Eva Jade Halford Shines in Poker Face Season 2, Episode 6 – A Breakout Star in the Making
Editor’s Note: This article contains spoilers for “Poker Face” Season 2, Episode 6.
Season 2, Episode 6 of Poker Face breaks away from the usual formula — and it’s all thanks to a scene-stealing performance by Eva Jade Halford, who plays Stephanie, a cunning elementary school student with a dark streak. Set in a school where Charlie (Natasha Lyonne) now works as a lunch lady, this episode introduces a new kind of antagonist: a 12-year-old mastermind with no regrets.
Stephanie’s chilling manipulation of her classmates and indirect role in the death of a class pet mark a striking shift in tone. But it’s Halford’s electric performance that truly elevates the episode. Facing off against Lyonne, Margo Martindale, and Adrienne C. Moore, Halford shows off a maturity and confidence well beyond her years.
A Star is Born: Behind Eva Jade Halford’s Performance
Halford, who recently wrapped filming The Last Day alongside Alicia Vikander, Victoria Pedretti, and Wagner Moura, brings depth and charisma to the role. Although she’s often cast in flashback scenes, she immediately sensed that Poker Face would be different.
“I read the scene and thought, ‘That’s probably not a flashback scene…’” she said, reflecting on the audition process.
From confronting adults with bold defiance to using blackmail to her advantage, Stephanie is one of Poker Face’s most memorable guest characters to date. Halford’s nuanced facial expressions and emotional range — especially in the early scenes — add a layer of complexity that draws viewers in before a single line is spoken.
On Set with the Pros
Halford’s favorite scene to film was also the most challenging — a bathroom confrontation requiring multiple camera angles and intricate set changes. She improvised the singing portion on the spot, bringing spontaneous energy to a key moment.
“They didn’t give me a melody — just lyrics — so I had to make it up on the spot,” she explained.
Working alongside seasoned veterans like Natasha Lyonne and Margo Martindale offered Halford valuable insight into professional acting, while director Adam Arkin’s attention to detail helped shape the episode’s tone and pacing.
What’s Next for Halford?
With Poker Face showcasing her ability to tackle emotionally layered and darkly comedic roles, Halford is setting her sights on even bigger opportunities — including the Broadway stage.
“I’m hoping to do a show on Broadway, or another big show where I’m a bigger part,” she said.
It’s clear that Eva Jade Halford isn’t just a child actor — she’s a rising star with talent, charm, and the potential to lead her own projects.
