Silence on Set

We spoke to the cast of AppleTV+'s new hit show, High Desert, set to premiere in a few days. We spoke to Bernadette Peters, Christine Taylor, Keir O’Donnell, Weruche Opia & Rupert Friend. First of all, we talked to the legend that is Bernadette Peters, and she was wonderful. She was funny but honest. She was excited to step into a role and show like nothing she had ever seen. Meanwhile, Christine Taylor and Keir O'Donnell joked that they play the "normal" ones in this drama/comedy. We talked about a scene with them heading into a restaurant at a table that just had us laughing. Finally, we spoke with Weruche Opia and Rupert Friend, both of which were so excited for fans to see what's to come this season, excited for the chaos they got to play, and gave a lot of propers to the legends Peters and Arquette (everyone gave props to those legends). This show is so much fun; the actors were just a delight. Enjoy!

Host: Monica Gleberman

Editor: Polina Jdanova

Social Media Graphic: Jojo

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Synopsis:

"High Desert” follows Peggy (Patricia Arquette), an on-again-off-again addict who decides to make a new start after the death of her beloved mother, with whom she lived in the small desert town of Yucca Valley, California, and makes a life-changing decision to become a private investigator.

*“High Desert” will premiere globally with three episodes on Wednesday, May 17 and new episodes premiering weekly on Wednesday thereafter, exclusively on Apple TV+, through June 21.

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We spoke with Jimmy Akingbola, Patrick Harbinson & Kate London about the latest installment of the fan favorite, The Tower. This season is called, The Tower 2: Death Message. While Akingbola spoke about what it was like preparing for this season, his character changes from last season, and the tight scripts -- we also talked to EPs Harbinson and London. (London is also responsible for the books the show is based on) in terms of how you complete an adaptation, which shots were used, and how this season looks different than season one.

We spoke with Corteon Moore (Ellis), Jamie McGuire (Smiley), and Chloe Van Landschoot (Kristi) about their character arcs this season and how the "little show that could" from season one has become one of the most-watched shows for season two on MGM+. Moore, McGuire, and Landschoot all discussed their shock from episodes that just aired and gave teasers and reactions when they read the series finale. I found myself smiling, listening to all of them give their theories and talk about what was to come. All I wanted to know is WHAT IS GOING ON! Of course, none of them could give me all the answers, but as usual, said, the more answers I look for, the more questions I will have. Enjoy listening! Don't forget we have interviewed other cast members from the show, so check out the podcast for the complete list. 

Host: Monica Gleberman

Editor: Polina Jdanova

Social Media Graphic: Jojo

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Synopsis:

The hit crime thriller The Tower is back for a brand new installment, The Tower 2: Death Message, based on the second novel in author Kate London’s best-selling series. Following the dramatic climax of season one, rookie Police Constable Lizzie Adama (Sharif) has returned to Farlow police station where she finds herself fighting to protect a mother and daughter in peril. Meanwhile, Detective Sergeant Sarah Collins (Whelan) has transferred to Homicide Command. When she is tasked with re-opening a cold case of a missing schoolgirl, her investigations take an unexpected turn, leading her to cross paths with Lizzie once again. Following Lizzie and Sarah’s antagonistic relationship, they are forced to work together for the first time. Detective Inspector Kieran Shaw (Scanlan) wants to recruit Detective Sergeant Steve Bradshaw (Akingbola) for a specialist task force, targeting a major organized crime figure, but he must convince Steve he can be trusted. This latest season promises another complex, authentic and topical crime story that will keep audiences gripped.

Season one followed Detective Sergeant Sarah Collins as she set out to uncover the truth around two grisly deaths discovered at the bottom of a residential apartment building.  The investigation led her into a dark conspiracy in which her relationship with Lizzie Adama was tested to the limits.

*The four-episode thriller is returning for a second season, with new episodes airing weekly on BritBox in North America starting May 16, 2023.

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We spoke to Ricky He and Avery Konrad about their roles in MGM+'s hit show, From. The show had a fantastic first season, and due to word of mouth, streaming, and such, the show has quickly become a fan favorite (cult-like), where everyone is obsessively trying to figure out what will happen next. Ricky He, plays Kenny Liu, who is a good man that slowly inches his way, sort of by accident, into a role of leadership. However, this season he really steps into that role, but He warns things are about to get even crazier for the group that, has already had all sorts of strange happenings, losses, and weird sightings that disappear. Meanwhile, Avery Konrad plays Sara Myers, who has always been quiet but is seen talking to herself and having creepy messages morphed onto her arm. She has begun to make decisions that could affect her existence in the town and directly affect her relationship with everyone. I joked with Konrad that I was so happy that she didn't die in season one, but Konrad got into what was going on in Sara's mind and what will happen as the season goes on and the messages get stronger. I asked Ricky and Avery, 'Alright, so what is going on in this town,' to which they both gave exciting answers, but I think even by the time this season ends, I will have more questions than answers. It was terrific speaking to Ricky and Avery, who got very invested in their characters and the phenomenon that has taken over this show. Both couldn't be more gratful for the fans and how much they love From and really want to know, WHAT IS GOING ON!

Host: Monica Gleberman

Editor: Polina Jdanova

Social Media Graphic: Jojo

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Synopsis:

From unravels the mystery of a nightmarish town that traps all those who enter. As the unwilling residents fight to keep a sense of normalcy and search for a way out, they must also survive the threats of the surrounding forest – including the terrifying creatures that come out when the sun goes down. In season two, hidden truths about the nature and terrifying origins of the town begin to emerge, even as life for its residents is plunged into chaos by the arrival of mysterious newcomers. 

*"From" has it's first season is available to watch on the MGM+ app, anywhere you access MGM+ and on Amazon Prime Video and is currently airing it's second season now available on the MGM+ app and anywhere you access MGM+

Don't forget to follow us on Twitter @SilenceonSet and Instagram @SilenceonSetPod

We sat down with Leila Gerstein (executive producer), Josh Bonzie, Alycia Debnam-Carey, West Duchovny, Jayden Elijah, Michael Park, and Betsy Brandt to discuss their latest thriller to hit on Hulu called 'Saint X.' All of the actors spoke about the importance of this show and how some of your initial judgments going into the first episode might say more about you than it does the characters you are watching. While the show is full of constant twists and turns (going back and forth from the past to the present), it also regularly addresses serious issues, including stereotypes, racism, sexuality, media attention, tragedy, and more. While the show is heavy, there are lessons to learn from it. All of the actors spoke about how they worked on their characters, who made them better, how they got through some of the more challenging scenes, and what they did to lighten the mood while on set.

Host: Monica Gleberman

Editor: Shamindri De Sayrah

Social Media Graphic: Jojo

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Synopsis:

The series, which is told via multiple timelines, explores, and upends the girl gone-missing genre as it explores how a young woman’s mysterious death during an idyllic Caribbean vacation creates a traumatic ripple effect that eventually pulls her surviving sister into a dangerous pursuit of the truth.  

The 8-episode series is adapted from Alexis Schaitkin’s novel. Leila Gerstein (Mrs. America, The Handmaid’s Tale, Hart of Dixie) wrote and will executive produce with Dee Rees (MUDBOUND) directing and executive producing the first episode. Stephen Williams (Watchmen) will also executive produce with David Levine and Zack Hayden for Anonymous Content, Aubrey Graham aka Drake, Adel “Future” Nur, and Jason Shrier for DreamCrew Entertainment (Euphoria), Alexis Schaitkin, and Steve Pearlman (Once Upon a Time). Saint X is a production of ABC Signature.  

*“Saint X” series premieres April 26 on Hulu 

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The series stars Joshua Jackson as Dan Gallagher, Lizzy Caplan as Alex Forrest, Amanda Peet as Beth Gallagher, Toby Huss as Mike Gerard, Brian Goodman as Arthur Tomlinson, Alyssa Jirrels as Ellen Gallagher, and Reno Wilson as Detective Earl Brooker -- all of which sat down to discuss what it was like working on a show that is a reimaging of the original cult classic film. One of the most intense scenes, for me, was with Jackson was the initial parol hearing to which Jackson added that was done the first day of shooting. Caplan and I discussed how she isn't playing just a "crazy" woman and how things have changed a lot since the original film was made. For the rest of the cast, they discuss what their characters are thinking with each one breaking down how their relationship started with Dan and how it ends up years later. We also spoke to the Alexandra Cunningham (“Dirty John,” “Chance”) serves as writer, showrunner and executive producer on the series alongside executive producer Kevin J. Hynes (“Perry Mason”), with whom Cunningham developed the series, and executive producers Darryl Frank (“The Americans”) and Justin Falvey (“The Americans”) for Amblin Television. All of whom went into great detail on various scenes they did as an nod to the original film and others they expanded on to create a new universe.

Host: Monica Gleberman

Editor: Polina Jdanova

Social Media Graphic: Jojo

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Synopsis:

The all-new series is a deep dive reimagining of the 1980s cultural touchstone FATAL ATTRACTION through the lens of privilege, personality disorders, family dynamics and murder. In the present day, after serving 15 years in prison for the murder of Alexandra Forrest (Lizzy Caplan), Daniel Gallagher (Joshua Jackson) is paroled with the goals of reconnecting with his family and proving his innocence. In 2008, Dan first meets Alex and his world begins to unravel after their brief affair threatens to destroy the life he’s built with his wife, Beth (Amanda Peet).

*Fatal Attraction premieres Sunday, April 30, 2023 on Paramount+

Don't forget to follow us on Twitter @SilenceonSet and Instagram @SilenceonSetPod

We spoke to Katherine McNamara shortly after announcements were made, leaving 'Walker: Independence' in limbo. Not sure if the show will be picked up or not, we went on to discuss the importance of having a show like it on the network, how much change it was doing, and the importance of being able to show a vast range of people coming together despite their differences to work towards a common goal. McNamara and I spoke about a possible Outlander and Walker: Independence crossover (I would love for it to happen, and McNamara is friends with the cast of Outlander, including its male lead, Sam Heughan). We also went over Abby's journey, how Abby could sleep with Tom, my hope that she has at least a one-night stand with Hoyt next season, and of course, where we stand regarding the show moving forward. McNamara is one of the nicest people to talk to; she has become a great friend and spent extra time with me to make sure she answered all of my questions and a rapid-fire of fan questions pulled from Twitter. She is generous, she is gorgeous inside and out, and she is a fantastic person. I am keeping my fingers crossed for a renewal or a pickup somewhere.

Host: Monica Gleberman

Editor: Shamindri De Sayrah

Social Media Graphic: Jojo

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Synopsis:

Set in the late 1800s, an origin story of the series "Walker," "Walker Independence" follows Abby Walker, an affluent and tough-minded Bostonian whose husband is murdered before her eyes while on their journey out West. Abby arrives in the town of Independence, Texas, where she encounters diverse and eclectic residents running from their pasts, chasing their dreams, and keeping their own secrets. Abby runs into Hoyt Rawlins, a slippery rogue, thief, and con artist with a dented heart of gold who quickly eyes Abby as a mark, until she turns the tables on him. In seeking justice for her husband, Abby and Hoyt soon find themselves precariously aligned, both seeking to uncover the truth about the identity of Abby's husband's killer, and vow to save Independence -- a frontier boomtown where nothing is what it seems.

*All episodes of Walker: Independence can be found for free on the CW app to stream or on HBO Max (if you have a subscription)

Don't forget to follow us on Twitter @SilenceonSet and Instagram @SilenceonSetPod

We spoke with Benny Safdie about his latest beloved film, Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret. Safdie told some great stories about his life and personal connection to the film, even though he was shocked that they thought of him for the role. Safdie, who is known for some outlandish characters in some of the other films he has been in and/or worked on, said he has never opened himself up to a role that was this similar to his life (since Safdie is a dad who lives in a dual religion household). Safdie told some great stories about how he worked on making Herb the best dad he could be, the importance of a movie like this, his happiness that it has done so well, and the importance of enjoying being a kid while you can (because let's be honest, adulting isn't fun). So, if you loved the film, you will want to listen to Safdie's fun stories about making it and even his first interaction with Kathy Bates (which includes a story about her infamous role in misery).

Host: Monica Gleberman

Editor: Shamindri De Sayrah

Social Media Graphic: Jojo

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Synopsis:

Eleven-year-old Margaret moves to a new town and starts to contemplate everything about life, friendship and adolescence. She relies on her mother, Barbara, who offers loving support, and her grandmother, Sylvia, who's coming to terms with finding happiness in the next phase of her life. Questions of identity, one's place in the world, and what brings meaning to life soon brings them closer together than ever before.

*Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret is currently in theaters nationwide.

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Katie Holmes, who directed, co-wrote with Phaedon A. Papadopoulos, and starred in 'Rare Objects' sat down with her co-stars Julia Mayorga (American Rust), Derek Luke (upcoming in Disney+ series The Crossover), and Alan Cumming (host of hit series The Traitors) to discuss the importance of never giving up, being okay not being okay, and taking things in one day at a time in their latest film. Holmes, who said the story is about friendship, also reiterated the importance of self-discovery. Adding that this project was one, she knew she had to adapt and direct. Meanwhile, Mayorga said while her character goes through a personal tragedy, she enjoyed the freedom, as an actor, to explore the character and watch her find her strength. Meanwhile, Luke and Cumming said they were happy to play characters that were emotional and flawed, with personal problems to overcome -- yet, one trait they were both particularly proud of was the way their characters were supportive of the women in the film. While all of the cast reflected on various themes in the film during the interviews, for me, the most important thing to take away was that it's okay to fall apart; we can glue ourselves back together.

Host: Monica Gleberman

Editor: Shamindri De Sayrah

Social Media Graphic: Jojo

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Synopsis:

 An adaptation of Kathleen Tessaro’s novel of the same name, Rare Objects is a story about friendship that centers around a young woman who reclaims her own sense of self through her journey of self discovery that involves a new job, new friends and healing. 

*Rare Objects opens in Theaters and is available on demand Friday, April 14th, 2023 from IFC Films.

Don't forget to follow us on Twitter @SilenceonSet and Instagram @SilenceonSetPod

Meg Donnelly is one of the most authentic people I have ever had the pleasure of sitting down and talking to. We start the conversation by getting properly into 'The Winchesters' -- her character and the cast. We talk about the storyline, her arc, and the future. During the conversation, she constantly praises her fellow castmates, crew, and writers. She downplays a lot of the skills she has infused into Mary, and I find myself continually reminding her of how good she is. After talking about the show for a while, we can't deny the fact that its predecessor Supernatural looms over us in more ways than one. So we begin to talk about what it was like working with Jensen on and off screen, seeing the Impala in person (and getting to drive it), advice Jensen gave her, celebrating Dean's birthday party, and that epic finale. We also manifested hope for a renewal of the show. While we talk, we find ourselves relating to one another in more ways than one as the conversation flows so effortlessly. After I was done recording, we both stayed on for a while, just talking about life and some fun things we can do behind the scenes for season two. It was a joy to get to know Meg on a deeper level, hear about her family, and constantly laugh together. She is a great person to know and hopefully a new friend for life. Enjoy the interview and the fan Q&As we added in at the end!

Host: Monica Gleberman

Editor: Polina Jdanova

Social Media Graphic: Jojo

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Synopsis:

A prequel to the long-running series "Supernatural," "The Winchesters" tells the epic, untold love story of how John Winchester met Mary Campbell and put it all on the line to not only save their love, but the entire world. When John returns home from fighting in Vietnam, a mysterious encounter sparks a new mission to trace his father's past. In his journey, he crosses paths with 19-year-old demon hunter Mary, who is also searching for answers after the disappearance of her own father. Together, the two join forces to uncover the hidden truths about both of their families.

*The Winchester's is available to stream for free on The CW app.

Don't forget to follow us on Twitter @SilenceonSet and Instagram @SilenceonSetPod

We spoke to Justin Johnson Cortez exclusively about all things 'Walker: Independence' and how important having a show that is real and authentic (especially when it comes to diversity, native languages, and wardrobe). Cortez went on to discuss his character, Calian, and how much he evolves over the season from being Abby's friend to ultimately becoming part of the gang trying to take down the "bad guys." Of course we also had to discuss some fun things like his costume, if he took anything from set, and his hair regime (because we are all jealous of the beautiful hair), and the shenaniganson set. Cortez also gave us some insights into some fun happening when the camera was not rolling and what he is looking forward to if the show gets renewed.

Host: Monica Gleberman

Editor: Marianna Randazzo

Social Media Graphic: Jojo

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Synopsis:

Set in the late 1800s, an origin story of the series "Walker," "Walker Independence" follows Abby Walker, an affluent and tough-minded Bostonian whose husband is murdered before her eyes while on their journey out West. Abby arrives in the town of Independence, Texas, where she encounters diverse and eclectic residents running from their pasts, chasing their dreams, and keeping their own secrets. Abby runs into Hoyt Rawlins, a slippery rogue, thief, and con artist with a dented heart of gold who quickly eyes Abby as a mark, until she turns the tables on him. In seeking justice for her husband, Abby and Hoyt soon find themselves precariously aligned, both seeking to uncover the truth about the identity of Abby's husband's killer, and vow to save Independence -- a frontier boomtown where nothing is what it seems.

*All episodes of Walker:Independence can be found for free on the CW app to stream or on HBO Max (if you have a subscription)

Don't forget to follow us on Twitter @SilenceonSet and Instagram @SilenceonSetPod