Karine Jean-Pierre Says She Doesn’t ‘Miss’ Press Secretary Job (Exclusive)

Karine Jean-Pierre is enjoying life outside of the political spotlight.

President Joe Biden’s former White House Press Secretary spoke with PEOPLE at the opening night of Othello on Broadway. Attending the newest iteration of the Shakespeare classic – which stars Denzel Washington in the titular role, and Jake Gyllenhaal as Iago – is just one of the moments Jean-Pierre said she is able to enjoy in her post-White House life.

“It was an honor and a privilege to have the job and to have done it for two and a half years, but I don’t miss it,” Jean-Pierre admitted.

In addition to Broadway shows, she shared that the past few months have been filled with “self-care, sleep, hanging out with my family, hanging out with my friends.”

The Columbia grad shares a daughter with her ex-partner, former CNN correspondent Suzanne Malveaux.

After working as chief of staff for Vice President Kamala Harris during the 2020 presidential campaign, Jean-Pierre, 50, succeeded Jen Psaki as press secretary, serving from May 2022 to January 2025. 

She made history in the role, as the first Black person and the first openly LGBTQ person to take on the position of White House press secretary.

In her first-ever official briefing, Jean-Pierre told reporters, “It’s a real honor to be standing here today … I appreciate the historic nature.”

“I believe that being behind this podium, being in this room, being in this building, is not about one person,” she continued. “It’s about what we do on behalf of the American people. Clearly, the president believes representation matters and I appreciate him giving me this opportunity. It’s another reason why I think we are all so proud that this is the most diverse administration in history.”

While she has not yet announced her next career steps, Jean-Pierre has options. For now, she’s enjoying the opportunity to pursue personal fun, including seeing one of her “favorite” Shakespeare plays.

“To support Broadway, to come out and see the plays and the musicals, and having an opportunity to see Denzel Washington do Shakespeare … I cannot wait. I cannot wait to see him on the stage,” she marveled.

“[Othello is] such a complex, nuanced play that has tons of human emotions,” she added. “I am honored to be here.”

Othello kicked off a 15-week run at NYC’s Barrymore Theatre on March 23, with shows running through June 8.