Fresh off a Golden Globes clean sweep for "La La Land," fans are refocusing on some New Jersey roots to compliment the Hollywood inspiration.  Director Damien Chazelle spent most of his childhood in Princeton and his folks are both college professors at esteemed NJ institutions. Dad and mom are linked to Princeton University and TCNJ, respectively.

Chazelle gave a Jersey 'shout out' at the Globes, while accepting his Best Director award on Sunday.

Chazelle's Mercer County upbringing did draw some Jersey pride two years ago, when his film Whiplash garnered three Academy Awards and Chazelle's own first Oscar nod.

Fresh off the powerhouse performance of "La La Land" at the Golden Globes, it's already a strong contender at the Oscars next month. Academy Award nominations will be announced on Tuesday, January 24th.

Depending on how things go, it could be a record-setting winter for the Jersey native, who turns 32 this month.


Proud Jersey Girl Erin Vogt’s first reporting gig involved her Fisher Price tape recorder. As a wife and momma of two kiddies, she firmly believes that life’s too short to drink bad coffee.  A fan of the beach, Dave Grohl and karma, in no particular order.

Follow her on Twitter and on Facebook as ProudJersey.

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