Melissa Jackson is a broke, fat, Black woman working as a courtesy transport driver at JFK Airport in Hulu’s series How to Die Alone. Played by Natasha Rothwell, Melissa has never been in love and feels disconnected from her dreams. After a near-death experience on her birthday, she decides to stop settling for less and takes charge of her life. Her journey is about embracing boldness and self-love, as she learns to create the life she truly wants.

Trivia/Facts

• Melissa Jackson works as a courtesy transport driver at JFK Airport. She is a broke, fat, Black woman struggling with loneliness. She has never been in love and feels disconnected from her dreams. After a near-death experience, Melissa decides to take control of her life.
• Melissa has been living a mundane life until her accident changes her mindset. She realizes the importance of living fully and refuses to settle for less. Her story is about reclaiming her confidence and dreams. The series shows her making bold decisions to improve her romantic and professional life.

• Melissa is deeply affected by her ex, Mike, getting married. She celebrates her birthday alone, feeling the weight of her loneliness. After the accident, Melissa wakes up in the hospital with a new perspective. She becomes determined to be “that bitch,” no matter what.
• Melissa’s story, created by Natasha Rothwell and Vera Santamaria, is based on relatable themes of fear and loneliness. Rothwell draws from her personal experiences and insecurities. The show highlights the difference between being alone and feeling lonely. Melissa’s journey teaches her to save herself instead of waiting for others.

• Melissa enjoys her job at the airport, which gives her a sense of power and fulfillment. Unlike typical stories, her arc doesn’t involve switching careers to find happiness. Rothwell emphasizes that Mel’s work is valuable and enough. This makes her a relatable, grounded character for the audience.
• The series “How to Die Alone” is described as a “love letter to the unhealed version” of Rothwell. It took about eight years to bring the story to life on screen. Mel’s story is not about finding solutions to loneliness but creating conversations around it. Through rooting for Mel, viewers are encouraged to root for their own growth and happiness.

Melissa Jackson’s Relationship with Other Characters

• Rory (Conrad Ricamora): Rory is Melissa’s best friend and closest confidant. He provides emotional support and encourages her to take risks in her life. Their bond is built on trust and shared experiences, and Rory is always there when Melissa needs someone to lean on. Their friendship is a key source of strength for her throughout the series.
• Alex (Jocko Sims): Alex is Melissa’s ex-boyfriend, and his upcoming marriage deeply affects her. His engagement is a wake-up call for Melissa, reminding her of the loneliness she feels. Although they are no longer together, Alex’s presence continues to influence her emotions. His marriage is one of the triggers that lead her to take control of her life.

• Terrance (KeiLyn Durrel Jones): Terrance is one of Melissa’s co-workers at JFK Airport. They share a professional relationship, but over time, he becomes someone she can talk to about her struggles. Terrance helps ground Melissa and supports her on her journey. Their relationship highlights the importance of work friendships.
• Allie (Jaylee Hamidi): Allie is another friend of Melissa, but their friendship is more casual. She offers Melissa different perspectives on life and love, helping Melissa break out of her shell. Allie represents the type of friend who encourages fun and adventure. Her presence helps Melissa explore new possibilities.
• Patty (Michelle McLeod): Patty is a co-worker and sometimes a rival to Melissa. She often challenges Melissa at work, creating a tense dynamic. Their relationship brings moments of humor and competition to the story. Despite the rivalry, Patty pushes Melissa to step up in her professional life.