Long‑time actress Jill Wagner, best known for playing Bobby, the leader of the Lioness program’s Quick Reaction Force on Taylor Sheridan’s hit series “Lioness,” has settled on a farm in Tennessee with her husband and two young daughters. Wagner, who grew up in a military family—her grandfather, uncle and father all served as Marines—says her background helped shape the authenticity of the show.
From Hollywood to the countryside
After moving to California early in her career, Wagner returned to her country roots in 2016, purchasing a farmhouse in rural Tennessee. She described the property at first as looking “like a scary haunted house,” but soon saw its potential as a family home. The couple renovated the house, fixing a broken fence, a leaky roof and a malfunctioning tractor, turning the property into a place where their children could run and play.
Military connection fuels the role
Wagner’s husband, David Lemanowicz, is a former professional hockey player who entered the U.S. Army Reserve in 2008, rising to the rank of major by 2020. He introduced Wagner to the real‑life Lioness program, a special operations unit that inspired the television series. Wagner told Parade in 2024 that she spent five years developing the story, meeting with actual Lioness members to blend their personalities into the character of Bobby.
“Taylor writes in such an honest and raw way,” Wagner said. “I didn’t want this show to become Barbies with guns. I wanted it to represent the women I knew and respected in the military, and he’s done that brilliantly.”
Family life on the farm
The couple’s daughters, Army Gray (6) and Daisy Roberta (5), are growing up surrounded by farm life and the values of service and patriotism. Wagner’s typical day begins at 6:30 a.m. on the front porch, tending to flowers and listening to her husband’s complaints about farm repairs. She says the routine keeps her grounded and reminds her of the sacrifices made by service members.
Wagner also noted that Bobby’s signature toothpick is an homage to her father, further linking her personal history to the on‑screen character.
Show’s impact and upcoming season
Season three of “Lioness” premiered earlier this month on Paramount+, releasing new episodes each Sunday. Wagner hopes the series continues to give women in the military the recognition they deserve while honoring the men who serve alongside them.
“It is important to give these women the moment they deserve on screen while not taking any away from the men who also serve. They both deserve our respect for the sacrifices they make,” she said.
Local relevance
Wagner’s story resonates with Tennessee families who value faith, patriotism and traditional family life. Her decision to raise her children on a farm reflects a growing desire among some Americans to return to rural roots, prioritize family stability, and support the men and women who protect the nation.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
