Gloria Garcia is a Mexican-American actress who became known as the "Jakku Defender" in Star Wars 'The Force Awakens' when she was chosen personally by J.J. Abrams for the scene. She is the first 'featured' female in the film whilst protecting the character 'Poe' played by Oscar Isaac. She encompasses the role of a mother in the recently released #1 Netflix Film ' Afterlife of the Party' where she plays 'Sofia'. Other projects include that of a Police Officer in the number one soap opera in England, Eastenders, as well as a D.E.A. Agent in The Infiltrator. A real S.I.A Licensed Bodyguard and former Cook County Chicago Sheriff Police Officer, she is trained in combatives & firearms. Having been disciplined under the S.O.R.T Team, the Special Operations Response Team for Cook County Prison, she has commanded over 50 officers in the male RTU-Psych Ward division. She was appointed within a year as an Officer by her Captain to be a Commander in Training at the Sheriff's Academy for the entry exam physicals, an honour bestowed on very few. Gloria has also been recognised as one of the top female Bodyguards. She is fluent in Spanish being Half Mexican and Half Polish . Gloria was born in Cicero,Illinois. She is involved in education for orphans in Puebla, Mexico where her origins lies. She is a graduate of The Poor School Drama School in London.