In the conclusion of this revealing two-part conversation, host Tony Miros continues his candid & wide-ranging chat with former ’80s TV heartthrob Douglas Barr, diving deeper into his most beloved roles & his evolution from actor to writer & director. Doug shares the story behind landing the role of Colonel Bill Stillfield, Charlene Frazier’s charming boyfriend (and later husband) on “Designing Women,” thanks in part to his connection with producer Larry Thompson that he met while he was working on “The Fall Guy.” He reflects on how much fun the show was, how quickly he adjusted from single-camera action series to a multi-camera sitcom, and what a dream it was to work with Jean Smart, along with Dixie Carter, Annie Potts, Delta Burke, & the rest of the iconic cast.

Doug also offers behind-the-scenes gems, including a fun story involving a luncheon with then-unknown Bill and Hillary Clinton, flying through the air as a trapeze artist on “Circus of the Stars” , and why he was more than ready to fully embrace comedy after years of being told to “tone it down” on “The Fall Guy.” He fondly recalls working with legendary guest stars like Dolly Parton, Alice Ghostley, and Hal Holbrook, and shares why he believes “Designing Women” continues to resonate with audiences decades later. 

The conversation then turns to Doug’s successful transition behind the camera. He explains how writing an episode of “The Wizard” helped him join the WGA, open doors as a screenwriter, & ultimately convince producers to trust him as a director. From directing Olympia Dukakis in “Dead Badge” & Patty Duke in “Love Lessons,” and helming multiple Hallmark hits including “The Note,” Doug reflects on the lessons he learned—and the importance of leadership on set. He also shares how life eventually led him away from Hollywood & into Napa Valley, where he spent 22 years running a winery before serving on the board of the Saint Helena Forum, supporting creativity & innovation in his community.

DOUGLAS BARR

Born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Douglas Barr began his collegiate studies at the University of N Colorado during the turbulent 1960s before transferring to George Washington University, where he experienced the Vietnam War protests firsthand. He graduated in 1972 with a bachelor’s degree in philosophy and soon found himself in New York and London working as a model—an industry he says he “accidentally fell into.” It was during this time that he met his future wife, Clare Kirkconnell.

That modeling career led Barr to acting, and in the early 1980s he relocated to Los Angeles, quickly landing high-profile television roles. He is best known for his five-season run as Howie Munson on the hit action series “The Fall Guy,” alongside Lee Majors, and for his popular recurring role as Colonel Bill Stillfield on “Designing Women,” where he played Charlene Frazier’s boyfriend and later husband. He also starred as Alex Jagger on CBS’s “The Wizard” and made numerous guest appearances on iconic series including “The Love Boat,” “Fantasy Island,” “Hotel,” and “Murder, She Wrote.”

As his career evolved, Barr shifted his focus to writing & directing, helming more than 30 films since the mid-1990s. His move behind the camera coincided with a move to Napa Valley, where he and his wife founded Hollywood and Vine Cellars, a boutique winery they ran for many years. Now retired from both filmmaking & winemaking, Doug serves on the board of the Saint Helena Forum, an educational nonprofit dedicated to fostering creativity and innovation throughout Napa Valley.

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Music by⁠⁠ ⁠⁠QubeSounds⁠⁠⁠ ⁠from ⁠⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠⁠⁠

In Part 1 of this lively two-part conversation, host Tony Miros sits down with former ’80s TV heartthrob Douglas Barr for a fascinating look at a life defined by reinvention. From athlete to model, television star to writer, director, and winemaker, Barr reflects on the many chapters that shaped his extraordinary journey. He shares stories from growing up in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, where he was a competitive swimmer and sports enthusiast, as well as his early creative interests, globe-trotting adventures, philosophical studies at The George Washington University, and how a spontaneous trip to Europe unexpectedly launched an international modeling career.

That modeling success ultimately led Barr to acting—despite never having the “acting bug”—inspired by idols like Cary Grant and Roy Rogers, both of whom he later met. After early TV roles, his big break came in 1981 as Howie Munson, the charming, comedic sidekick on ABC’s hit series “The Fall Guy.” Barr opens up about working alongside Lee Majors, who became both mentor and friend, teaching him the unspoken rules of life on set. He fondly recalls the show’s tongue-in-cheek tone, the real stunts (and real injuries), the near-misses, and unforgettable moments working with legendary guests like James Coburn, Eddie Albert, and even astronaut Buzz Aldrin.

Barr also reflects honestly on fame—the pressure, the self-absorption required to survive it, and the thick skin needed to last. He shares his gratitude for the fans who have followed his career for decades, his enduring friendships with Lee Majors and Heather Thomas, and even offers thoughts on the recent “Fall Guy” movie starring Ryan Gosling. It’s a revealing, funny, and thoughtful conversation about success, survival, and knowing when it’s time to move on—and you’ll want to hear every minute.

DOUGLAS BARR

Born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Douglas Barr began his collegiate studies at the University of Northern Colorado during the turbulent 1960s before transferring to The George Washington University, where he experienced the Vietnam War protests firsthand. He graduated in 1972 with a bachelor’s degree in philosophy and soon found himself in New York and London working as a model—an industry he says he “accidentally fell into.” It was during this time that he met his future wife, Clare Kirkconnell.

That modeling career led Barr to acting, and in the early 1980s he relocated to Los Angeles, quickly landing high-profile television roles. He is best known for his five-season run as Howie Munson on the hit action series “The Fall Guy,” alongside Lee Majors, and for his popular recurring role as Colonel Bill Stillfield on “Designing Women,” where he played Charlene Frazier’s boyfriend and later husband. He also starred as Alex Jagger on CBS’s “The Wizard” and made numerous guest appearances on iconic series including “The Love Boat,” “Fantasy Island,” “Hotel,” and “Murder, She Wrote.”

As his career evolved, Barr shifted his focus to writing and directing, helming more than 30 films since the mid-1990s and working with acclaimed actors such as Louis Gossett Jr., Rosanna Arquette, Bradley Whitford, and Olympia Dukakis. His move behind the camera coincided with a move to Napa Valley, where he and his wife founded Hollywood and Vine Cellars, a boutique winery they ran for many years. Now retired from both filmmaking and winemaking, Doug serves on the board of the Saint Helena Forum, an educational nonprofit dedicated to fostering creativity and innovation throughout Napa Valley.

Saint Helena Forum - https://www.shforum.org

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In the conclusion of their two-part conversation, host Tony Miros continues the ride with Michael Nouri as they explore the fascinating chapters of his career after Flashdance. Michael reflects on projects like The Image Maker and working with legends like Jerry Orbach, Farley Granger, Colleen Dewhurst, and Farrah Fawcett, sharing heartfelt admiration and a few laugh-out-loud behind-the-scenes stories (including one involving a jealous boyfriend hiding in the bushes!).

From sci-fi cult favorite The Hidden—where he bonded with Kyle MacLachlan during endless night shoots and later celebrated a surprise French award—to sitcom territory on Diane English’s Love & War, Michael opens up about embracing new genres, steady work, and the cast camaraderie he deeply missed when the show ended. He also talks about romantic leading-man roles, why fans still approach him decades later, and how the idea of writing a memoir keeps calling his name.

Michael’s stories only get better as he recalls working with screen icons like Sean Connery (Finding Forrester), Steven Spielberg, Catherine Zeta-Jones, and Tom Hanks (The Terminal), and Queen Latifah (Last Holiday). From an unforgettable (and slightly mortifying) Sean Connery impersonation gone wrong to sipping absinthe in Prague’s legendary Hotel Pupp, these tales are packed with humor, heart, and Hollywood magic.

The episode also dives into Michael’s love of playing villains, working on dark TV series (Damages, Manhunt: Unabomber, American Crime Story, The Watcher), his admiration for creators like Ryan Murphy, and the powerful sense of family that forms on set. He shares advice for aspiring actors—commit fully, do theater, build discipline, and have fun—before closing on one of the most meaningful moments of his life: starring opposite Julie Andrews in Victor/Victoria on Broadway, a career highlight that finally made his father say he was proud. 

MICHAEL NOURI

Michael Nouri is now in his fifth decade as a celebrated actor in film, television, and theater, with a career defined by range, longevity, and reinvention. In recent years, he has co-produced & starred in The Squeeze, appeared in NBC’s acclaimed miniseries The Slap, & guest-starred on hit series including Blue Bloods, Heartbeat, and Yellowstone. His notable recent screen work also includes Manhunt: Unabomber, Woman Walks Ahead, and The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story, sharing the screen with some of today’s most respected talent.

His professional journey began with the box-office hit Goodbye Columbus (1969), followed quickly by a major Broadway debut in 40 Carats opposite Julie Harris. Over the years, he has become a familiar & trusted presence in Hollywood, balancing leading roles with memorable character performances.

On film, he is perhaps best known to audiences worldwide as the leading man in the iconic hit Flashdance. His film credits also include The Proposal with Sandra Bullock, Last Holiday with Queen Latifah, Steven Spielberg’s The Terminal with Catherine Zeta-Jones, & Finding Forrester opposite Sean Connery. He received the Best Actor Award at the Avoriaz Film Festival for his performance in the cult classic The Hidden.

Television has been another cornerstone of Nouri’s career, with appearances on acclaimed series such as Damages, The West Wing, Law & Order: SVU, NCIS, CSI: NY, Criminal Intent, & The Practice. He held major recurring roles on Bay City Blues, Love and War, The O.C., All My Children, The Young and the Restless, and Brothers and Sisters.

Michael Nouri’s Website – ⁠https://www.michaelnouri.com/⁠ 

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Music by⁠⁠ ⁠⁠QubeSounds⁠⁠⁠ ⁠from ⁠⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠⁠⁠

In Part 1 of this lively two-part conversation, host Tony Miros sits down with the endlessly charming Michael Nouri, forever etched in pop culture history as Nick Hurley in the smash 1980s hit Flashdance. Michael laughs about how—more than 40 years later—fans still stop him to talk about the film (those once-swooning teenagers are now grandmothers!), and he fondly recalls working with director Adrian Lyne on what became a global phenomenon. None of them could have predicted just how big the movie would become.

Michael traces his journey back to Washington, D.C., where early trips to the theater sparked the acting bug. A high school production of Gilbert & Sullivan’s Trial by Jury revealed his love for singing and musical theater. After college, he headed to NYC. With no formal acting training, he landed Forty Carats on Broadway opposite Julie Harris —launching a whirlwind career that included a Daytime Emmy Nom for Search for Tomorrow .

From playing Dracula on Cliffhangers to portraying Lucky Luciano in The Gangster Chronicles, Michael’s career surged through TV & film, fueled by deep research & a Universal Studios contract that kept him busy (& paid). After projects like The Last Convertible & an Off-Broadway return to NYC, he found himself at a crossroads—choosing between Sam Peckinpah’s The Osterman Weekend and a little movie called Flashdance. He followed his instincts, and the rest is movie history.

Michael shares unforgettable memories from filming Flashdance with a nervous but excited 17-year-old Jennifer Beals, the electric premiere with cheering audiences & standing ovations, and watching fans line up to buy the iconic soundtrack. Overnight stardom followed—first-class travel, autograph lines, and major directors like William Friedkin & Stephen Bochco knocking at his door. This episode is packed with fun behind-the-scenes stories, career-defining moments, and pure Hollywood nostalgia. 

MICHAEL NOURI

Michael Nouri is now in his fifth decade as a celebrated actor in film, television, and theater, with a career defined by range, longevity, and reinvention. In recent years, he has co-produced & starred in The Squeeze, appeared in NBC’s acclaimed miniseries The Slap, & guest-starred on hit series including Blue Bloods, Heartbeat, and Yellowstone. His notable recent screen work also includes Manhunt: Unabomber, Woman Walks Ahead, and The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story, sharing the screen with some of today’s most respected talent.

His professional journey began with the box-office hit Goodbye Columbus (1969), followed quickly by a major Broadway debut in 40 Carats opposite Julie Harris. Over the years, he has become a familiar & trusted presence in Hollywood, balancing leading roles with memorable character performances.

On film, he is perhaps best known to audiences worldwide as the leading man in the iconic hit Flashdance. His film credits also include The Proposal with Sandra Bullock, Last Holiday with Queen Latifah, Steven Spielberg’s The Terminal with Catherine Zeta-Jones, & Finding Forrester opposite Sean Connery. He received the Best Actor Award at the Avoriaz Film Festival for his performance in the cult classic The Hidden.

Television has been another cornerstone of Nouri’s career, with appearances on acclaimed series such as Damages, The West Wing, Law & Order: SVU, NCIS, CSI: NY, Criminal Intent, & The Practice. He held major recurring roles on Bay City Blues, Love and War, The O.C., All My Children, The Young and the Restless, and Brothers and Sisters.

Michael Nouri’s Website – https://www.michaelnouri.com/ 

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In the sparkling conclusion of their two-part conversation, host Tony Miros and 90-year-old Hollywood legend Ruta Lee dive deeper into her remarkable career and her most unforgettable television moments. Ruta revisits her iconic “Twilight Zone” episode “A Short Drink From a Certain Fountain,” sharing memories of co-star Patrick O’Neal, her joy in playing such a wicked character, and her warm admiration for Rod Serling. She also reflects on her time on “The Lucy Show”—how she and Lucille Ball became friends, the precision required for four-camera comedy, and her admiration for Lucy’s ability to run a studio by day and conquer Broadway by night.

Tony highlights fun revelations from her memoir, including her audition for the role of Ginger on “Gilligan’s Island”. Ruta fondly recalls guest-starring on “Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C.” and “The Andy Griffith Show,” where Andy would serenade the cast between takes with his guitar. She shares behind-the-scenes stories from “The Hollywood Squares,” filming five episodes a day with host Peter Marshall, and the risqué ad-lib that left the studio blushing. Ruta continues with hilarious memories from “Three’s Company,” her fondness for John Ritter, and her time on “Mork & Mindy,” where Robin Williams dazzled her with his lightning-fast genius. She also discusses her appearance on “Roseanne” and her absolute joy serving as a guest judge on “RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars,” where she fell in love with the contestants and affectionately calls RuPaul “delicious.”

In the final portion of their chat, Ruta opens up about her lifelong devotion to The Thalians, the charitable organization she has championed for fifty years. She explains how the group built a mental-health clinic, expanded veteran support through UCLA, and honored luminaries such as Frank Sinatra, Lucille Ball, Whoopi Goldberg, and—after two decades of asking—Clint Eastwood. For listeners eager to get involved, Ruta encourages donations or attendance at this year’s Thalians Gala on December 6th at the Bel-Air Country Club, honoring the legendary Neil Sedaka. Check the Notes below for ticket information.

RUTA LEE

Ruta Lee rose from the stages of Hollywood High School to become one of the most recognizable actresses and dancers of her era. After moving to Los Angeles in 1948, she studied acting and soon landed roles on The George Burns and Gracie Allen Show, The Roy Rogers Show, and The Adventures of Superman.

Her big break came in 1953 when she was cast as one of the brides in the beloved MGM musical Seven Brides for Seven Brothers. From there, she built an impressive film résumé that included Anything Goes, Funny Face, Witness for the Prosecution, Marjorie Morningstar, and Sergeants 3, where she starred alongside the Rat Pack. She also made her mark on television with memorable appearances on Alfred Hitchcock Presents, Gunsmoke, 77 Sunset Strip, and 2 episodes of The Andy Griffith Show.

Ruta continued to shine, including her standout Twilight Zone appearance in “A Short Drink from a Certain Fountain,” and her semi-regular turns on game shows like Hollywood Squares, and High Rollers, where she co-hosted with Alex Trebek. Her later decades showcased her versatility—from voice work, to guest roles on Fantasy Island, The Love Boat, CHiPs, and Roseanne, where she played the girlfriend of Estelle Parsons’ character. She also starred opposite Elizabeth Taylor in Sweet Bird of Youth and appeared in the British comedy-drama Funny Bones as Jerry Lewis’s on-screen wife.

Ruta Lee Website - https://www.rutalee.com 

The Thalians Holiday Gala  - http://www.thalians.org 

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Music by⁠⁠ ⁠QubeSounds⁠⁠⁠ from ⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠⁠

In Part 1 of this energetic two-episode conversation, host Tony Miros sits down with the dazzling Ruta Lee—actress, dancer, Hollywood legend, and author of the delightfully titled memoir “Consider Your Ass Kissed!” Ruta dives into her decades-long career, from her breakout in the MGM classic “Seven Brides for Seven Brothers” to her days co-hosting “High Rollers” with her dear friend Alex Trebek. She shares favorite behind-the-scenes stories from her memoir, reflecting on Trebek’s wicked humor, pitch-perfect accents, and why game shows let her be her most authentic self.

Ruta also sweeps listeners into her glamorous Hollywood upbringing—from Hollywood High School and Laurel Canyon to her early job as an usherette at Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, where she once admired stars like Betty Grable and Mitzi Gaynor long before befriending them. She tells Tony the hilarious tale of getting fired from Grauman’s & the full-circle magic of later receiving her Hollywood Walk of Fame star right in front of the box office. From her first acting gig on “The George Burns and Gracie Allen Show” to her near-mishap on “The Adventures of Superman”, Ruta explains how professionalism, preparation, & passion kept her working nonstop.

Her journey through “Seven Brides for Seven Brothers” is packed with joyful recollections—dancing for choreographer Michael Kidd, working with Stanley Donen, touring the country to promote the film, and even having her name changed to “Ruta Lee”… except in the credits, where her original Lithuanian name remained, a “mistake” that later helped her rescue her grandmother from Russia. And in true Ruta fashion, she caps it all with sparkling memories of Howard Keel, Russ Tamblyn, Leslie Caron, Audrey Hepburn, Fred Astaire, Frank Sinatra, and the Rat Pack—including her unforgettable experience filming “Sergeants 3,” attending Frank’s birthday bash for Dean Martin, meeting Marilyn Monroe, & revealing the one legendary star she wishes she had worked with.

RUTA LEE

Ruta Lee rose from the stages of Hollywood High School to become one of the most recognizable actresses and dancers of her era. After moving to L.A. in 1948, she studied acting at Los Angeles City College and UCLA while working at Grauman’s Chinese Theatre as a cashier, usherette, and candy girl—until a missing $40 abruptly ended her job. But Hollywood had bigger plans: she soon landed roles on The George Burns & Gracie Allen Show, The Roy Rogers Show, & The Adventures of Superman.

Her big break came when she was cast as one of the brides in the beloved MGM musical Seven Brides for Seven Brothers. From there, she built an impressive film résumé that included Anything Goes, Funny Face, Witness for the Prosecution, Marjorie Morningstar, and Sergeants 3, where she starred alongside the Rat Pack. She also made her mark on TV with memorable appearances on Alfred Hitchcock Presents, Gunsmoke,,The Wild Wild West, & 2 episodes of The Andy Griffith Show.

Ruta continued to shine through her standout Twilight Zone appearance in “A Short Drink from a Certain Fountain,” and her semi-regular turns on game shows like Hollywood Squares, What’s My Line?, and High Rollers, where she co-hosted with Alex Trebek. Her later decades showcased her versatility—from voice work on The Flintstone Comedy Show to guest roles on Fantasy Island, The Love Boat, and Roseanne. She also starred opposite Elizabeth Taylor in Sweet Bird of Youth and appeared in the British comedy-drama Funny Bones as Jerry Lewis’s on-screen wife.

Ruta Lee Website - https://www.rutalee.com 

The Thalians Holiday Gala  - http://www.thalians.org 

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In this powerful conclusion to their two-part conversation, host Tony Miros and actress Anne-Marie Johnson dive into the dramatic, complicated, and career-defining years she spent on “In the Heat of the Night.” She recounts her intense audition process, her memorable first meeting with Carroll O’Connor, and her surprise when she discovered who would play her TV husband Virgil Tibbs. She shares both funny & deeply personal stories about her co-star Howard Rollins—his humor, his struggles, and the challenges he faced as a gay Black man working in the Deep South during the 1980s. Determined to understand her character’s world, she even attended a Ku Klux Klan rally & immersed herself in local culture, an experience she describes with honesty & insight.

She reflects on the fame that followed and the show's fearless storytelling, including the powerful two-episode arc in which her character is assaulted. She reveals why Carroll O’Connor was initially opposed to the storyline, how the cast convinced him it needed to be told, and why she considers it her strongest work on the series. Her memories of working with Howard are touching and bittersweet, especially as she recalls his demons, their joyful on-set chemistry, and the heartbreak of losing him years later.

The conversation then shifts to her time on “Melrose Place,” where she stepped into the world of glossy, high-stakes soap drama. She shares behind-the-scenes insights about Aaron Spelling’s famously strict set, her fiery exit storyline, and the reason why her character was written off the show. She also talks about her groundbreaking work as the first African American Vice President of the Screen Actors Guild.

Finally, she opens up about what she considers the greatest work of her career—her new film “The Addiction of Hope,” written and directed by her husband.

ANNE MARIE JOHNSON

Los Angeles–born actress Anne-Marie Johnson began honing her craft early, graduating from John Marshall High School and later earning her B.A. in Acting and Theatre from UCLA. She made her first on-camera appearances as a contestant on several game shows, including “Card Sharks” and “Child’s Play,” before landing her first major role on NBC’s “Double Trouble.” Guest spots on “Diff’rent Strokes,” “Hill Street Blues,” and a 3-season run on “What’s Happening Now!!” followed, along with standout comedic turns in the cult classics “Hollywood Shuffle” and “I’m Gonna Git You Sucka.”

Johnson became widely known for her role as Althea Tibbs on the drama “In the Heat of the Night” (1988–1993), during which she also appeared in films such as “Robot Jox,” “The Five Heartbeats," and “Strictly Business.” After leaving the series, she joined the final season of “In Living Color." Her career continued with memorable roles on “Melrose Place” and “JAG,” along with guest appearances on a wide range of popular series including “Ally McBeal,” “Girlfriends,” “CSI,” “NCIS,” “Living Single,” and “Grey’s Anatomy.”

Beyond her acting accomplishments, Johnson served as First National Vice President of the Screen Actors Guild from 2005 to 2010 and continued building an impressive list of credits with roles in NBC’s “The InBetween,” OWN’s “Cherish the Day,” and ABC’s “How to Get Away with Murder.” She now stars in the powerful new film “The Addiction of Hope,” directed by her husband Martin A. Gottlieb.

Tickets For “The Addition of Hope” - https://www.laemmle.com/film/addiction-hope

Film Website - https://www.theaddictionofhopefilm.com 

Film Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theaddictionofhope/ 

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Music by⁠⁠ ⁠QubeSounds⁠⁠⁠ from ⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠⁠

In Part 1 of this lively two-episode deep dive, host Tony Miros sits down with the always captivating Anne-Marie Johnson to explore her remarkable journey from a starstruck L.A. kid to a celebrated actress with decades of iconic credits.

Anne-Marie takes us back to her days at John Marshall High School—where, yes, they were literally filming the carnival scenes of “Grease” while she was taking her class photo. Inspired by comedy giants Carol Burnett and Lucille Ball, she grew up devouring black-and-white movies and dreaming of working in films. After enrolling in UCLA’s acting program, she found herself competing on TV game shows to gain on-camera experience—and to win. And it worked: she booked her first job opposite Robert Urich, landed her SAG card, and quickly stepped into her first sitcom role on “Diff’rent Strokes”.

From there, her career took off. She shares hilarious and heartfelt stories from “Hill Street Blues” (including the night an entire watch party was ruined by a pre-emption), her three joyous years on “What’s Happening Now!!”, and her surprising mentorship under Shirley Hemphill. She opens up about the thrill of working on “Hollywood Shuffle” and the heartbreak of learning she’d been edited out of “The Five Heartbeats”—at the premiere, no less.

And then there’s the moment that changed everything: leaving “In the Heat of the Night” after six seasons—despite Carroll O’Connor’s protests—to join “In Living Color.” Anne-Marie reveals how Tommy Davidson convinced her to make the leap, what it was like shifting from drama to sketch comedy, and why working alongside Jim Carrey was both exhilarating and emotionally challenging.

ANNE MARIE JOHNSON

Los Angeles–born actress Anne-Marie Johnson began honing her craft early, graduating from John Marshall High School and later earning her B.A. in Acting and Theatre from UCLA. She made her first on-camera appearances as a contestant on several game shows, including “Card Sharks,” “Child’s Play,” and the pilot of “Body Language,” before landing her first major role as Aileen Lewis on NBC’s “Double Trouble.” Guest spots on “Diff’rent Strokes,” “Hill Street Blues,” and a three-season run as Nadine on “What’s Happening Now!!” followed, along with standout comedic turns in the cult classics “Hollywood Shuffle” and “I’m Gonna Git You Sucka.”

Johnson became widely known for her role as Althea Tibbs on the long-running drama “In the Heat of the Night” (1988–1993), during which she also appeared in films such as “Robot Jox,” “The Five Heartbeats,” “True Identity,” and “Strictly Business.” After leaving the series, she joined the final season of “In Living Color,” delivering sharp celebrity impressions of Oprah Winfrey, Mary Tyler Moore, and Whitney Houston. Her career continued with memorable roles on “Melrose Place” and “JAG,” along with guest appearances on a wide range of popular series including “Ally McBeal,” “Girlfriends,” “CSI,” “NCIS,” “Living Single,” and “Grey’s Anatomy.”

Beyond her acting accomplishments, Johnson served as First National Vice President of the Screen Actors Guild from 2005 to 2010 and continued building an impressive list of credits with roles in NBC’s “The InBetween,” OWN’s “Cherish the Day,” and ABC’s “How to Get Away with Murder.” She now stars in the powerful new film “The Addiction of Hope,” directed by her husband Martin A. Gottlieb, playing in selected theaters.

Tickets For “The Addition of Hope” - https://www.laemmle.com/film/addiction-hope

Film Website - https://www.theaddictionofhopefilm.com 

Film Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theaddictionofhope/ 

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Titles VO Talent – Cam Frierson - ⁠⁠http://camfrierson.com/voice

Music by⁠⁠ ⁠QubeSounds⁠⁠⁠ from ⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠⁠

In the thrilling conclusion of this two-part conversation, host Tony Miros continues his deep dive into the extraordinary life and career of Eric Roberts, one of Hollywood’s most enduring and versatile actors. Eric candidly opens up about his journey to sobriety—how one fateful night at a wrap party in New York introduced him to cocaine, sparking years of struggle that he ultimately overcame through the unwavering love and support of his wife. Today, he credits that love as the greatest force in his life, shaping both his personal transformation and his approach to his craft.

Reflecting on one of his most deeply personal performances in “It’s My Party,” directed by Randal Kleiser and co-starring Gregory Harrison, Eric recalls delivering a portrayal so raw and truthful it moved the entire crew. The experience, he says, was a defining moment—one that tested his emotional limits and reaffirmed his belief in the healing power of storytelling.

From “The Dark Knight” to “Inherent Vice,” Eric shares behind-the-scenes insights into working with visionary filmmakers like Christopher Nolan and Paul Thomas Anderson, his admiration for Heath Ledger’s brilliance, and the heartbreak of losing him too soon. With more than 700 screen credits—including “The Expendables,” “The Righteous Gemstones,” “Babylon,” and a reunion with Brooke Shields in “The Hot Flashes”—Eric reflects on a lifetime of embracing every opportunity, big or small, and finding gratitude in every creative challenge along the way.

ERIC ROBERTS

Eric Roberts is an Academy Award nominee & three-time Golden Globe nominee, celebrated for his unforgettable performances in “Runaway Train”, “Star 80”, and “King of the Gypsies”. Over a career spanning more than four decades, he’s appeared in more than 700 film and television projects — making him one of the most prolific English-speaking actors in the world. His acclaimed work includes “A Guide to Recognizing Your Saints”, “It’s My Party”, “La Cucaracha”, “The Dark Knight”, “Inherent Vice”,” Lovelace”, “The Specialist”, and “The Expendables.”

Born in Biloxi, Mississippi, Roberts is the son of Betty Lou Bredemus and Walter Grady Roberts, founders of the Atlanta Actors and Writers Workshop. His sisters, Julia Roberts and Lisa Roberts Gillan, also pursued acting. At 17, Eric moved to New York City to train in theater and soon began appearing on daytime television before earning his breakthrough role in “King of the Gypsies” (1978), which brought him his first Golden Globe nomination. His later roles in “Star 80” and “Runaway Train” earned him further critical acclaim, including an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor.

Roberts’ wide-ranging filmography features standout performances in “The Pope of Greenwich Village”, “Best of the Best”, “National Security”, “Inside the Rain”, and “Babylon”. On television, he’s been equally versatile, earning a Satellite Award for “Less Than Perfect” and appearing in “In Cold Blood”, “Law & Order: SVU”, “Heroes”, “The Young and the Restless”, “Suits”, “Empire”, and “The Righteous Gemstones.” He also made franchise history as the only non-UK actor to play the Master in “Doctor Who” (1996).

In 2024, Roberts joined Season 33 of Dancing with the Stars, partnered with Britt Stewart, and released his memoir “Runaway Train: Or, The Story of My Life So Far” through St. Martin’s Press, co-written with Vanity Fair contributor Sam Kashner.

Runaway Train Memoir Website - https://read.macmillan.com/lp/runaway-train-9781250275325/ 

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Titles VO Talent – Cam Frierson - ⁠⁠http://camfrierson.com/voice

Music by⁠⁠ ⁠QubeSounds⁠⁠⁠ from ⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠⁠

In the first half of this two-part conversation, host Tony Miros dives deep into the extraordinary life and career of Oscar-nominated actor Eric Roberts—a Hollywood legend with over 700 screen credits and five decades in the business. From his early years in Atlanta to chasing his dreams in the wild world of 1970s New York City, Eric’s story is filled with unforgettable moments and colorful characters. Along the way, Eric opens up about his newly released memoir Runaway Train: Or, The Story of My Life So Far, revealing the challenges of writing honestly about his past, his family, and his journey through Hollywood’s highs and lows. 

How his passion for performance began long before fame, and how his early roles in daytime soaps led to his breakout in “King of the Gypsies.” He reflects on the sudden rush of stardom and the pressures that came with it. He also opens up about the near-fatal car accident that almost ended his career, the haunting experiences that followed, and his recovery while working under the direction of the brilliant Bob Fosse on “Star 80.” The conversation captures both the vulnerability and resilience behind his performances—and the complex reality of living life in the spotlight. 

From “The Pope of Greenwich Village” to “Runaway Train,” Eric reflects on the intensity, artistry, and endurance that define his legacy. He shares how his bond with co-star Jon Voight pushed him to new creative heights and how it felt to earn an Academy Award nomination so early in his career.

ERIC ROBERTS

Eric Roberts is an Academy Award nominee and three-time Golden Globe nominee, celebrated for his unforgettable performances in Runaway Train, Star 80, and King of the Gypsies. Over a career spanning more than four decades, he’s appeared in more than 700 film and television projects — making him one of the most prolific English-speaking actors in the world. His acclaimed work includes A Guide to Recognizing Your Saints, It’s My Party, La Cucaracha, The Dark Knight, Inherent Vice, Lovelace, The Specialist, and The Expendables.

Born in Biloxi, Mississippi, Roberts is the son of Betty Lou Bredemus and Walter Grady Roberts, founders of the Atlanta Actors and Writers Workshop. His sisters, Julia Roberts and Lisa Roberts Gillan, also pursued acting. At 17, Eric moved to New York City to train in theater and soon began appearing on daytime television before earning his breakthrough role in King of the Gypsies (1978), which brought him his first Golden Globe nomination. His later roles in Star 80 and Runaway Train earned him further critical acclaim, including an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor.

Roberts’ wide-ranging filmography features standout performances in The Pope of Greenwich Village, Best of the Best, Inside the Rain, and Babylon. On television, he’s been equally versatile, earning a Satellite Award for Less Than Perfect and appearing in In Cold Blood, Law & Order: SVU, Heroes, The Young and the Restless, Suits, Empire, and The Righteous Gemstones. He also made franchise history as the only non-UK actor to play the Master in Doctor Who (1996).

In 2024, Roberts joined Season 33 of Dancing with the Stars, partnered with Britt Stewart, and released his memoir Runaway Train: Or, The Story of My Life So Far through St. Martin’s Press, co-written with Vanity Fair contributor Sam Kashner. Still in high demand, Eric Roberts continues to captivate audiences with his signature intensity, versatility, and dedication to his craft.

Runaway Train Memoir Website - https://read.macmillan.com/lp/runaway-train-9781250275325/ 

The Official Hollywood Obsessed Website - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.hollywoodobsessedthepodcast.com/ ⁠⁠ ⁠

Follow the Official Hollywood Obsessed Facebook Page – ⁠⁠⁠HOLLYWOOD OBSESSED PODCAST⁠⁠⁠ 

Follow our Instagram - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/hollywoodobsessedpodcast/⁠

Titles VO Talent – Cam Frierson - ⁠⁠http://camfrierson.com/voice

Music by⁠⁠ ⁠QubeSounds⁠⁠⁠ from ⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠⁠