Jayne Trcka, a professional bodybuilder who portrayed Miss Mann in the 2000 comedy "Scary Movie," was found dead in her Alpine home at age 62.
Authorities found Trcka unresponsive in her kitchen on Dec. 12, after a concerned friend visited her home at 285 Arnold Way when repeated phone calls went unanswered, the San Diego County Medical Examiner's Office told NTD in a statement on Jan. 7. The friend found her unresponsive in the kitchen and dialed 911. First responders confirmed her death when they arrived, with the medical examiner’s office noting that no medical intervention was required as she was already deceased.
The investigation remains active, with both cause and manner of death still pending. The San Diego Sheriff's Department is handling the investigation.
Trcka's son told TMZ he was unaware of any medical conditions or illnesses that might have explained her sudden passing.
Trcka earned a degree in graphic communications from Dakota County Technical Institute and worked in that field until 1991. She relocated to San Diego in 1986 and began weight training, launching a bodybuilding career that would define much of her adult life. By 1988, she started competing in local bodybuilding competitions, consistently placing at the top of her division.
In 1991, she began working as a postal carrier in the San Diego area. She started personal training part-time at local gyms in 1996 before leaving her government position in 1998 to become a certified personal trainer through the National Council of Strength & Fitness. She spent years training clients, providing nutritional guidance and making guest appearances at bodybuilding events.
Trcka's impressive physique and dedication caught Hollywood's attention, landing her the role of the masculine gym teacher Miss Mann in the 2000 parody film "Scary Movie.” The experience opened doors to additional entertainment work, including appearances on "The Drew Carey Show" and "Whose Line Is It Anyway?" She also appeared in Lady Gaga's music video for "Telephone.” Her bodybuilding achievements earned her features in publications such as MuscleMag International and Women's Physique World.
To hone her craft, Trcka studied acting with instructor Shawn Nelson and at San Diego City College. In 1992, she participated in a professional-style wrestling exhibition with legendary pro wrestler "Killer Kowalski" in San Bernardino.
Beyond fitness and entertainment, Trcka pursued diverse interests including real estate investments, stock trading, scuba diving, rollerblading, biking, tennis, and martial arts.
The medical examiner's office said they will email a copy of the completed autopsy report when finalized. The date of her death remains unknown, though officials confirmed her death occurred at her home where she lived alone.
