Rise to Success: Career Highlights of Jana Kramer

Discover the career path of Jana Kramer, from the first major opportunity to industry-changing achievements.

Jana Rae Kramer is an American actress and country music singer. She gained prominence for her role as Alex Dupre on the popular television series One Tree Hill. Beyond acting, Kramer has also established a career in country music.

Sections (3)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements

2002: Acting Debut

In 2002, Jana Kramer made her acting debut in the low-budget independent horror film Dead/Undead, launching her acting career.

2007: Recurring Role on Friday Night Lights

In 2007, Jana Kramer appeared in a recurring role on the NBC sports drama television series Friday Night Lights, playing Noelle Davenport in the second season.

2008: Appeared in 90210

In 2008, Kramer appeared in The CW teen drama series 90210, playing high school student Portia Ranson.

May 5, 2009: Final Appearance in 90210

On May 5, 2009, Jana Kramer made her final appearance in "The Party's Over" episode of 90210, concluding her role as Portia Ranson.

June 2009: Starred in One Tree Hill

In June 2009, Jana Kramer began starring in the seventh season of One Tree Hill as Alex Dupre, marking a significant role in her television career.

February 2011: Signed Recording Contract with Elektra Records

In February 2011, Jana Kramer signed a recording contract with Elektra Records, marking a key step in her music career.

January 16, 2012: Released Debut Single "Why Ya Wanna"

On January 16, 2012, Jana Kramer released her official debut single, "Why Ya Wanna", marking a key milestone in her music career.

January 18, 2012: Last Appearance on One Tree Hill

On January 18, 2012, Jana Kramer made her last appearance on One Tree Hill in the second episode of the ninth season, as she focused on her music career.

February 6, 2012: Premiered "Why Ya Wanna" Music Video

On February 6, 2012, Jana Kramer premiered the official music video for her debut single, "Why Ya Wanna", directed by Kristin Barlowe.

February 2012: Cast in Heart of the Country

In February 2012, Jana Kramer was cast as the protagonist in the independent drama film Heart of the Country, taking on the role of Faith Carraday.

March 2012: Left One Tree Hill for Music Career

In March 2012, Jana Kramer announced she would no longer be a regular on One Tree Hill to focus on her music career, signaling a shift in her professional priorities.

June 1, 2012: Televised Live Performance

On June 1, 2012, Jana Kramer made her first televised live performance on Fox & Friends, promoting her debut album by performing "Why Ya Wanna".

June 5, 2012: Released Debut Album Jana Kramer

On June 5, 2012, Jana Kramer released her self-titled debut album, Jana Kramer, which received positive reviews from critics.

August 2012: Signed to Sing Nationwide Jingle

In August 2012, Nationwide Insurance signed Jana Kramer to sing the Nationwide jingle.

June 5, 2013: Appeared in Nationwide Insurance Commercial

On June 5, 2013, Jana Kramer appeared in the first of a series of Nationwide Insurance commercials as part of the "Join the Nation" campaign.

July 2013: Opened for Blake Shelton

In July 2013, Jana Kramer opened for Blake Shelton on his Ten Times Crazier Tour in Virginia Beach, Virginia, showcasing her music to a wider audience.

August 2013: Approaching Midnight World Premiere

In August 2013, the independent film Approaching Midnight, starring Jana Kramer, had its world premiere at the Emagine Royal Oak in Michigan.

April 2014: Second Nationwide Insurance Commercial

In April 2014, Jana Kramer appeared in a second Nationwide commercial, promoting renters' insurance.

November 2014: Reprised Nationwide Role

In November 2014, Jana Kramer reprised her Nationwide role as a sexy Santa Claus-like figure.

August 30, 2016: Competed on Dancing with the Stars

On August 30, 2016, Jana Kramer was announced as a contestant on season 23 of Dancing with the Stars, partnered with Gleb Savchenko.

2024: Competed on The Masked Singer

In 2024, Jana Kramer competed in season twelve of The Masked Singer as "Royal Knight" and was eliminated in the "Group C Finals: Peanuts Thanksgiving".

2024: Starred in Lifetime Movie

In 2024, Jana Kramer starred in the Lifetime movie Gaslit By My Husband: The Morgan Metzer Story as Morgan Metzer and was also the executive producer.