Justin Timberlake’s career may be suffering in the wake of the fallout from Britney Spears’ memoir,

but it was his wife who admits she almost quit Hollywood before the success of her series The Sinner.

In a recent episode of The Bright Side podcast, Biel, 42, discussed the impact that founding her own production company had on her career in Hollywood.

When asked about the opportunities that emerged from this venture, Biel shared insights into her journey with Iron Ocean Productions, the company she co-founded with producer Michelle Purple two decades ago.

Biel Faced Challenges Launching Her Own Production Company

Reflecting on their early challenges, Biel candidly admitted, “The company had almost no success in its first 10 years.” Despite the initial struggles, this endeavor eventually paved the way for new possibilities and growth in the industry, and Jessica likely is glad she stuck with it now.

“Doors did not open at all really, not even being in the business so long,” she explained. “We had a very challenging time getting any story told. We made a short film, we made a full-length feature, which was beautiful and a cool experience, but it was a labor of love.”

Following this period of struggle, Biel and Purple finally found their breakthrough with The Sinner, a police anthology series they co-executive produced. Before the cameras could start rolling on the adaptation of Petra Hammesfahr’s novel, they faced the crucial task of securing a network to pick up the series.

Biel admits she was ready to quit her company if The Sinner didn’t take off. “When we were actually selling that show, Michelle and I looked at each other and she said, ‘If we don’t sell this show, I’m quitting,’ and I said, ‘Me too, I’m quitting,’” Biel recalled.

What Made Biel Almost Quit Hollywood

The mother-of-two continued, “If this show doesn’t sell, I don’t know what people want, I don’t know what to bring them. I don’t understand this business anymore. I just don’t get it anymore.”

In a stroke of good fortune for Biel, USA Network decided to greenlight the show The Sinner featured Biel in the leading role for its debut season, acting alongside Bill Pullman. Biel’s performance in the first season was widely praised, culminating in a Primetime Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited Series or Movie. The show’s success spanned four seasons, solidifying both Biel’s and Iron Ocean Productions’ status in the television industry.

The Sinner became one of Iron Ocean’s most notable successes, premiering in 2017. As a breakout hit, it significantly boosted the company’s reputation, showcasing its ability to produce high-quality, engaging content.

Iron Ocean Productions began as a small, independent venture with high hopes but faced numerous challenges in its formative years, but it’s now thriving, allowing Biel to experience the joys of being in front of as well as behind the camera.