Daya Vaidya Talks Bosch and the Evolution of Jen Kowski [Exclusive Interview]

Daya Vaidya quickly became a fan favorite when she joined the cast of Bosch in Season 2. Now, several seasons later, we’ve gotten to know her character, Jen Kowski, even better.

I had the chance to ask Vaidya a few questions about her role on Bosch and the political aspect of the show.

Tell-Tale TV: Just to begin, tell us a little bit about what it’s like working on Bosch. What would you say is the best thing about being part of this show?

Daya Vaidya: Bosch is one of the best shows I’ve ever worked on, hands down. The cast is stellar. Titus Welliver and the producers set a tone on set that makes you feel comfortable to play and take risks. Also, I love working with Lance Reddick. He’s awesome and always shows up to set bringing the heat!

Tell-Tale TV: How would you say your character, Jen, has evolved since we first met her in Season 2?

Vaidya: Jen’s main goal is to WIN. Everything she does is motivated from that place. The difference now, is that she’s running the show. She doesn’t have to be under Mayor Ramos anymore.

Chief Irving has hired her to run his campaign and she will do whatever it takes to make him Mayor of Los Angeles. Even if he tries to pull out… which I don’t think she will take too kindly to.

Tell-Tale TV: As an actress, is there anything additional you’ve been able to bring to this character that wasn’t in the script?

Vaidya: I think I often bring a subtle street edge to my characters. It doesn’t mean I’m not educated, but I grew up in Oakland, CA and went to pretty rough schools, so that upbringing often seeps into the strong female characters I play. If you know to navigate an environment where getting shot is a daily threat, then it’s a cinch to navigate politics.

Tell-Tale TV: What would you say is your favorite thing about Jen?

Vaidya: Her hustle mentality and the way she’s able to be warm and friendly in one second and cunning and ruthless in the next. I like her unpredictability.

Tell-Tale TV: What have been some of the biggest challenges for you in playing this role?

Vaidya: I’m not as strategic as Jen and I’m an extremely ethical and moral person. I found it challenging to get into the skin of a woman who truly doesn’t give an F and will do whatever she needs to do to win, even if that means getting dirty. I like trying to figure out how someone makes moves like that; what really compels and motivates them.

Tell-Tale TV: Can you talk a bit about the political aspect of this show? The changing landscape is fascinating, and this show has such a realistic view. What’s that been like to play?

Vaidya: Well, I’m obsessed with politics in real life, so bringing that to the show is super fun to play with. I will literally watch press conferences and watch how the political advisors behave and function. I love researching roles; even if I’m in only one scene that episode, I like to prepare by watching local and national news and just getting into that headspace.

Bosch is a show that strives for realism and authenticity, so the more I can absorb the actual political drama happening in LA and our country, the more I can embody the world of Bosch.

Tell-Tale TV: What about your character’s relationship with Irving? Can you discuss their dynamic a bit?

Vaidya: My relationship with Irving has definitely evolved since Season 2. It started with us more as advisories, where I was trying to manipulate him to an extent to get what I wanted for Mayor Ramos.

However, I began recognizing that Irving is the key to power and I must be on his team. Once I switched to running his campaign, I became his partner and greatest cheerleader. He knows it’s all about winning for me, but he doesn’t mind that because that’s what he needs from me as well. Mutually beneficial relationship.

Tell-Tale TV: In addition to Bosch, you also recently produced the indie film The Locksmith, starring your husband. What can you tell us about that project?

Vaidya: It’s a gritty, indie horror movie that takes place in the backwoods of Georgia. Don and I produce, along with Ryan and Jamie Miningham, who are our producing partners. We are in post-production.

Tell-Tale TV: I know you support organizations that champion diversity in Hollywood and women’s rights. What are they?

Vaidya: I am a member and donate to the ACLA and am a veteran member of TNH (The New Hollywood — a charitable and goal setting group for artists and change-makers in our country).

Tell-Tale TV: Finally, is there anything you think fans might be surprised to learn about you?

Vaidya: I’m an avid boogie boarder who loves the ocean and I write poetry in my rare free moments.

—

Bosch is currently streaming on Amazon Prime Video. 

 Follow us on Twitter and on Instagram!

Want more from Tell-Tale TV? Subscribe to our newsletter here!