The fitness and entertainment worlds are mourning the sudden death of Jayne Trcka, the trailblazing bodybuilder and actress best known for her unforgettable role as Miss Mann in the cult comedy Scary Movie. Trcka, who was 62, was found unresponsive in her kitchen in San Diego, California, on December 12, 2025, after a concerned friend visited her home following several unanswered calls, as reported by TMZ and confirmed by the San Diego County Medical Examiner.
According to multiple sources, including TMZ and MARCA, Trcka’s son said he was unaware of any prior medical conditions that might explain her sudden passing. Emergency responders pronounced her dead at the scene. The San Diego County Medical Examiner has verified her death, but as of early January 2026, the official cause remains under investigation and has not been released to the public. Authorities have not reported any foul play, and her family continues to await answers.
Jayne Trcka’s passing came as a shock to her family and friends. Her son told TMZ, “We had no idea of any illness or health issue that could explain her death.” This sentiment was echoed by those close to her, who described her as the picture of health and vitality — a reputation built over decades in the worlds of bodybuilding, fitness, and entertainment.
Born on February 27, 1963, in Saint Paul, Minnesota, Jayne Trcka was drawn to athletics from an early age. She participated in gymnastics, dance, diving, and track as a child, laying the foundation for a lifetime of physical achievement. She later earned a degree in Graphic Communications from Dakota County Technical Institute, which allowed her to briefly pursue a career outside sports. But her passion for fitness quickly took center stage after she moved to Southern California in 1986, where she began weight training in earnest.
By 1988, Trcka was competing in bodybuilding contests, quickly establishing herself as a formidable force. Her dedication paid off with major wins, including first place at the 1997 California State Championships and the 1998 Junior Nationals. She also claimed top honors at the 2004 Los Angeles competition and finished in the top ten in more than 20 national bodybuilding events, according to MuscleMag International and Women’s Physique World. Her muscular physique and charismatic stage presence made her a favorite among fans and judges alike in an era that was redefining women’s roles in the sport.
Trcka’s influence extended far beyond the competition stage. She was featured on the covers of magazines such as Flex, MuscleMag International, Iron Man, and Women’s Physique World, cementing her status as a fitness icon. As noted in MARCA, her modeling work and sponsorships with fitness brands contributed significantly to her estimated net worth of over one million dollars — though her family never publicly confirmed financial details.
In the late 1990s, Trcka left her job as a postal worker to focus full-time on fitness and personal training, earning certification and mentoring others in the sport. Her reputation for professionalism and warmth made her a respected figure in the fitness community, and friends and fans have shared tributes celebrating her work ethic and generosity. According to MARCA, "Her professionalism, charisma, and dedication to fitness left a significant impact on her fans and colleagues."
Hollywood soon came calling. Trcka made her acting debut as the strict gym teacher Miss Mann in the 2000 box-office hit Scary Movie, a parody that lampooned horror film tropes. Her memorable performance, alongside stars like Anna Faris, Regina Hall, and Shannon Elizabeth, quickly became a fan favorite. This role marked her only appearance in the franchise but opened doors to further opportunities in television and film.
Trcka went on to appear as herself on The Drew Carey Show and Whose Line Is It Anyway?, showcasing her unique blend of strength and humor. Her versatility also led to roles in films such as The Black Magic (2002), Nudity Required (2003), The Interplanetary Surplus Male and Amazon Women of Outer Space (2003), and Cattle Call (2006). In 2009, she made a cameo in the music video for “Telephone” by Lady Gaga and Beyoncé, further broadening her pop culture footprint. She even appeared on Tim and Eric Awesome Show, Great Job! and other entertainment projects, according to Merca2.0.
Despite her growing fame, Trcka kept her personal life private. There are no public records of a spouse or partner, and she preferred to let her career speak for itself. In her later years, she transitioned into real estate, working as a realtor with Realty Source California. She continued to stay active in fitness and was remembered by colleagues as someone who brought the same discipline and energy to her second career as she did to bodybuilding and acting.
Trcka’s death has prompted an outpouring of grief and remembrance from both the bodybuilding and entertainment communities. Friends, fans, and former colleagues have paid tribute to her indomitable spirit, her support for others, and her role in paving the way for women in competitive bodybuilding and on screen. As MARCA reported, "She pushed boundaries while supporting others in the fitness community." Her legacy is not just one of trophies and screen credits, but of inspiration for countless women who saw in her a model of strength, resilience, and versatility.
While the investigation into her cause of death continues, the absence of any known illness or medical condition has left many searching for answers. The San Diego County Medical Examiner has not yet released a final report, and the family has asked for privacy as they await further information. For now, those who admired Jayne Trcka are left to celebrate a life defined by achievement, generosity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence across multiple fields.
Jayne Trcka’s journey — from Saint Paul to Southern California, from bodybuilding stages to Hollywood sets, and from magazine covers to real estate offices — was nothing short of extraordinary. Her story is a reminder that one person’s drive can open doors and break barriers, inspiring generations to come.