Jenna Dewan reflects on ‘life-changing’ moment with 108-year-old holocaust survivor

Jenna Dewan has reflected on what she’s called a “life-changing” experience after working alongside 108-year-old Holocaust survivor Risa Igelfeld for the Borrowed Spotlight project.

Speaking with People at the opening night of the Holocaust remembrance exhibition in Los Angeles, the Rookie star said joining the project was an immediate yes, but the impact far exceeded her expectations. 

Dewan was paired with Igelfeld, who survived the Holocaust and remains vibrant and joyful at 108.

“I left with a really life-changing moment,” Dewan said. “It blew me away that somebody who survived the unimaginable has such positivity and light and life force to her still. It just changed the way I see life and how I hear life — my perspective.”

The Borrowed Spotlight exhibition, led by photographer Bryce Thompson, features portraits of celebrities alongside Holocaust survivors, including Jennifer Garner, Billy Porter, David Schwimmer, and Josh Peck. 

The goal is to use public visibility to honor survivors and preserve their stories.

Dewan described Igelfeld as “vivacious,” noting that even during the busy opening night, she was dancing, singing and expressing gratitude. 

“She’s still radiating and finding positivity,” Dewan said. “I think it’s a life lesson for everyone — how you choose to respond to what you’ve lived through.”

The actress added that the connection extended beyond the project, revealing she attended Igelfeld’s 108th birthday celebration and formed a lasting friendship.

The Borrowed Spotlight exhibition runs through March 1 at Hancock Park and follows the release of a coffee-table book of the same name in April 2025, which includes a foreword by Cindy Crawford.