Interview: Lacey Chabert's Thrilling New Role

For those of you who know Lacey Chabert only from her role of the young and sweet Claudia Salinger from the 1990s hit nighttime drama “Party of Five,” first of all, I have to say shame on you, since she’s done tons of work since then. And I also have to tell you that you’re going to be surprised when you watch her Nov. 29 at 8 p.m. ET/PT in the Lifetime Movie Network original movie, a psychological thriller called “Non-Stop.”

Lacey plays an executive assistant, Amy Nightingale, on a long nighttime flight to Zurich who strikes up a romantic encounter with a handsome stranger seated next to her. When she later wakes from a nap, she finds that her bag with her ID, cellphone and laptop are missing — as is the mysterious stranger. Furthermore, no one admits to ever seeing the guy in the first place. Recently I spoke with Lacey, who told me she was delighted to play a different character from what her fans are used to seeing.

Celebrity Extra: This is quite a different role than many fans are used to seeing you play. What were some things about Amy and “Non-Stop” that attracted you in the first place?

Lacey Chabert: I like that Amy is in a situation that is completely out of her control and starts to unravel. She’s going through a very difficult time in her life. It was just a lot of subtext to the character. I wanted to do this because it’s a bit more dramatic, and I really like that the whole entire movie basically takes place on one set, which I thought would be really interesting. It was actually really, really fun. It was a little bit of a departure for me from what I have been doing recently. I always try to keep it interesting. I’ve been in the business a long time, and I’m constantly trying to find new roles or find aspects of a character that I’ve never gotten to delve into before.

CE: Can you give me a little backstory about your character and where we are when the movie starts?

LC: Sure — the story picks up when she’s at a point in her life where she’s gone through a very devastating breakup, which is something I, in years past, have gone through in my life. She’s really searching for clarity and just trying to find an anchor in her life again. And there is also this mysterious side about her job, which I don’t want to give away, but she’s delivering paperwork to Switzerland, and it is something of great importance.

I could relate to here. I’ve certainly had times in my life where I felt a little lost. And I was in a transition in my life with relationships and work. I think everyone goes through that. But there was a lot about her that I hadn’t seen in characters I had played before. And I liked that she’s in a situation where things are completely out of control, and she’s starting to feel like she’s going completely insane. At the same time, she has to be the sanest character in the film because she’s driving the story. So, it was definitely a challenge.

CE: How was the shoot? Pretty fast-paced?

LC: Yes, the movie was shot rather quickly. We were shooting like eight pages, 10 pages a day. You just have to be really prepared. For me, the hardest part is doing the work beforehand, really laying out the scripts, so when we jump from the first scene to the last scene, I know exactly what’s happened in between. It was very fast-paced.

CE: How was the cast and crew to work with?

LC: It’s like a family. The director (Richard Gabai), the director of photography and most of the crew were people who I had worked with about a year and a half ago on another Lifetime movie called “Imaginary Friend.” So, we all have a shorthand with each other, which makes everything go faster and have a good time. You’re working all hours of the night, and when you are with people you enjoy hanging around with and chatting with, it always makes for a better experience. The cast was wonderful. Drew Seeley is a sweetheart. I got to work with my friend Amy Davidson a couple of days. She’s a real-life friend of mine, and she plays my friend in the film. It was just great fun.

CE: That must have been a big deciding factor in taking the role.

LC: Exactly. I love watching Lifetime movies. I’m a big fan of the network. With “Non-Stop,” I liked the story, I liked the cast and crew — there really wasn’t much else to think about.

CE: You have a Hallmark Channel movie coming up called “The Color of Rain,” which is a great departure from “Non-Stop.” What can you tell me about that movie?

LC: “The Color of Rain” is based on a book by Michael and Gina Spehn. It’s their story of finding each other and finding love, and the blending of their families after they both suffered the awful tragedy of losing their spouse to cancer. That was a very special experience for me because I got to actually meet Gina and speak with her and spend time with her.

When you’re playing someone who’s real and you’re telling her story, there’s such a great responsibility to do it justice and to make her proud. They were just the loveliest people, and they were so happy to be on set. They are just so inspirational — their strength and the way that they are so open about their story; you can ask them anything. And they just want to help other people. They have this beautiful foundation where they help other families who have been affected by cancer. They’re just lovely people. It was a wonderful experience.

CE: Doing a 180, I see that you are also in a horror movie coming up called “The Lost Tree.” Tell me about that.

LC: I worked with my friend Thomas Ian Nicholas on that. He and I were on “Party of Five” together, like 15 years ago. He called me up and asked me to be a part of “The Lost Tree.” It was really fun to work on. It’s more of a classic horror movie. It’s fun to do things that are different, especially when you can do different genres of projects back to back.

CE: Speaking of different genres, I loved you in “Mean Girls” and would love to see you in a comedy again soon. Would you be up for that?

LC: Absolutely. “Mean Girls” was one of the greatest working experiences I’ve ever had. I’m so honored to be in the movie. It’s really nice that 10 years later people still quote the movie. I feel like it’s almost had a second life. It’s something I’ll always be grateful to have experienced. It was a really special time in my life for a lot of reasons — working with Tina Fey and Mark Waters and all of the cast, it was just a very special experience. The 10th anniversary is coming up. I wish the cast would get together or something.

CE: I’d love to see a “Mean Girls” reunion. Let’s make that happen!

LC: People keep asking, “Are you guys going to do a reunion, or are you going to do a sequel?” I don’t have any say in that part, but I think we’ll all definitely get together to celebrate. I’m still really, really good friends with Jonathan Bennett, who played Aaron Samuels. He’s a dear friend of mine. I see him often. So, you never know!

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Q and A: Week of Nov. 18

Q: A few months back, you ran an interview about Scott Wolf, and it got me to wondering what his fellow “Party of Five” alum Lacey Chabert is up to now. — Janet L., Minneapolis

A: Lacey, who played the second youngest of the Salinger children on the hit ’90s nighttime drama, stars in the Lifetime Movie Network original movie “Non-Stop,” which premieres Friday, Nov. 29, at 8 p.m. ET/PT. Lacey plays an executive assistant on a nighttime flight to Zurich who strikes up a romantic encounter with a handsome stranger seated next to her. When she later wakes from a nap, she finds that her bag with her ID, cellphone and laptop are missing — as is the mysterious stranger.

Lacey told me she was delighted to play a different character from what her fans are used to seeing: “My character is at a point in her life when she’s gone through a very devastating breakup. She’s really searching for clarity and just trying to find an anchor in her life again. And there is also this mysterious side about her job, and throughout the story, you start to find out what that is.”

“I really could empathize with her. I’ve certainly had times in my life where I felt a little lost — I could relate to that part of the character. But there was a lot about her that I hadn’t seen in characters I’ve played before. I like that she’s in a situation where things are completely out of control, and she’s starting to feel like she’s going completely insane. At the same time, she has to be the sanest character in the film because she’s driving the story. It was definitely a challenge.”

Come back next week to read my entire interview with Lacey, where we talk about “Non-Stop,” future projects, and the possibility of a “Mean Girls” reunion.

Q: Will “The Client List” return for another season, especially now that Jennifer Love Hewitt is pregnant? — Nina L., via email

A: Lifetime has officially canceled the racy nighttime drama after two seasons. Word has it that Jennifer and the execs were at a standoff over how to handle her real-life pregnancy within the show’s story line.

Q: I recently caught the encore airing of History’s “The Bible” miniseries, and it made me wonder if there will be more new episodes of the series. — Jackie W., via email

A: NBC recently acquired the rights for the sequel to “The Bible,” called “A.D.: Beyond the Bible,” currently in development. There also is a two-hour theatrical version of the miniseries in the works focusing on the life of Jesus through his Resurrection. The film, called “Son of God,” premieres Feb. 29, 2014.

Q: Is Drew Barrymore expecting again? Didn’t she just have a baby? — DeeDee P. in Georgia

A: Drew did indeed give birth to daughter Olive in September 2012, stating at the time that she wanted another baby, and soon. She got her wish, as Drew is now pregnant with baby No. 2, and is due late spring/early summer 2014.

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Interview: Aiden Turner Is The Perfect Boyfriend

Aiden Turner

When soap fans last saw Aiden Turner, his “All My Children” character, Aidan Devane, was being carted away to prison. While we’re used to seeing Aiden as a good guy — until those last few months on “AMC” when his character got the “soap treatment” and turned bad — his character in the new Lifetime Movie Network thriller “The Perfect Boyfriend” (airing July 5 at 8 p.m. ET/PT) is anything but perfect. I spoke with Aiden recently about his new role, and the chance to sink his teeth into a really bad-guy role.

Celebrity Extra: What was is about this movie, and the role of Jacob, that made you want to be a part of this project?

Aiden Turner: I’ve always played the good guy. I’ve never played a bad guy, I suppose, until the end of “All My Children.” The movie was originally called “Deceit,” but they changed it because of so many other movies called “Deceit” over the past five to 10 years. So now, it being “The Perfect Boyfriend,” it has a very innocent movie title, but then when you watch it, you see that it’s one guy who is very deceitful. It was a very interesting role, and I thought it would be very enjoyable to play. It seemed like a very good script that I could definitely handle and do something different with.

CE: Tell me about working with the cast.

AT: Jen (Jennifer Taylor, “Quinn”) is very professional, and she’s just a delight to work with on-camera and off-camera behind the scenes. She’s very funny and witty. And she’s adorable. She’s very generous as well. She’s a generous actress on the screen. She’s always there. She knows her lines. She’s always prepared, and she takes risks. So, she’s enjoyable to work with.

And then Ashley Scott (“April”), well, she’s done movie after movie after movie. She’s very experienced and very good-looking, but she has a powerful energy. She definitely got my attention on-screen, and she’s a pleasure to look at and to work with. And there were some love scenes. It was the second day of shooting when we did them. We didn’t even have time to really get to know one another. We were thrown into the deep end, but she’s a professional.

Aiden and Jennifer Taylor

CE: With the seriousness of the movie, I hope you were able to have some fun between shots.

AT: Yeah, absolutely. When the cameras weren’t rolling, we were laughing and joking around. There were some days that were 14, 15 hours long, so you need to sort of laugh just to help you get through the day.

CE: What was your reaction when you heard that Prospect Park was resurrecting “All My Children” and “One Life to Live”?

AT: I’m excited for the fans, mainly, and I knew it was a long, hard road for a couple of the producers involved from ABC who also lost their jobs. When it aired on ABC, it had a 2 million to 3 million viewership, and to let that go to earn more profit, it let the fans down. It’s kind of sad. Now that it’s back online, that is very exciting. That first week, it was the No. 1 show downloaded on the Internet, so that made me very happy.

CE: Would you reprise your role of Aidan Devane if you were asked? I think he’s about due to be sprung from prison.

AT: Absolutely. Whether on “All My Children” or “General Hospital” — you know that Finola Hughes is Aidan’s aunt, Anna Devane, on “GH.” Being on one of those shows, or even both, I would definitely be interested. It was so much fun — a big part of my life.

CE: Tell me about the cookbook you were working on last time we spoke. What kinds of foods and recipes will it cover?

AT: Foods from back home in England. Really healthy stuff for breakfast, healthy stuff for dinner. Also a section of food that’s easy to cook that you can cook in under 10 minutes. It will contain recipes to make decent cocktails, summer cocktails or for different events and things like that. And also different kinds of shakes — health shakes and smoothie shakes that you can have for a healthy snack that contain all great nutrients, which not only keep you alive but give you energy and whiten your eyes and just make you feel better every day.

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Interview: Jamie Luner Is The Perfect Boss

I know Jamie Luner best for her years on “Melrose Place” as the once-sweet but soon conniving and vicious Lexi Sterling. She got her start on the 1980s sitcom “Just the Ten of Us,” which I loved as a kid. Since then, she’s been on “Growing Pains,” “All My Children,” “The Profiler,” “CSI: Miami,” “NCIS,” “Supernatural” and a ton of other things. This weekend, she stars in the Lifetime Movie Network’s original movie “The Perfect Boss” (which premieres May 24 at 8 p.m. ET/PT and re-airs throughout the weekend). Jamie plays cutthroat pharmaceutical exec Jessica Slade, who will do anything to be a success. I spoke with Jamie about her role, and about her time on “Melrose.”

Celebrity Extra: After watching this movie, I can say that is definitely Crazytown, but in a good way — so much danger, backstabbing and intrigue. What were some things about it that appealed to you that made you want to play the role?

Jamie Luner: (Laughs) Crazytown — I love that. And it’s true! I’ve been playing lots of roles that were away from that sort of powerhouse woman, and it was really refreshing to get back to that. I have been playing moms and teachers a lot, and I think variety is good. I really appreciated Jessica’s strength — and also it’s just fun to play the bad girl. It was also a treat to get to work with Linden Ashby again. You know, he and I played husband and wife on “Melrose Place.” That was nostalgic and really nice and comfortable to be able to work with him there.

CE: Was it just like old times working with him again?

JL: It was wonderful to see him again. It had been a long time. We were quite tickled to work together again. We met a couple of days before we started shooting to go over the script, but it took us a day just to catch up and chat. There was definitely an air of familiarity there, which is wonderful, because when you do these projects, so often they happen so quickly and you have to build a backstory, but we actually had history. We do work very well together. We have a lot of trust in each other, and we know how the other works. It was a treat for both of us.

CE: We find out Jessica had a tough childhood with an alcoholic mother and abusive stepfather. How did that play a role in who she became as an adult?

JL: When you’re a child, there is so much that goes on that you subconsciously work from. And whatever she had gone through — it can either debilitate or catapult you in any direction. She used her past to catapult her into getting away from that world. She got her validation from being successful in business, since she never got it from love. I don’t think her actions come from vindictiveness. It is just pure survival.

CE: You filmed this in Canada, right? How was the filming experience?

JL: We filmed in Ottawa, the capital. It took about three and a half weeks. This was my second time shooting with the Lifetime Movie Network in Ottawa. It’s a magical town. It is so beautiful, and the cross-culture of the European and French-Canadian is so pleasant. I love listening to French, and I just love Canadians. I find them to be some of the sweetest people. Everything was blooming, and the food is wonderful.

CE: I know you best as Lexi on “Melrose Place.” Do you get recognized for that the most out of all the roles you’ve played?

JL: Yes, I do. I’m so fortunate to have been on such iconic shows that are so memorable. That time was such a chapter in all of our lives — television was so different than it is today. It was such an impactful show on so many people. I get a little nostalgic about it, and I’m definitely recognized for it by a lot of people who have enjoyed it.

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Q and A: Week of March 11

Eric McCormack

Q: One of my favorite actors is Eric McCormack. I loved him in “Will and Grace,” and I really love his new show, “Perception.” Can I see him in anything else while I wait for “Perception” to return? — Giovanni W., via e-mail

A: The multifaceted actor can next be seen on the Lifetime Original Movie “Romeo Killer: The Chris Porco Story,” which airs Saturday, March 23 at 8 p.m. ET/PT. It’s inspired by the true story of a handsome young college student who became the prime suspect in the shocking murder of his father and disfigurement of his mother in a savage ax attack. Eric portrays Detective Joe Sullivan, the lead investigator on the case, who goes on a mission to prove Chris’ guilt.

In “Perception” news, Scott Wolf, of “Party of Five” and “V” fame, has signed on to be a recurring character as an assistant U.S. attorney. He has a hidden agenda that involves his soon-to-be ex-wife, Kate, played by Rachel Leigh Cook. Look for 13 new episodes of “Perception” to begin airing this summer.

Q: I am absolutely gutted by the ending of season three of “Downton Abbey,” and I can’t wait for season four. Can you recommend anything for me in the meantime? — Jen S. in California

A: Well, if you’re looking for another high-quality period piece to take your mind of the heartbreaking fate of Matthew Crawley, then may I recommend another Masterpiece series? “Mr. Selfridge,” which premieres March 31, stars Jeremy Piven as a wheeling, dealing, womanizing American who teaches early-1900s Londoners how to shop. The eight-part series centers on the real-life story of the flamboyant and visionary founder of the London department store Selfridge’s.

Q: What has “Lost” star Josh Holloway been up to? Will he be on another series soon? — Nora S., Savannah, Ga.

A: Josh was cast as the lead in a pilot for CBS called “Intelligence.” The action takes place at U.S. Cyber Command, and focuses on a unit that has been created around one agent (Gabriel Black, played by Josh) with a very special gift: A microchip has been implanted in his brain that allows him to access the entire electromagnetic spectrum.

Josh also co-stars in the dramatic thriller “Paranoia,” which also stars Harrison Ford, Liam Hemsworth and Gary Oldman. It will be released in October. Also, in January 2014, look for Josh in the Arnold Schwarzenegger action movie “Ten,” which also stars Sam Worthington and Joe Manganiello.

Q: My husband and I recently watched a new series called “Do No Harm” on NBC; however, we haven’t been able to find it on the TV schedule. Has it been canceled? — Laura K., via e-mail

A: The medical drama, which premiered Feb. 1, was indeed canceled after two episodes. “Do No Harm” was the lowest-rated, in-season broadcast scripted series debut in modern history. The second episode declined even further, sealing the show’s fate.

Kevin Sorbo

Q: Kevin Sorbo has always been one of my favorite actors, ever since “Hercules.” I loved seeing him earlier this season on “Don’t Trust the B—- in Apt. 23.” What has been up to since? Any chance we’ll see him in a comedy again soon? — Sherri P., via e-mail

A: On March 23 at 8/7c, you can catch Kevin in the Hallmark Movie Channel’s “Shadow on the Mesa,” which also stars Wes Brown (“Deception”), Gail O’Grady (“NYPD Blue”) and Meredith Baxter (“Family Ties”). The movie takes place in the Old West, and Kevin plays rancher Ray Eastman, who is trying to protect his property from a land grab by a corrupt neighbor.

I asked Kevin if he’d like to do another comedy, and he told me: “I would love to. I’ve done a lot of guest spots ‘Dharma and Greg,’ ‘Two and a Half Men,’ ‘Just Shoot Me’ … all those different things. I did have my own sitcom back in 2005. It was a half-hour comedy called ‘Bobby Cannon,’ where I played an end-of-the-year quarterback for the Chicago Bears.

“It tested No. 1 for ABC, but then the then-president of ABC decided not to pick it up. To this day we are shocked. There’s no doubt in my mind we’d be in our eighth season right now. Oh well … welcome to the business of Hollywood.” Read my full interview with this charming and talented man here.

Q: Isn’t it about time for a new “Dancing With the Stars”? — Gina W., Columbus, Ohio

A: It sure is, Gina. And this year has your usual crop of actors, singers and athletes, all of whom are ready to heat up the dance floor beginning Saturday, March 16, at 8 p.m. EDT with a two-hour premiere. The 16th season of the hit dancing-competition show stars country singer Wynonna Judd, gymnast Aly Raisman, skater Dorothy Hamill, boxer Victor Ortiz, football player Jacoby Jones, reality star Lisa Vanderpump, country singer Kellie Pickler, comedian D.L. Hugley, comedian Andy Dick, soap-opera star Ingo Rademacher and Disney star Zendaya Coleman. **This just in: "Bachelor" star Sean Lowe will also be competing for the coveted disco-ball trophy.**

Q: Has CBS canceled “Vegas”? Visually and stylistically, it’s different from the usual cop programs on TV, and it’s a joy to watch. — Marcia A. in New York

A: While CBS hasn’t canceled the Dennis Quaid/Michael Chiklis drama as of this writing, things aren’t looking good for it. The ratings aren’t as high as CBS expects from its dramas, especially one that’s so expensive to produce, and CBS downgraded its episode order from 22 to 21. “Vegas” returns with new episodes on Tuesday, March 19, after a month-long hiatus.

Q: Did you ever find out if “The Witches of East End” is going to be a regular series on Lifetime? — Callie D., via e-mail

A: Lifetime recently announced that it did indeed pick up “Witches” for a 10-episode run to launch later this year. The drama stars Julia Ormond, Jenna Dewan-Tatum and Rachel Boston. As soon as I get a firm date, I’ll let you know.

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Q and A: Week of Nov. 8

Q: I think I’ve missed a couple of episodes of “Lone Star” on Fox. Is it coming back on? — Mike M., Newark, Ohio


Q: I fell in love with the ABC summer series “The Gates.” Do you have any idea if it will be brought back, maybe as a midseason replacement? I really need to know what happens! — Karen D. in Virginia

A: “Lone Star” was the first casualty of the fall 2010 season. Despite rave reviews and being the critics’ darling, low ratings forced Fox to pull the series after only two episodes.


And the same fate seems to have befallen the summer series “The Gates” (which was one of my favorite shows of the year) and “Scoundrels.” On Oct. 15, “The Gates” star Frank Grillo (pictured) tweeted: “Don’t shoot the messenger … “The Gates” is officially canceled. I knew my source was right. Thanks to all of you for supporting us.”

As of this writing, ABC’s “My Generation” and NBC’s “Outlaw” (starring Jimmy Smits) also are kaput. One the cusp of cancellation — however, they still could be saved — are “Undercovers” and “Running Wilde.”

Q: Last season on “The Mentalist,” there was an actor on one of the episodes playing the role of a billionaire who really resembles Kevin Spacey. Who is he, and what else can I see him in? — Jay F., via e-mail

A: You’re thinking of 43-year-old Canadian actor Currie Graham. Most recently he co-starred with Jaime Pressly in “Smoke Screen,” a made-for-TV movie based on the Sandra Brown novel. The movie premieres Sunday night, Nov. 21, on the Lifetime Movie Network.

Q: Sean Murray of “NCIS” sure has lost a lot of weight. Is he ill or on some sort of a diet? — Mrs. G., Venice, Fla.

A: Sean, who turns 33 on Nov. 15, explained via his Twitter account that his weight loss came from “14 months of no alcohol and almost no sugar. Ate strictly organic. … You can actually see me gradually lose the weight over the 24 (episodes) of Season 7; a pound every week or two.”

Q: I enjoy watching classic black-and-white movies on television. What does “RKO” stand for in the RKO Pictures logo? — Tashi G., Dearborn, Mich.

A: RKO stands for “Radio-Keith-Orpheum.” RKO was formed after the Keith-Albee-Orpheum (KAO) theater chains brought together under the control of the Radio Corporation of America (RCA) back in 1928.

READERS: A few weeks back, a reader asked when TNT’s “Men of a Certain Age” would be back for its second season, and I answered that it would be Nov. 29. The network has since pushed that date back to Monday, Dec. 6, so re-mark your calendars!

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David Charvet Is The Perfect Teacher

David Charvet is well known to fans as a hunky lifeguard on “Baywatch,” but he stretched his fan base even further when he went on to star on the nighttime soap “Melrose Place.” Since then, he has been busy with his music career, being a father to his four kids (with fiancee Brooke Burke) as well as fitting in a movie here and there when his schedule permits. His latest movie is the Lifetime Movie Network thriller “The Perfect Teacher” (which airs Sept. 12 at 8 p.m. ET), where David stars as a good-looking young teacher who becomes the object of desire for one misguided student.

Celebrity Extra: Tell me a bit about the movie and your role in it.

David Charvet: “The Perfect Teacher” is about an actual story that happened with a student and a math teacher. This is kind of an issue that happens a lot nowadays, where younger women, high-school girls, fall in love with their teachers. For me, it was kind of interesting to play a teacher, because I have never played one before. After having four children, I also wanted to play a father. So, for me, those two elements were really more interesting to explore as an actor.

CE: How could you relate to your character, Jim?

DC: Being a father is something I can really relate to and really wanted to play. The other thing was, he’s a good guy. He loves his family and he’ll do anything for his kid. He’s a hard worker and he has a lot of passion for life. I can really relate to that. I have a lot of passion for life and I really love to do everything at 100 percent. That’s the kind of character he was.

(Photo Credit: Albert Camicioli/Lifetime Movie Network)

CE: As a father of daughters, was it difficult for you to play a teacher who becomes the object of a young girl’s affection and fantasies?

DC: Funny enough, that was kind of the hardest thing for me for this role, to actually be able to justify that when this girl is coming on to me that I don’t completely see it. Obviously, Jim knew that she was kind of flirtatious, but that it wasn’t really going anywhere, especially with my girlfriend also being one of her teachers. I think that he’s figured it all out kind of toward the end. Sometimes I think that guys are like that. Guys aren’t always figuring things out right away, and it takes them a little bit of time, especially in the woman department. He honestly felt that she was a girl who was a little lost herself.

CE: How was it to work with Megan Park (“The Secret Life of an American Teenager”)?

DC: Megan did a great job on this. I have to say that it probably was not the easiest role in the world, and I think she did really well. I actually saw the movie a couple of weeks ago, and I thought she played it right. Sometimes you can play this so over the top, and she didn’t do that. She kept it real. I think we all tried to keep it as true as possible and make it as real as possible, that if these circumstances really did happen we wouldn’t look like we were completely out there.

CE: What is the lesson learned from this movie?

DC: The biggest message is what can happen to somebody who is actually trying to do his job and be a good teacher. This is happening in schools today, so we are just kind of portraying a story that could possibly happen. I think it’s important for people out there, especially young kids, to realize that they could actually ruin someone’s life when their schemes get out of hand.

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Interview: Kim Raver Breaks the Silence

If you plan to watch the Lifetime original movie, Bond of Silence, tonight at 9 p.m. ET/PT, be sure to have a box of tissues handy. This movie, which is based on real-life events that happened to Katy McIntosh and her family, is a real tearjerker — but not in a sentimental or gluttonous way. Its message of love and forgiveness is sure to melt the iciest of hearts.


Kim Raver, of Grey's Anatomy and Lipstick Jungle fame, portrays Katy McIntosh, as the young wife and mother whose husband mysteriously dies while trying to quell a wild teenage house party on New Year’s Eve. Searching for answers about her husband’s death, the teens and their protective parents keep a shroud of secrecy to prevent her from finding out the truth. With the help of a local detective (Greg Grunberg, Heroes and Alias) she tries to break up the bond and uncover the secrets behind what really happened. (All photos credit: Sergei Bachlakov/Lifetime Television)

Celebrity Extra: What was your first reaction when you read the script and you learned about what happened and the character that you were going to be playing?

Kim Raver: It was devastating and moving and shocking all at the same time. And being a mother, I thought, do I even want to go there? And as an actress, to go through all of that stuff. And at the same time you think, wow this is a great opportunity. And I think also because it was a real story I was moved. And then you’re kind of weighing whether this is a project I want to do. I’m on such a short hiatus. And actually the director sent me Katy’s book. I was really moved by this whole experience. But what motivated me was her forgiveness. Which made me think, wow, this woman is a very interesting woman. How would I handle it if I were walking in her shoes? So that is what led me to do this project.

CE: Katy is such a strong woman — unbelievably strong. What were some other things about her that you could really relate to and that made you really want to do it?

KR: Well, I’m shooting Grey’s Anatomy for 10-and-a-half months out of the year, and there is this small window to find something else that you really want to take that time to do. And this project sort of came along and fit in that time frame. I don’t know, I related to the story of how she was going to move on from this with two children. I was reading the book and it was talking about how she was able to function after this tragedy, for her children. And I thought whether it’s this tragedy or that tragedy or some other life thing for other people, we can relate to that. Her need to know what happened is a very powerful thing about how she went about who she is. I just thought she was a very complicated, interesting, multilayered woman, and I liked that.

CE: You got the chance to meet her in real life. What is she like?

KR: She’s very powerful. She came to one of the rehearsals and the first moment we met … it was just really powerful. She’s a very special woman and to really know all of these personal details after reading her book and then getting to meet her. It was a special time. There are certain people that affect you in your life, and her story is a really interesting story. And I mean, yes, there is a lesson in the drinking and the partying and the responsibility. Maybe because I have kids, it’s interesting in the sense that it reminds people that actions have consequences. But it was bigger for me than that. It was more about the journey of this woman.

CE: When I was reading the In Touch article that Lifetime's PR department sent along, I couldn’t understand how Katy could befriend her husband’s killer. But after seeing the movie, I could understand.

KR: For me, one of the things that’s interesting is, I may have an idea of what I think forgiveness is, but I’m not sure how I would handle that. But after watching this and having that example of someone who was able to take her pain and turn it into a kind of gift, was an amazing illumination on forgiveness. And I find that really interesting. This movie can stimulate conversation and to have people discuss the notion of forgiveness and what we think we could handle and what we don’t.

CE: Your character goes through hell. How does she keep it all going and keep herself together?

KR: That was a real challenge for me, in the script. How in real life it took five years and you could understand that journey, and when it was compressed into six months for the movie, it was really difficult. There is just so much coming at her, that you just kind of handle it and you find a way.


What do we do when we’re hit with a crisis moment? Who do we become, and I think that is an interesting question to ask. She had her children; that helped her. And I think that it was also a defense mechanism of the trying to control everything. I’m talking about the character that I play. I don’t know if that’s true about the real Katy. But with my Katy, I have to go on for my children; I have to go on and keep everything neat and organized and together, that was her way of functioning. When I talked to the real Katy, she said she was able to — as devastating and as painful as it was — make it a gift. And I think that that’s true in my life. There are moments that I find devastating or painful, and hopefully I’ll come out on the other side and find it as a gift.

CE: With such heavy material to play, how was the vibe on the set?

KR: Thank God for Greg Grunberg. I kind of just dove into the role, because it’s a great opportunity. But then it became whatever-number day I had to be in this really dark, horrible place. I kind of like to stay where I’m at, but I couldn’t really do that in this role. It was just too dark and too painful. And Greg has an incredible sense of humor. He’s got a great work ethic, so he got it. Like when things were rolling and we had to go, we went and we were there. But in between — he’s just a sheer joy. He’s hysterically funny. And it was really good for our crew. We had an incredibly dedicated and hardworking crew. We worked some long, long hours. So the set vibe was strangely funny. It was the only way to get through this really heavy, real life drama.

CE: I had a feeling you would say that about Greg, because I thought he would be the one to help keep it light for you guys.

KR: He did. There were a couple times when we couldn’t keep it together because we were laughing so hard while we were shooting it. And you really need that when you’re dealing with this kind of material. Otherwise it’s just a long time of darkness.

CE: My last question is about Grey’s Anatomy: Can you give me any hints as to what we can expect from the coming season?

KR: I can’t give much, as you know, or I’ll lose my job (laughter). But I will say I’m pretty sure that everything can and will always change. I’m pretty sure that the triangle with Teddy, Owen and Kristina is done. And while I’m sad for Teddy because it’s really hard for her, I’m just happy as a fan. The Owen and Kristina story has so much more to explore. And I think that that’s great. I’m glad not to continue the love triangle, because otherwise it would have become redundant. It was a great way to establish Teddy. And so in the first couple episodes you may actually see Teddy kind of having something romantic with a new person. She’s gonna try.

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Interview: Natasha Henstridge Will Save Us All!

It's up to Natasha Henstridge to save our country's capital — well, for a movie, anyway. Natasha stars as Special Agent Margaret Lucas, an FBI agent tasked with finding a deranged serial killer who’s left dozens dead and only a ransom note demanding $20 million or more people will die. The movie is called The Devil’s Teardrop, and it based on the book by best-selling author Jeffery Deaver (whose book The Bone Collector made it to the big screen starring Denzel Washington and Angelina Jolie). The Devil's Teardrop airs on the Lifetime Movie Network on Sunday, Aug. 8 at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

I caught up with Natasha recently to discuss the movie, as well as her upcoming appearance on Drop Dead Diva and her breakout role in 1995's Species.

Celebrity Extra: I watched the movie over the weekend, and what I liked best was that your character, Special Agent Margaret Lucas is tough, but she’s a real person underneath. She’s not a two-dimension hard-ass type character; you can really see her levels. Was that one of the things that drew you to this project and this character?

Natasha Henstridge: That was definitely one of the appealing things about playing that character. I mean, I read it and she was compassionate and human, and also strong and ballsy. I’m really glad that came across. So, was the movie okay? Was it fun to watch? Entertaining?

CE: Oh yes, it was everything. Although I thought they should have released it around Fourth of July weekend, what with all the action in the movie taking place around then.

NH: I know. Initially in the book, in Jeffery Deaver’s book it was actually New Year’s Eve. And they switched it to the Fourth of July, and I can’t quite remember why that was, but they did make that switch.

CE: Speaking of Jeffery Deaver, had you read any of his books prior to this?

NH: I’d never read any of his books to be honest with you. It’s terrible to say, but I’ve never even seen The Bone Collector. I’ve heard good things about it. And people that I mention the book to or talk to about it just really, really respond to him as a writer. And I thought, we’ll that’s a good sign. You know, people who have nothing to gain at all by saying they really liked his work were impressed with him. In fact I was working with my acting coach on it and she said, “Wait a second, I know this book! I know this story!” And it was really helpful, because she really liked the book and knew the story. He’s got a lot of fans, Jeffery Deaver. He’s definitely got a huge fan base, which is great.

CE: When you got this part, did you read the book the story was based on, or did you want to go into it without preconceptions?

NH: Often times I think that is a better option because you’re not necessarily, when you have the information at hand in the script you’re going to be performing, you’re sort of better off using what’s on that page as opposed to when they adapt it from a screenplay to a book. They are making changes, so if you get too attached to the book ... We could say that, or we could say it was just laziness and getting hired at the last minute as well. Whatever you want to with is fine… (laughter).

CE: How did you train for this? Did you get weapons’ training, work with real FBI agents?

NH: I’ve done stuff before so I had some concept, but those things change all the time, you know. The rules and the way to clear rooms and the way they communicate to each other. There were people there to give us advice on guns, a couple of cops nearby that we spoke to. Also, Tom Everett Scott is on a show called Southland and he plays a police officer in that, so he had some good advice to give.

CE: You all looked good holding your guns — while I was watching, I wasn’t think, “Oh, how cute – look at those actors holding guns!”

NH: That is such a nice compliment, because there were cops actually on the set that were hired to keep the location secure. And then there were some that were gun trainee’s and they said, “Gosh, you really are comfortable with a gun, and you really know what you’re doing.” So, it was really a compliment. Because often times, you’re a girl and people are looking for you to fail or not to look as natural coming from you. And I feel like it’s such a great compliment when people believe it and buy it.

CE: A really compelling aspect of this scenario is how possible this is — stuff like this could really happen!

NH: When you have a story like this it’s always gripping when there’s a time element to the story, and you’re trying to solve a case to save other people’s lives and to prevent any further attacks. So, I thought that was really gripping, but more than anything, whenever you have stories like that, what makes it most interesting is the human being behind the cop. She had an amazing story because she’s lost her son and her husband, and she put everything into her work and sort of had a one-track mind. And through the show she comes full circle back to life, to real life. 

And for Tom’s character, it was sort of the opposite. I mean, he went from being nothing but a professional and focusing entirely on his career to pulling out of the FBI altogether and focusing completely on his children. And I thought it was a neat thing to see. It’s an unusual character to be written for a male, I thought that was nice to show that other side as well. The contrast of those two characters and where they were coming from and where they were going, I thought that was really interesting.

CE: And you mentioned that just now of her husband and her son dying in the plane crash, I was heartbroken when she revealed that. What was your reaction when you read that part and had to play that scene?

NH: It’s amazing. When you read things like that, if you have any sort of feelings at all, you’re going to have a reaction and compassion. It definitely makes you feel something. And the other side of that is what you draw and what techniques you use as an actor. It can be painful to do scenes like that, which is always a challenge because it’s where you put yourself. What are you falling back on, what are you depending on? It’s sad. And to play it sad takes energy, and then you want to do justice, you don’t just want to slip over it like nothing. Because you want to do justice for anyone who’s ever been through anything remotely like that. So, it’s a lot of pressure in that way as well.

CE: And even though this is a serial killer thriller, there is also a great message of love and family. Was that an appealing aspect for you?

NH: It was. Like I said, it’s showing that human side to every situation. You’ve got this great story that you’re trying to figure out and unravel as the movie goes on. And then of course, the very human aspect of what was happening as well was appealing.

CE: How was the cast to work with, especially Tom Everett Scott?

NH: Tom was amazing. Real kidder, real lovely guy. Doesn’t’ take himself too seriously and really good at what he does. I thought he was perfectly cast to play this role, of a man who cares more about protecting his children and making sure they’re completely secure in their lives — even over his own job. And I think that’s a rare thing to find in a script for men. He was a really great choice for that. He was lovely. Lovely to work with, really sweet, really funny. Great guy!

CE: Now I know you have done a lot of work in Hollywood, but you are definitely best known to a lot of fans for your breakout role in Species. How does it feel to know you’ve created such an iconic memory for a generation of fans?

NH: It’s such a compliment. I do feel this sense that I’m disappointing people when they now meet me and it’s been 15 years and they go, “Oh, you’re that girl from Species — you don’t really look like that anymore… (laughter)” No. It’s cool. I guess, it really made an impact, because no matter where I go in the world, people remember that film. It’s amazing. It’s amazing that only through time do you realize the impact that a film had on someone. That it was this classic moment and really impacted people and such. It’s amazing that as time goes on and the more and more people you meet, that they still remember certain moments or certain scenes from a film. It’s great.

CE: Now you have an upcoming appearance on Drop Dead Diva (Aug. 29)— can you tell me about your role?

NH: Well I go in, in what seems to be “Natasha” fashion, and get to stir up some trouble over there. I play Claire Harrison, who is the partner of the law firm with J Parker. J Parker and Claire have some history, and I get to cause some trouble, both businesswise and personally.

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