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Plain Jayne: A Memoir
From award-winning actress and sports broadcaster Jayne Kennedy comes a compelling, inspirational, and unflinchingly honest memoir about her rise in Hollywood and beyond.
Jayne Kennedy is one of the most photographed, glamorous, and intriguing women ever to set foot in Hollywood. Perhaps best known for her groundbreaking work in 1978–1980 on the Emmy Award–winning CBS program The NFL Today, she's an icon and trailblazer in every sense of the word. From becoming the first Black woman to win Miss Ohio USA, to being the only woman to host the long-running syndicated television show Greatest Sports Legends, and pioneering the fitness industry with her bestselling Love Your Body exercise videos and fitness programs, nobody has had a career trajectory quite like Jayne. And she has never gone on the record about her personal experiences and the resulting joys and scars—until now.
Her candid and conversational storytelling will endear her once again to her existing fans as well as open her up to a new audience that will admire her message of resilience and empowerment. Jayne has long been a beacon of Black and female excellence and has opened doors for female talent and media executives. Inducted into the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture in their Television and the Media Landscape exhibit, Jayne is indeed a pioneer. Tracing her upbringing in Ohio and her journey shattering glass ceilings in American contemporary culture, Plain Jayne is a breathtaking story of endurance, survival, and achievement.
Jayne Kennedy is one of the most photographed, glamorous, and intriguing women ever to set foot in Hollywood. Perhaps best known for her groundbreaking work in 1978–1980 on the Emmy Award–winning CBS program The NFL Today, she's an icon and trailblazer in every sense of the word. From becoming the first Black woman to win Miss Ohio USA, to being the only woman to host the long-running syndicated television show Greatest Sports Legends, and pioneering the fitness industry with her bestselling Love Your Body exercise videos and fitness programs, nobody has had a career trajectory quite like Jayne. And she has never gone on the record about her personal experiences and the resulting joys and scars—until now.
Her candid and conversational storytelling will endear her once again to her existing fans as well as open her up to a new audience that will admire her message of resilience and empowerment. Jayne has long been a beacon of Black and female excellence and has opened doors for female talent and media executives. Inducted into the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture in their Television and the Media Landscape exhibit, Jayne is indeed a pioneer. Tracing her upbringing in Ohio and her journey shattering glass ceilings in American contemporary culture, Plain Jayne is a breathtaking story of endurance, survival, and achievement.
462 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 2, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
June 27, 2025
Jayne Kennedy is sort of an icon for football fans, especially those that remember her time on NFL Today. Black folk were so mesmerized and indeed proud to see her holding her own. Besides being good to look like, she was knowledgeable about football and didn’t come off as some bimbo beauty.
Surprisingly, she states she never viewed herself as beautiful, and accepted being stared at early in her life, often due to her being the tallest person in her classes and mostly any room she entered. I didn’t know, that she was Miss Ohio back in the day. I didn’t know about her struggle to break through in Hollywood.
She tells her story honestly and in fascinating detail. Naming names along the way. She describes the breakdown of her marriage to Leon Isaac Kennedy and the aftermath of the infamous “intimate encounter” tape that effectively pushed her into the darkness for a number of years. She acknowledges that her disappearance was mainly due to her own shame and she didn’t want to face the world.
So, I feel like she really came to this memoir to air it all out and her journey is an amazing one filled with resilience, heartbreak and joy. A great read that may once again put her in the national spotlight. Just think had she come along 20 years later. Her sex tape would have made her a global superstar!
However, she doesn’t express any regrets and seems to be living her best life right now. Thank you Jayne Kennedy for sharing your story. And special thanks to Netgalley and Andscape books for an advanced DRC. Book drops in September 2025.
Surprisingly, she states she never viewed herself as beautiful, and accepted being stared at early in her life, often due to her being the tallest person in her classes and mostly any room she entered. I didn’t know, that she was Miss Ohio back in the day. I didn’t know about her struggle to break through in Hollywood.
She tells her story honestly and in fascinating detail. Naming names along the way. She describes the breakdown of her marriage to Leon Isaac Kennedy and the aftermath of the infamous “intimate encounter” tape that effectively pushed her into the darkness for a number of years. She acknowledges that her disappearance was mainly due to her own shame and she didn’t want to face the world.
So, I feel like she really came to this memoir to air it all out and her journey is an amazing one filled with resilience, heartbreak and joy. A great read that may once again put her in the national spotlight. Just think had she come along 20 years later. Her sex tape would have made her a global superstar!
However, she doesn’t express any regrets and seems to be living her best life right now. Thank you Jayne Kennedy for sharing your story. And special thanks to Netgalley and Andscape books for an advanced DRC. Book drops in September 2025.
October 17, 2025
ARC REVIEW ~ WOW! What an amazing journey I just completed with Jayne Kennedy! Phenomenal memoir. This is not just the story of Jayne’s life, this is B͟l͟a͟c͟k͟ ͟h͟i͟s͟t͟o͟r͟y. Jayne leaves nothing out. She is unequivocally transparent It’s a book every Black woman should read.
This memoir was over 20 years in the making. It’s very obvious this is not a book Jayne put together for a money grab. This memoir was written with passion and a desire to be seen and understood. I felt the emotion within each story. It’s a memoir that was written straight from the heart.
I love that Jayne goes far beyond the surface. She invites us into every chapter of her life, from why she changed the spelling of her name from Jane to Jayne, to sharing stories of her childhood, marriages, friendships, and motherhood. She speaks candidly about her triumphs and setbacks, breaking barriers as the first Black woman to make her mark in sports journalism. Jayne reflects on identity, purpose, aging, politics, discrimination, and the many layers of womanhood and entertainment.
I am so thankful Jayne was able to tell her own story. Her thoughts and experiences are far too impactful to have been delivered to us in a biography, a story written by someone else. Jayne Kennedy is a living legend and it is a blessing to read her story while she is still here.
There are so many compelling stories in this memoir. She even talks about the first time she heard Mos Def mention her name in his song “Ms. Fat Booty”. And for the record, she was thrilled. Hearing her name motivated her to get back to being the woman she used to be. She even thanks Mos for the shoutout.
Fun Fact. Did you know the role of Claire Huxtable was supposed to be played by Jayne Kennedy? Jayne worked many hours with Bill Cosby on developing the character. But Bill cut her out of the production once taping began. He never informed Jayne that she was replaced. Jayne found out the role had been given to Phylicia Rashad once the show aired on tv.
There are so many great things I can say about this book. But simply put, it is a beautifully structured, solid body of work. It’s Jayne in her entirety.
I only have 3 parting words…
READ THE BOOK
Thank you Andscape Books for gifting me an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This memoir was over 20 years in the making. It’s very obvious this is not a book Jayne put together for a money grab. This memoir was written with passion and a desire to be seen and understood. I felt the emotion within each story. It’s a memoir that was written straight from the heart.
I love that Jayne goes far beyond the surface. She invites us into every chapter of her life, from why she changed the spelling of her name from Jane to Jayne, to sharing stories of her childhood, marriages, friendships, and motherhood. She speaks candidly about her triumphs and setbacks, breaking barriers as the first Black woman to make her mark in sports journalism. Jayne reflects on identity, purpose, aging, politics, discrimination, and the many layers of womanhood and entertainment.
I am so thankful Jayne was able to tell her own story. Her thoughts and experiences are far too impactful to have been delivered to us in a biography, a story written by someone else. Jayne Kennedy is a living legend and it is a blessing to read her story while she is still here.
There are so many compelling stories in this memoir. She even talks about the first time she heard Mos Def mention her name in his song “Ms. Fat Booty”. And for the record, she was thrilled. Hearing her name motivated her to get back to being the woman she used to be. She even thanks Mos for the shoutout.
Fun Fact. Did you know the role of Claire Huxtable was supposed to be played by Jayne Kennedy? Jayne worked many hours with Bill Cosby on developing the character. But Bill cut her out of the production once taping began. He never informed Jayne that she was replaced. Jayne found out the role had been given to Phylicia Rashad once the show aired on tv.
There are so many great things I can say about this book. But simply put, it is a beautifully structured, solid body of work. It’s Jayne in her entirety.
I only have 3 parting words…
READ THE BOOK
Thank you Andscape Books for gifting me an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 21, 2026
I enjoyed reading this memoir and taking a peek at the behind the scene deals and broken promises. Jayne doesn't hold back. She talks about her failed 1st marriage, career disappointments, health issues, leaked sex tape and being an overcomer. Her delivery is matter of fact and some events are non linear. An interesting memoir.
July 24, 2025
What a good read! Jayne is very open about a lot of what has gone on in her storied life. She achieved a lot of firsts. She was the first Black woman to win Miss Ohio and likely the second Black woman to win a state level beauty contest. She was one of the first women and definitely the first Black woman to co-host a dedicated network sports show. And she was one of the first people to create an exercise video, that was a national success.
Jayne was and is very intelligent and ambitious, which has served her well, although, considering her beauty and many talents, should’ve provided her with even more opportunities than she has received. For more than a few years, she represented the ultimate beauty in the Black community. I can remember being enamored with her back in the day. Her combination of great looks, intelligence, and down to earth personality made her truly one of a kind.
I really appreciate how much she discussed her family, particularly her father and mother, as well as her daughters, throughout the book. It’s heartwarming how much she praises them, along with her siblings, husband, and other family members.
One of my favorite parts of the book is the wonderful tribute she gave to all of the wonderful black actresses, past and present. It prompted me to research them individually to learn more about their respective careers.
I love how she describes helping her daughters navigate their college education and overall development as young women. Although her path didn’t necessarily allow her to pursue a college degree, she no doubt would’ve achieved a high level of education, considering how much she’d accomplished academically prior to her meteoric rise in show business.
I thoroughly enjoyed learning about the intimate details of Jayne’s life, as well as how influential she has been both culturally and professionally.
Jayne was and is very intelligent and ambitious, which has served her well, although, considering her beauty and many talents, should’ve provided her with even more opportunities than she has received. For more than a few years, she represented the ultimate beauty in the Black community. I can remember being enamored with her back in the day. Her combination of great looks, intelligence, and down to earth personality made her truly one of a kind.
I really appreciate how much she discussed her family, particularly her father and mother, as well as her daughters, throughout the book. It’s heartwarming how much she praises them, along with her siblings, husband, and other family members.
One of my favorite parts of the book is the wonderful tribute she gave to all of the wonderful black actresses, past and present. It prompted me to research them individually to learn more about their respective careers.
I love how she describes helping her daughters navigate their college education and overall development as young women. Although her path didn’t necessarily allow her to pursue a college degree, she no doubt would’ve achieved a high level of education, considering how much she’d accomplished academically prior to her meteoric rise in show business.
I thoroughly enjoyed learning about the intimate details of Jayne’s life, as well as how influential she has been both culturally and professionally.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 20, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley and Hyperion Avenue/Andscape Books for the digital copy of this book; I am leaving this review voluntarily.
When you grow up in an NFL city, there’s a pretty good chance you’ve watched the pre-game shows, too. I was very young when Jayne Kennedy appeared on CBS’ NFL Today, but I remember her beautiful long hair, a great voice, and her knowledge about the game. For millions of African Americans, she was something more. She cracked that glass ceiling for all women when she appeared on network television. The thing is, I didn’t know how much more Jayne has accomplished in her long life. I’m glad I got a chance to get caught up.
Jayne’s launch into pop culture began when she was the first Black woman to be crowned Miss Ohio and landed in the Top 10 of the Miss America contest. When she first appeared on The NFL Today, misogynistic men complained about a bimbo on the screen, despite the fact that Jayne was well-versed in football and added a lot to the typical boys club of network pre-game shows. She was let go after three years, and moved on to other endeavors.
She hosted the 1982 Rose Bowl and won an Emmy for her work. She released a popular exercise video when they were all the rage. She’s won many awards for her barrier-breaking career in Hollywood. Her memoir is a story of Black and female empowerment and her resilience in an industry where people are not allowed to age gracefully.
This was one of the better celebrity memoirs I have read in a long time!
When you grow up in an NFL city, there’s a pretty good chance you’ve watched the pre-game shows, too. I was very young when Jayne Kennedy appeared on CBS’ NFL Today, but I remember her beautiful long hair, a great voice, and her knowledge about the game. For millions of African Americans, she was something more. She cracked that glass ceiling for all women when she appeared on network television. The thing is, I didn’t know how much more Jayne has accomplished in her long life. I’m glad I got a chance to get caught up.
Jayne’s launch into pop culture began when she was the first Black woman to be crowned Miss Ohio and landed in the Top 10 of the Miss America contest. When she first appeared on The NFL Today, misogynistic men complained about a bimbo on the screen, despite the fact that Jayne was well-versed in football and added a lot to the typical boys club of network pre-game shows. She was let go after three years, and moved on to other endeavors.
She hosted the 1982 Rose Bowl and won an Emmy for her work. She released a popular exercise video when they were all the rage. She’s won many awards for her barrier-breaking career in Hollywood. Her memoir is a story of Black and female empowerment and her resilience in an industry where people are not allowed to age gracefully.
This was one of the better celebrity memoirs I have read in a long time!
August 9, 2025
great memoir! it tells Kennedy's story really well and the plotting is awesome. would recommend. 5 stars. tysm for the arc.
December 15, 2025
“We all know that celebrities are human too, but we forget. We have no idea what is going on in their personal lives when they show up on the TV… It’s one of the reasons I try to stay away from the hype of Hollywood life…the facade is not the whole story.”
This was a very interesting look into Jayne’s fascinating life and the paths she took as a woman trailblazer. She is stunning, that is very evident. Some of the pictures in the book showing Jayne throughout the years are exquisite.
But this book is long, at times a bit disjointed, and probably in need of a bit more editing. I did not know who she was prior so I enjoyed reading about how she paved the way for women on TV, particularly in men’s sports broadcasting (NFL Today). And a sex tape?! I thought Pamela Anderson and Tommy Lee were the first ones to be the victim of that. A wild life indeed!
Thank you to @tlcbooktours and @andscape for the book in exchange for my honest thoughts.
This was a very interesting look into Jayne’s fascinating life and the paths she took as a woman trailblazer. She is stunning, that is very evident. Some of the pictures in the book showing Jayne throughout the years are exquisite.
But this book is long, at times a bit disjointed, and probably in need of a bit more editing. I did not know who she was prior so I enjoyed reading about how she paved the way for women on TV, particularly in men’s sports broadcasting (NFL Today). And a sex tape?! I thought Pamela Anderson and Tommy Lee were the first ones to be the victim of that. A wild life indeed!
Thank you to @tlcbooktours and @andscape for the book in exchange for my honest thoughts.
June 10, 2026
I really enjoyed learning about the life of Jayne Kennedy. To me, she will never be plain. The book opened with that life changing phone call regarding the unauthorized release of her sex tape with then husband, Leon. She then takes us on a journey from her roots to show us the real Jayne and where she came from. She was loved as a child and as a woman. She grew up in a loving two parent household with sisters and brother. Extended family members were by the dozens. She endured racism through out her education, pageantry days, and in her professional career. Jayne survived. I was very touched by her sharing how she lost herself, her “looks,” and dignity following the release of that tape. She threw herself into motherhood to survive.
The most compelling part of this memoir to me was learning about her first marriage. After facing adversity and achieving success in Hollywood, he pulls the rug from under her. Leon has frequent extramarital relationships in front of her and all of Hollywood. Then has the gall to ask for a second wife to be included in their lives and home. Jayne tried to save this marriage. He demanded more- give up your career, give me a child, and let my girlfriend move in. Just wow! 😲 She sacrifice so much, including starting a family. Somehow, she managed to reconstruct a friendship with Leon after many years and after marrying Bill Overton. Then the tape is stolen! The remaining chapters explore her life after the tape and how it affected her.
Overall, I learned a lot of new information about black Hollywood and about Jayne Kennedy. This was a slow paced read for me. She does share her many famous friends and encounters as well as those who impacted her career.
At one time, I think she did live a charmed life- and good for her!
The most compelling part of this memoir to me was learning about her first marriage. After facing adversity and achieving success in Hollywood, he pulls the rug from under her. Leon has frequent extramarital relationships in front of her and all of Hollywood. Then has the gall to ask for a second wife to be included in their lives and home. Jayne tried to save this marriage. He demanded more- give up your career, give me a child, and let my girlfriend move in. Just wow! 😲 She sacrifice so much, including starting a family. Somehow, she managed to reconstruct a friendship with Leon after many years and after marrying Bill Overton. Then the tape is stolen! The remaining chapters explore her life after the tape and how it affected her.
Overall, I learned a lot of new information about black Hollywood and about Jayne Kennedy. This was a slow paced read for me. She does share her many famous friends and encounters as well as those who impacted her career.
At one time, I think she did live a charmed life- and good for her!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 7, 2025
This is a fairly long audiobook but fascinating account of Jayne Kennedy's glamourous life read by the author. You can really appreciate the time and effort she put into sharing her family background and the emotions in her voice as she divulged many aspects of her professional life. It was a revelation to hear that her paternal grandfather was Irish but she firmly holds to her identity as a Black American woman.
This in no way appears to be a ghost writer assisted memoir and one can clearly hear the subject's own voice literally and figuratively throughout the entire presentation. That said, the overall presentation is sadly scattered as memories are shared out of timeline and ricochet between important ideas she is presenting and getting caught up in her emotions. She describes a loving relationship with her only brother in different parts of the timeline but oddly states that he only recently became paralyzed without too much more mentioned. All of Jayne's daughter's are described in loving details but nary a mention of her middle daughter's recent marriage to another woman. These details are of course known on the internet but seems strange that they are not addressed in this very lengthy memoir.
The Wikipedia account of Jayne says that her parents taught her among other things to aim high in life and suffer disappointments silently. Now that her parents are deceased it seems she has decided to let loose with her emotions in many parts of this memoir as is certainly her right but it does distract from any particular message she is trying to get across. There are so many professional endeavors that Jayne has been a part of and still continues to be active and endorse that this memoir really could have used some of those corporate connections to assist in showcasing more cogently her incredible past professional experience and show how that this transition in senior years can be every bit as exciting as her past work.
This in no way appears to be a ghost writer assisted memoir and one can clearly hear the subject's own voice literally and figuratively throughout the entire presentation. That said, the overall presentation is sadly scattered as memories are shared out of timeline and ricochet between important ideas she is presenting and getting caught up in her emotions. She describes a loving relationship with her only brother in different parts of the timeline but oddly states that he only recently became paralyzed without too much more mentioned. All of Jayne's daughter's are described in loving details but nary a mention of her middle daughter's recent marriage to another woman. These details are of course known on the internet but seems strange that they are not addressed in this very lengthy memoir.
The Wikipedia account of Jayne says that her parents taught her among other things to aim high in life and suffer disappointments silently. Now that her parents are deceased it seems she has decided to let loose with her emotions in many parts of this memoir as is certainly her right but it does distract from any particular message she is trying to get across. There are so many professional endeavors that Jayne has been a part of and still continues to be active and endorse that this memoir really could have used some of those corporate connections to assist in showcasing more cogently her incredible past professional experience and show how that this transition in senior years can be every bit as exciting as her past work.
July 12, 2025
This review is based on the advance reader’s edition of Plain Jayne. This memoir was a fascinating look at the career of a woman whose versatility allowed her to work as an actress, model, dancer, sportscaster, and fitness video host. At several points in her career, Jayne Kennedy was one of the firsts among black women in the entertainment spaces that she worked in, including being a part of the CBS NFL Today crew and being featured on The Dean Martin Show. She would go on to win an Emmy for her hosting work, as well as an NAACP Image Award for her acting. Her versatility was fostered in her childhood, where she participated in a variety of activities, including sports, and the Girls State program, events that would prepare for a life working in entertainment.
Ms. Kennedy was able to look back through writing her memoir to see how big her imprint has been, and how she has inspired women who seek to have a career in hosting, sportscasting, or acting.
It was a pleasure to read about such an accomplished woman.
Ms. Kennedy was able to look back through writing her memoir to see how big her imprint has been, and how she has inspired women who seek to have a career in hosting, sportscasting, or acting.
It was a pleasure to read about such an accomplished woman.
November 11, 2025
Jayne's pioneering contributions to sports broadcasting, particularly football, have always been my admiration. Jayne dismantled media barriers during a period when increased representation for Black women was critically needed.
Jayne Kennedy's memoir meticulously chronicles her family's journey from Washington, D.C. to Ohio, detailing the formative years of a young woman with aspirations for Hollywood. The memoir leaves no stone unturned and covers her ascent in media and dealing with the highs and lows of fame, racism, her personal struggles with endometriosis, a philandering ex-husband (Leon Kennedy), and the unfortunate sextape incident that unfairly overshadowed her career.
I deeply respect and commend Jayne's courage in finally sharing her story and coming out of her reclusiveness. However, the extensive details impedes the pace, and felt overwhelming at times.
Nevertheless, Jayne's strength and enduring legacy provides a meaningful perspective from a genuine pioneer in the media industry.
Jayne Kennedy's memoir meticulously chronicles her family's journey from Washington, D.C. to Ohio, detailing the formative years of a young woman with aspirations for Hollywood. The memoir leaves no stone unturned and covers her ascent in media and dealing with the highs and lows of fame, racism, her personal struggles with endometriosis, a philandering ex-husband (Leon Kennedy), and the unfortunate sextape incident that unfairly overshadowed her career.
I deeply respect and commend Jayne's courage in finally sharing her story and coming out of her reclusiveness. However, the extensive details impedes the pace, and felt overwhelming at times.
Nevertheless, Jayne's strength and enduring legacy provides a meaningful perspective from a genuine pioneer in the media industry.
March 4, 2026
3.85 stars ⭐️
I stumbled upon Jayne Kennedy and her story by accident. As an aspiring broadcaster who is also a black woman, I was searching for people to aspire to and came across Jayne.
Her memoir resonated with me in several ways, especially during her experiences with being the only black person in the room and getting treated differently because of it. But I also was so impressed with all that she accomplished throughout her early years. It’s a shame that her legacy hasn’t had the same lasting effect as others in the field considering how much of an impact she was to her community and beyond and the doors she opened for the women behind her.
I’m so glad to have found out about her through happenstance, her story is yet another reason to be inspired to achieve my dreams.
I stumbled upon Jayne Kennedy and her story by accident. As an aspiring broadcaster who is also a black woman, I was searching for people to aspire to and came across Jayne.
Her memoir resonated with me in several ways, especially during her experiences with being the only black person in the room and getting treated differently because of it. But I also was so impressed with all that she accomplished throughout her early years. It’s a shame that her legacy hasn’t had the same lasting effect as others in the field considering how much of an impact she was to her community and beyond and the doors she opened for the women behind her.
I’m so glad to have found out about her through happenstance, her story is yet another reason to be inspired to achieve my dreams.
August 28, 2025
I got to read an early version of this book, and I thought it was pretty good. I remember the first time I saw Jayne Kennedy, growing up, and my mom gushed about how when she was growing up she was one of her idols. Reading this book, I can fully see why. I loved reading about Jayne's life and journey from her high school days, to her time on NFL Today and her relationships. I will definitely be gifting this to my parents and aunts because it was really a good book, and I'm glad she finally got a chance to tell her story.
March 27, 2026
Yes, she’s an icon and I learned a lot about her. She’s someone to be admired for all of the barriers she’s broken and the vulnerability required to tell your story. Representation matters. For all of that, I’d give 5 stars. However - I listened to the audiobook and the delivery was overly dramatic (to me). So much so that I stopped and had to comeback to the book a few times. I almost gave up on it.
October 5, 2025
Jayne Kennedy Overton's autobiography is a page-turner. I always admired her since I was a child, and enjoyed reading about her family history, her formative years, and career. I am proud to have this book as part of my collection of life stories written by African Americans that reflect our people's rich diversity.
September 6, 2025
What an awesome life's journey!
This book is sooo good, I couldn't put it down!
I've always been a big fan of Jayne Harrison Kennedy. She kicked so many doors open that black women are able to walk through today.
Thank you Jayne for a job well done.....You will never be forgotten.
This book is sooo good, I couldn't put it down!
I've always been a big fan of Jayne Harrison Kennedy. She kicked so many doors open that black women are able to walk through today.
Thank you Jayne for a job well done.....You will never be forgotten.
October 4, 2025
Her Story
I will not be critiquing, pointing out or nay saying anything about this book. This is Mrs. Jayne Harrison Kennedy Overton memoir, and I enjoyed her story. May God continue to show you favor.
I will not be critiquing, pointing out or nay saying anything about this book. This is Mrs. Jayne Harrison Kennedy Overton memoir, and I enjoyed her story. May God continue to show you favor.
October 29, 2025
This is a candid story about her story from childhood and through current. Her belief in God, poise and grace helped her navigate Hollywood and Sports Broadcasting and come out better with the love and support of her Family and friends.
March 3, 2026
It was Good. Started very long and slow with way too many details. It picked up midway and became interesting. Too many celebrities mentioned. It was interesting, and I wish her continued blessings.
January 1, 2026
Beautiful memoir.
January 18, 2026
I have always been a fan of Jayne Kennedy. Her memoir is a brave, courageous and inspiring. She had some incredible life experiences and lots of wisdom to share from them.
April 1, 2026
Great read. We had a wonderful discussion at my church's book club.
April 9, 2026
Absolutely wonderful book and we were so excited that the Author read the book herself. To hear her story, the doors she opened for so many women was such a joy to hear and learn about.
June 13, 2026
amazing story
Jayne is an inspiration to us all. What an amazing story of her life. What an roll model for us all.
Jayne is an inspiration to us all. What an amazing story of her life. What an roll model for us all.
January 2, 2026
Plain Jayne was one of those memoirs where I didn’t necessarily see myself in the story, but I found myself deeply admiring the woman telling it.
Jayne Kennedy writes with a calm confidence that comes from having lived a life that truly broke barriers. Her career alone is impressive on paper, but what stood out to me most was how clearly she understands the weight of being first. First Black woman to win Miss Ohio USA. Firsts in sports broadcasting. Firsts in spaces that were never built with her in mind. She doesn’t dramatize these accomplishments, but you can feel the pressure behind them.
This memoir feels reflective rather than sensational. Jayne shares her rise in Hollywood, the doors she helped open, and the cost that sometimes came with that visibility. Even when her experiences felt far removed from my own, I could empathize with the resilience it took to keep moving forward in an industry that so often objectifies and limits women, especially women of color.
Her voice is honest and conversational, almost like she is sitting across from you, finally telling the full story after years of being seen but not fully heard. I appreciated that she didn’t shy away from the scars that came with the success, but also didn’t frame her life through bitterness. There is strength in that balance.
What kept this from being a five star read for me was that at times I wanted a little more emotional depth in certain moments. I was captivated by her achievements and perspective, but I occasionally wished she lingered longer on how certain experiences shaped her internally. Still, the impact of her story is undeniable.
Plain Jayne is a powerful memoir about legacy, resilience, and making space where none existed before. Even if you cannot fully relate to Jayne Kennedy’s life, it is impossible not to respect it. This is a story worth reading for the history alone, and even more for the woman behind it.
Jayne Kennedy writes with a calm confidence that comes from having lived a life that truly broke barriers. Her career alone is impressive on paper, but what stood out to me most was how clearly she understands the weight of being first. First Black woman to win Miss Ohio USA. Firsts in sports broadcasting. Firsts in spaces that were never built with her in mind. She doesn’t dramatize these accomplishments, but you can feel the pressure behind them.
This memoir feels reflective rather than sensational. Jayne shares her rise in Hollywood, the doors she helped open, and the cost that sometimes came with that visibility. Even when her experiences felt far removed from my own, I could empathize with the resilience it took to keep moving forward in an industry that so often objectifies and limits women, especially women of color.
Her voice is honest and conversational, almost like she is sitting across from you, finally telling the full story after years of being seen but not fully heard. I appreciated that she didn’t shy away from the scars that came with the success, but also didn’t frame her life through bitterness. There is strength in that balance.
What kept this from being a five star read for me was that at times I wanted a little more emotional depth in certain moments. I was captivated by her achievements and perspective, but I occasionally wished she lingered longer on how certain experiences shaped her internally. Still, the impact of her story is undeniable.
Plain Jayne is a powerful memoir about legacy, resilience, and making space where none existed before. Even if you cannot fully relate to Jayne Kennedy’s life, it is impossible not to respect it. This is a story worth reading for the history alone, and even more for the woman behind it.
May 21, 2026
Great behind the scenes look at Jayne’s life and career!
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