Inside the Gates: Jen Jacob Gets Real About Ashley’s Twists and Turns

If you’re not watching Beyond the Gates yet, we’ve got questions. And if you are watching, then buckle up, because we just had an exclusive interview with Jen Jacob, who plays the ever-complicated, always-entertaining Ashley. She spilled everything from her lack of soap opera knowledge before landing the role to her take on love triangles, evil twins, and fake pregnancies. Yes, it’s that kind of show and we’re so here for it.

So whether you're a loyal BTG fan or just soap-curious, grab your drink of choice and dive in. We’re breaking down the best moments from Jen’s chat with the Soap Wire Podcast and giving you a front-row seat to the drama behind the drama.

Meet Jen Jacob: The Face Behind Ashley

Jen Jacob is no stranger to screen time, but Beyond the Gates marked her first foray into the wonderfully chaotic world of soap operas. And get this — she didn’t grow up watching soaps. Shocking, right? While the rest of us were glued to the TV with our grandmas watching Victor Newman and the latest love triangle unravel, Jen was blissfully unaware of just how messy daytime TV could get.

But don’t worry — she caught on quickly. Jen told us she never imagined spending this much time with one character, calling it the most immersive role of her career. And honestly, we love that for her.

Ashley’s Love Life: Good Guy or Forbidden Fruit?

Now let’s get to the juicy part. Ashley’s love life. If you’ve been following along, you know there’s major tension between her long-time sweetheart Derek and bad boy Andre. Naturally, we had to ask Jen the million-dollar question: who should Ashley end up with?

Her answer? Complicated. (Just like Ashley.)

Jen sees Derek as the “good on paper” guy — the dependable one your mom would approve of. But Andre? He’s got that forbidden fruit energy, and Ashley might just be too insecure to really go for him. Jen hinted that neither guy is really right for Ashley at this point and we have to agree. Maybe Ashley needs to take a break from romance and just hang out with her dog.

Or join a book club. Anything less dramatic.

Is Hayley Faking It? Yes We Asked That Too

No soap would be complete without a fake pregnancy plotline and Beyond the Gates delivers. When asked about Ashley’s suspicions around Hayley's conveniently timed baby announcement, Jen didn’t hold back.

As Jen — not Ashley — she’s here for the drama. She wants that fake baby storyline. She lives for the chaos. But Ashley, the ever-hopeful nurse with a moral compass that somehow still works, would prefer honesty and good behavior. Poor thing. She’s clearly in the wrong genre.

And yes, Jen’s dog Graham made a cameo during the podcast. Injured, sedated, and cuddly. We would die for him.

Comedy in a Soap? Yes Please

One of the things that sets Beyond the Gates apart from your typical soap is its offbeat sense of humor. Jen praised the writers for letting her bring a little quirky chaos to Ashley’s character — think Zooey Deschanel meets vintage Barbra Streisand. And you know what? It works.

From dramatic diner meltdowns to intense fridge arguments (you had to be there), Ashley’s scenes keep viewers entertained even when the drama gets dark. The comedy adds a fresh twist that makes BTG stand out in a sea of melodrama.

The Verdict: Jen Jacob Gets It

What makes Jen Jacob such a compelling part of Beyond the Gates is that she gets it. She understands the wild, over-the-top nature of soaps and she leans in. Whether Ashley’s dealing with an emotional breakup or suspicious baby drama, Jen brings heart, humor, and a little bit of snark to the role.

And while fans might not always agree with Ashley’s choices (seriously, girl, why did you let him move in?), they can’t deny she keeps things interesting.

Team Jen, Always

Our exclusive interview with Jen Jacob proves one thing — she’s as sharp, self-aware, and charming as they come. Whether you’re rooting for Ashley to find true love, uncover a lie, or just finally take a nap, one thing’s for sure. Jen is having a blast playing her and we’re having just as much fun watching.

So if you’re not already watching Beyond the Gates, what are you doing? It’s messy, it’s dramatic, it’s unexpectedly hilarious, and Jen Jacob is at the center of it all. Tune in, catch up, and come back here for all the behind-the-scenes tea.

Have thoughts on Ashley’s next move? Drop them in the comments or @SoapWire— we’re dying to hear your takes.