if you’re searching for your next binge-worthy series, start with these five. You’ll quickly see why Jessica Parker Kennedy deserves to be on your radar.
And here’s the ultimate lesson: she’s not simply included in the story—she creates the story.
