Who Is Susan Moskop From Jeopardy? Meet the Memphis Arts Leader, Actress, and Community Advocate

Susan Moskop has devoted much of her life to enriching the cultural landscape of Memphis, Tennessee. Known throughout the local arts community as an arts administrator, actress, volunteer, and supporter of nonprofit cultural organizations, she has spent decades helping audiences connect with the performing arts while also stepping into the spotlight herself as a performer.

National audiences were introduced to Moskop in 2026 when she appeared as a contestant on Jeopardy!, where she was identified as a “Retired Arts Administrator & Actress from Memphis, Tennessee.” While her appearance on the iconic quiz show brought her wider recognition, those familiar with Memphis theatre and arts organizations have long known her as a dedicated advocate whose contributions have helped strengthen the region’s cultural community.

Through her work with Ballet Memphis, Theatre Memphis, the Tennessee Shakespeare Company, and numerous community initiatives, Moskop has built a legacy centered on creativity, service, and a belief in the power of the arts to bring people together.

A Lifelong Commitment to the Arts

For Susan Moskop, the arts have never been simply a profession or hobby. They have been a central part of her life and identity.

Throughout her career, she has supported the performing arts from multiple perspectives. She has worked behind the scenes as an administrator and communicator, appeared on stage as an actress, volunteered her time and talents to nonprofit organizations, and served as a patron and advocate for cultural institutions throughout the Mid-South.

This broad involvement has given her a unique understanding of how arts organizations operate and why they matter. From attracting audiences and building community support to creating memorable performances, Moskop has played a role in nearly every aspect of the arts ecosystem.

Her dedication has earned her the respect of colleagues, performers, patrons, and community leaders throughout Memphis.

Building a Career at Ballet Memphis

One of the most significant chapters of Moskop’s professional career was her work with Ballet Memphis, one of the most respected dance companies in the South.

As Communications Coordinator, she helped serve as a bridge between the organization and the public. Her responsibilities included media relations, marketing campaigns, audience engagement initiatives, community outreach efforts, and public communications.

Arts organizations rely heavily on effective communication to connect with audiences, attract donors, promote performances, and fulfill their educational missions. Moskop’s work helped ensure that Ballet Memphis remained visible and accessible within the community while supporting the company’s artistic goals.

Her efforts also contributed to expanding awareness of the arts throughout Western Tennessee. By helping audiences discover performances and educational opportunities, she played a role in making the arts more accessible to people throughout the region.

Over more than a decade of service, she became known as a dedicated advocate for arts participation and cultural engagement.

Taking the Stage at Theatre Memphis

While much of her professional life focused on supporting artists and organizations behind the scenes, Moskop has also maintained an active presence as a performer.

She has been involved with Theatre Memphis, one of the region’s most prominent community theatre organizations. Founded more than a century ago, Theatre Memphis has long been a cornerstone of the city’s performing arts scene.

Among her appearances, Moskop has participated in productions of A Christmas Carol, a holiday tradition beloved by local audiences. Her work has included ensemble roles as well as serving as a swing performer.

Being a swing is often considered one of the most challenging assignments in theatre. Swings must learn multiple parts and be prepared to step into different roles at a moment’s notice. The position requires flexibility, dedication, and an exceptional understanding of the production as a whole.

Her willingness to take on such responsibilities reflects both her professionalism and her commitment to supporting successful theatrical productions.

Supporting the Tennessee Shakespeare Company

Susan Moskop and her husband, RJ Moskop, are also well known for their support of the Tennessee Shakespeare Company.

The organization is dedicated to presenting classical theatre, educational programming, and community outreach initiatives throughout Tennessee. Like many nonprofit arts organizations, it relies heavily on volunteers, donors, and advocates who believe in its mission.

The Moskops have participated in fundraising efforts and community initiatives that help support the company’s programming and educational goals. Their involvement reflects a shared belief in the importance of making theatre accessible to audiences of all ages and backgrounds.

Through these efforts, they have helped strengthen opportunities for arts education, literacy, and community engagement throughout the region.

A Creative Spirit Beyond the Theatre

Although theatre has played a major role in her life, Moskop’s creativity extends far beyond the stage.

Within Memphis arts circles, she has become especially known for her culinary talents. Friends and fellow arts supporters often associate her with homemade gourmet ice cream, specialty desserts, and carefully crafted recipes that frequently appear at fundraising events and charity auctions.

Her culinary creations have become popular contributions to events benefiting local arts organizations. In particular, she has supported Tennessee Shakespeare Company fundraising efforts through donations of homemade treats and specialty foods.

These contributions highlight another dimension of her personality: a desire to use her talents, hobbies, and creativity in support of causes she cares about.

A Passion for Cooking, Baking, and Gardening

Outside of her work in the performing arts, Moskop enjoys several creative hobbies that allow her to continue exploring new ideas and skills.

Cooking and baking are among her favorite pursuits. She is particularly known for creating custom gourmet ice cream flavors and experimenting with artisanal recipes. Her interest in food reflects the same creativity and attention to detail that have characterized her work in theatre and arts administration.

She also enjoys baking sourdough-based dishes and developing recipes that incorporate fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Gardening is another important interest. She grows produce such as tomatoes, basil, and squash blossoms, often using ingredients from her own garden in the recipes she creates. These hobbies provide an additional outlet for creativity while connecting her to the community through food and hospitality.

National Attention Through Jeopardy!

In 2026, Susan Moskop stepped onto a different kind of stage when she appeared as a contestant on Jeopardy!.

The long-running quiz show has introduced audiences to contestants from every imaginable profession, and Moskop represented the arts community with distinction. She was introduced as a retired arts administrator and actress from Memphis, bringing attention to the important work performed by countless individuals who support cultural organizations across the country.

Her appearance on the show offered viewers a glimpse into the life of someone whose career has been dedicated to promoting creativity, education, and public engagement.

For many in Memphis, her participation was another example of the curiosity, intelligence, and enthusiasm that have long made her a valued member of the local arts community.

A Lasting Impact on Memphis Arts and Culture

Susan Moskop’s contributions to Memphis extend far beyond any single role or organization.

As an arts administrator, she helped connect audiences with cultural experiences. As an actress, she contributed to memorable theatrical productions. As a volunteer and advocate, she supported literacy programs, fundraising efforts, and educational initiatives. As a donor and community supporter, she helped strengthen organizations that enrich the lives of countless residents.

Her story illustrates the many ways individuals can contribute to the arts, whether through professional work, creative expression, volunteer service, or community leadership.

Through decades of involvement, she has become a respected figure whose impact continues to be felt throughout Memphis’ vibrant cultural community.

Susan Moskop Quick Facts