The arrival of Jennie, an African chimpanzee, to the home of an 11-year-old boy (Alex D. Linz) marks the beginning of a once in a lifetime friendship as they show each other how to open up their hearts. Dr. Hugo Archibald: Lance Guest. Lea: Sheila Kelley. Sarah: Abigail Mavity. Dr. Pamela Prentiss: Sheryl Lee Ralph.