Q and A: Week of August 23

Q: I finally rented “The Cove” and was disgusted and heartbroken to witness the slaughter of those beautiful dolphins. Since the movie came out, have things gotten better over there in Japan? — Julia S., West Palm Beach, Fla.

A: I spoke with Ric O’Barry, longtime dolphin activist and subject of the award-winning documentary “The Cove.” He is sad to report that the slaughter and capture of wild dolphins still occurs, albeit on a “lesser” scale.


“The dolphin slaughter begins Sept. 1 and goes through March,” he said. “During that period last year in that the town of Taiji, the mayor and the city council implemented a no-kill policy. They were bringing dolphins in and capturing them for the dolphin swim program — the dolphin-captivity industry. But they let about 300 of them go. They still kill pilot whales, but they stopped killing bottle-nosed dolphins, probably thinking, ‘That will appease them.’ But we don’t know what’s going to happen come this Sept. 1.”

You can track Ric and his son, Lincoln’s, progress on this hot-button issue on Animal Planet’s “Blood Dolphins.” The premiere episode airs Aug. 27 (with an encore Sept. 3), and parts two and three air Sept. 10 and 17, respectively.

Q: Christopher Walken has always been a favorite of mine, and I wonder what is coming up in his future, project-wise? — Elva P., Fort Worth, Texas

A: The versatile 67-year-old actor has many big-screen movie projects in the works, including “The Irishman,” “Life’s a Beach,” “A Girl and a Gun” and “Wild Oats,” the latter of which just started filming and is a comedy co-starring Christina Ricci, Shirley MacLaine and Bill Pullman. While Christopher is an excellent dramatic actor, I love to see him cut-up in a comedy, so “Wild Oats” is one I’m especially looking forward to.

Q: I just saw Natasha Henstridge in the TV movie you recommended, “The Devil’s Teardrop,” and I really liked it. What are some other things I can see her in? — Lindsay D., via e-mail

A: Natasha told me that, while she is mulling over different projects at the moment, the next thing you can see her in is the Aug. 29 episode of Lifetime Television’s hit “Drop Dead Diva.” As Natasha explained: “I get to stir up some trouble. I play Claire Harrison, who is the partner of the law firm with J Parker — Parker & Harrison. So J Parker and Claire Harrison have some history, and I go over there and make some trouble, both businesswise and personally.”

Q: I recently watched a movie called “The Last of the Dogmen,” starring Tom Berenger, and it got me to wondering what he’s been up to lately. — Mary W., Southbury, Conn.

A: Tom can be seen on the big screen — and in 3-D — in the summer blockbuster “Inception.” (FYI: So far, this is my favorite movie of the summer.) His movie “Sinners and Saints” also is touring the festival circuit.

Q: One of my favorite reality shows is “The Real Housewives” series on Bravo. I especially love Bethenny Frankel on the New York series, and I wondered if that show and/or Bethenny would be back? — Michele M., Bel Air, Md.

A: I spoke with Bethenny recently, and she told me she has no plans to return to the “Real Housewives.” In her words: “I very highly doubt I will go back to ‘Housewives.’ I don’t see any reason or upside for that.” Besides, Bethenny is pretty busy these days as a new mom, a newlywed and promoting her “Body by Bethenny” workout DVD.

And if you are wondering how she shed all that baby weight, it’s simple: “[The weight] came off afterward, because I wasn’t extreme about dieting nor had I binged while pregnant. Just be balanced before, during and after, and treat your diet like a bank account, and you will have no issue.”

Q: I really love the addition of Lindsay Pulsipher on “True Blood,” but this makes me doubt the potential re-emergence of “FlashForward,” since Lindsay played teenaged Charlie in one of the final scenes’ flash-forwards. Should I give up on the dream of “FlashForward” being picked up by another network? — Fred J., via e-mail

A: I am sad to report that I think yes, the dream might be over. Many fans, including myself, were drawn into the exciting series and had hoped that maybe TNT or AMC would save it from extinction. When I asked Lindsay about the possibility, she wasn’t super hopeful of a “FlashForward” resurrection.


“There hasn’t been any talk of that, that I know of, unfortunately,” Lindsay tells me. “I know a lot of people really loved that show, and I think it had amazing potential to be really great next season. Unfortunately, I have not heard anything, but you never know — if another cable network wants to pick it up, that would be amazing!”

Q: What happened to the NBC drama series “Trauma”? One week it was on, the next it was gone. Will it be back? — Judy, Waverly, Ohio

A: “Trauma,” a medical drama that centers on a group of paramedics in San Francisco, was officially canceled by the network this past May due to low ratings.

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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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Q and A: Week of August 2

Q: I am so happy that season 2 of “Dark Blue” has started back up on TNT. What can we expect for the new season? — George F., via e-mail

A: Star Dylan McDermott (pictured, photo credit Richard Foreman) told me: “We looked at the first season to see what worked and what didn’t work. We decided to make the show a little lighter in tone, added more humor, and the introduction of Alex Rice as my love interest. We’ve opened it up to a wider audience. It’s still gritty and dark, but adding and making changes opened up the show a lot.” (Read my entire interview here.)

Q: I can’t believe Melina Kanakaredes is leaving my favorite show, “CSI: NY.” Who will they get to replace her? — Maggie F., Portland, Maine

A: After six years, Melina is hanging up her handcuffs, and television vet Sela Ward is stepping in to take her place. “We are delighted to have Sela joining ‘CSI: NY,’” ’showrunner’ Pam Veasey announced in July. Ward will play an “experienced investigator from Washington, D.C., whose work is driven by her empathy for the victim.”

Q: Is it true that Steve Carell is leaving “The Office”? Why? The office will be so empty without him! — David G. in Pennsylvania

A: It’s sad, but true. Everyone’s favorite worst boss will be leaving the show when his contract expires in May 2011. He explained to E! Online that he just felt it was time. But don’t worry, as Steve explains: “It certainly doesn’t mean the end of the show. I think it’s just a dynamic change, which could be a good thing, actually. Add some new life and some new energy. I see it as a positive in general for the show.”


Some good news on the casting front, though, is the return of Amy Ryan as Holly for eight episodes, as well as Melora Hardin as Jan (no word as of yet on how many episodes). I can’t wait to see how Michael handles this one!

Q: I have been a fan of Natasha Henstridge since “Species” (who could forget that role?), and really liked her on the now-canceled “Eli Stone.” What does she have coming up? — Greg D., via e-mail

A: Natasha has been pretty busy since playing Taylor Wethersby on “Eli Stone.” The beautiful blonde, who turns 36 on Aug. 15, recently starred in “You Lucky Dog” opposite Harry Hamlin (who I’ve redeveloped my crush on since watching “Clash of the Titans” again). She also starred in the film “The Perfect Student” and starred in the TV miniseries “Impact” with David James Elliott ("Scoundrels”).


You can catch her on Sunday, Aug. 8, in the Lifetime Original Movie “The Devil’s Teardrop,” a mystery/thriller based on the best-selling book by Jeffery Deaver. She plays a special agent assigned to catch a serial killer who’s on the rampage in Washington, D.C. Natasha co-stars with Tom Everett Scott ("That Thing You Do”) and Rena Sofer ("Just Shoot Me!”). Stay tuned — my full interview with Natasha is coming soon!

Q: Does Jeanne Cooper, who plays Katherine Chancellor on “The Young and The Restless,” have a son or two in show business? If so, who are they? — Janet C., Battle Creek, Mich.

A: The Grand Dame of daytime television does indeed have children who are actors: daughter Caren, son Collin and, most famous, son Corbin Bernsen (of “L.A. Law,” “Major League” and “Psych” fame). Jeanne’s husband (now deceased) was TV producer Harry Bernsen Jr. They divorced after 23 years of marriage, but reportedly remained best friends until his death in 2008. Corbin, 55, plays the recurring part of Father Todd Williams on his mom’s show, and he directed Jeanne, 81, in the films “Carpool Guy” and “Donna on Demand,” as well as many other projects.

Q: I watched “Stargate: Atlantis” from the beginning, and really like one character who wasn’t in the show for the entire run of the series. Can you give me more information on Rainbow Francks? Also, is he related to Canadian actor Don Francks? — June J., Holberg, B.C., Canada

A: Rainbow Sun Francks, 30, is indeed the son of Don Francks, as well as the brother of actress Cree Summer (who is best known for her role in “A Different World”). You can catch him this summer in the CBS police drama “The Bridge,” which airs Saturdays. He guest-stars in the ninth episode of this first season. The show, which originated in Canada, already aired his episode (titled “Never Let Me Down Again”) in April, but you might be able to catch it online or in reruns.

Q: Can you tell me if Jill from “Wipeout” is the same girl on the Mercury car commercials? — Burton L. in N.Y.

A: “Wipeout” co-host Jill Wagner is indeed known as the “Mercury Chick” for her commercial and print ads for Lincoln-Mercury (since 2005). The 31-year-old North Carolina native also has appeared on “Blade: The Series,” “Stargate: Atlantis” and “Bones.”

Q: I would love to know what my favorite ’90s star, Jason Priestley, has been up to lately. The most recent thing I’ve seen him on is “Side Order of Life.” — Trisha J., via e-mail

A: Jason, who turns 41 in August, still acts here and there, but he has really turned his attention to directing. He caught the directing bug while working on “Beverly Hills, 90210,” and has since directed shows such as “The Secret Life of the American Teenager,” “The Lake” and the new “90210.” Currently he is guest-starring on the new ABC series, “Scoundrels,” which airs Sunday nights.


I spoke with series star Leven Rambin recently (see the interview here), and she told me she was thrilled to work with Jason. “He was so fun. He just came in and really embraced it and really got the joke of the character. The character is like an ’80s washed-up TV star who is now doing a reality-hosting type of show. He came in and was such a pro, and I got along with him really well.”

Q: After Farrah Fawcett passed away, I was watching an interview with her best friend, Alana Stewart, and she mentioned their shared Texas ties. Where is she from? — Janice, Fort Worth, Texas

A: Farrah hailed from Corpus Christi, Texas, which is in the southern portion of the state along the Gulf of Mexico. Alana is from Nacogdoches, Texas, which is toward the east and closer to the Louisiana border.

Q: I absolutely adore the “Harry Potter” series and am so sad to see it come to an end. What do the stars of the series have planned for the future? — George K., Casper, Wyo.

A: I had the chance to speak with the stars when they were in Orlando for the opening of Universal Studio’s Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Daniel Radcliffe will be starring on Broadway in “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying,” and he hopes to continue to hone his singing and dancing skills. Rupert Grint is going the indie route: His new film, “Wild Target,” recently opened, and he’s in preproduction for “Eddie the Eagle.”


Tom Felton might have a bit of revenge in his future. When I asked him about his speech being interrupted at the MTV Movie Awards by Mark Wahlberg and Will Ferrell, he joked: “I just wanted to thank my mum — it took me four tries to get it out! Hopefully one day Will Ferrell will have a big lifetime acceptance speech, and I can swing down from the rafters and mess his speech up.”

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