Simone Kirlew is a first-generation Jamaican-American producer from Prince George’s County, Maryland, committed to telling stories that amplify diverse voices and center women of color in powerful roles. She is a graduate of the American Film Institute Conservatory's Producing MFA Program and the founder of Simple Gal Pictures, a production company dedicated to developing bold, character-driven stories across film and television.
Her latest feature, Purgatory, directed by Lindsay Lanzillotta and starring Abby Elliott, John Reynolds, and J.K. Simmons, will have its World Premiere in the Discovery programme at the 2026 Toronto International Film Festival. Simone also co-produced the feature All That Glisters and produced the award-winning independent series The Comic Shop, which received the Grand Jury Prize for Best Episodic Series at the American Black Film Festival. She also served as producing mentor for the Youth Cinema Project Alumni film.
Recognized as an Ignite Caribbean 30 Under 30 Changemaker in 2024, Simone began her career with production work in Montreal and Kingston, Jamaica, on projects for Hulu and BBC.
Passionate about creating stories that explore both the ordinary and extraordinary experiences of Black life, Simone believes the most compelling films reveal the humanity in everyday moments while challenging audiences to see the world through a new lens. When she's not on set or developing new projects, you can usually find Simone sharing a great bottle of wine with friends, planning her next adventure, or searching for the perfect order of fries.
