An Interview with Debra Christofferson
Originally published on Bingely and republished here on PopFuse.
From 9-1-1 to Carnivàle, Debra Christofferson has built an impressive career across film and television, bringing a wide variety of memorable characters to life. Whether she's appearing in a gripping drama, delivering comedy, or sharing the screen with some of Hollywood's biggest names, Debra has plenty of fascinating stories from her time in the entertainment industry.
You may recognise her as Sue Blevins, the call centre supervisor from 9-1-1, or from her role as Lila in HBO's Carnivàle. Her film credits include Mouse Hunt, My Favorite Martian and the remake of Salem's Lot, alongside numerous appearances in popular television series such as NCIS, Bones and The Mentalist.
I had the pleasure of interviewing Debra a couple of years ago for an earlier project, and I'm bringing that conversation to PopFuse for fellow movie and television fans to enjoy.
In this interview, Debra talks about her introduction to acting, dream projects, working alongside talented performers, her experience on 9-1-1 and Carnivàle, and the movies she loves. She also shares her enthusiasm for Star Wars, Marvel and DC, and reveals which famous figures she'd most like to meet.
Let's revisit this conversation with Debra Christofferson!
The Interview
1. What got you started acting?
I can’t remember when I didn’t want to be an actor. There’s a video my dad took when I was about a year and a half old in which I come tearing around a corner, look up at him, look down at the floor and adjust where I’m standing, as if I found “my mark.” I then look back up at my dad and pose for the camera. I always, always wanted to act.
2. What are some actors, actresses and directors you would love to work with?
I’ve been so fortunate to work with some wonderful actors and directors already. I’m a big “Star Wars” fan, and would love to work on a film or series in that Universe, no matter who was in it or directing it. I’d love to work with Mel Brooks, Steven Spielberg, Greta Gerwig, J.J. Abrams, Alfonso Cuaron, Patty Jenkins, Adam McKay, Chloe Zhao, Christopher Nolan, Steve Levitan, James Burrows, Thomas Schlamme, just to start. I’ve shared scenes with some of the best, and it would be great to also work with David Tennant, Keanu Reeves, Patrick Stewart, Idris Elba, Adam Driver, Jennifer Lawrence, Oscar Isaac, Ewan McGregor, Simon Pegg, John Cusack, Samuel L. Jackson, Jeff Bridges, Alan Tudyk, Kate Winslet, Ariana DeBose, the list goes on and on.
3. How did you get your role on 9-1-1 and what have been some challenges with this role?
Before Season 1 began airing, I auditioned to play the role of Abby’s mother. Connie Britton (who played Abby) and I are not that far apart in age, so I was surprised to be auditioning for that role. Also, her mother was supposed to be sickly and feeble, which I am neither. I was by far the youngest actor in the waiting room, so was fairly certain I would not get the part. And I was right. However, apparently my audition stuck in Executive Producer Tim Minear’s mind, because a few months later I got a call offering me the role of Call Center Supervisor Sue Blevins.
4. If Ryan Murphy asked you to be in American Horror Story (Except for your one-off role in Asylum) would you?
Of course!
5. What have been some challenges in your career and how did you overcome them?
First, I’m female. According to Variety (05/15/22), “A hefty 85% of films featured more male than female characters, the study found. Male characters outnumbered females by almost two to one, and just 31% of films featured sole female protagonists. Only 7% of films had more female than male characters, while 8% of films featured equal numbers of male and female characters.” I can’t find a study for television, but there seem to be more female roles on tv than in film. However, being a Caucasian character actor is another challenge. A lot of character roles go to people of color in the name of diversity when productions, for whatever reason, can’t or don’t cast them in lead roles.
6. When you act in a movie or TV series what’s the most rewarding part?
The most rewarding part for me is working with other actors, crew, directors, DP’s, Wardrobe, etc., forming bonds with people you work with for hours, days, weeks and sometimes months, all doing what you love – so many crafts all coming together to create art. Sometimes not great art, but the passion behind any art is the same, and is tremendously rewarding.
7. If you were asked to star in a movie for Marvel or DC would you take the opportunity?
In a heartbeat.
8. What are some of the movies you like?
In the last few years I’ve enjoyed “Yesterday,” “The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent, “Parasite,” “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood,” “Black Panther.”All time favorites include “Across the Universe,” “Almost Famous,” “Back to the Future,” “Being There,” “Big Trouble in Little China,” “Bowfinger,” “The Fabulous Baker Boys,” “Gallipoli,” “The Intouchables” (French), “Paul”…. Long, long list.
9. What is Jennifer Love Hewitt like to work with?
Jennifer is a wonderful human being and a terrific actor. She’s kind, generous and a real joy to be around. Her work ethic is impeccable and she makes the set a fun place to be while still getting the work done. We’ve become dear friends, and I think that chemistry shows in our scenes together.
10. What genre of movie and/or TV show do you enjoy working on the most?
I love comedy and don’t get to do nearly enough of it, tv or film. I also enjoy musicals, and although I’ve sung a couple of times on tv, would love to do a full musical in any medium.
11. Who are your greatest inspirations?
Carol Burnett and Mary Tyler Moore.
12. If you could go for dinner with any famous person past or present who would you choose?
Only one? ….Leonardo Da Vinci (and an interpreter).
13. Who are some of the actors and actresses you have worked with that you would love to work with again in a different project?
Jennifer Love Hewitt, Viola Davis, Jessica Lange, Regina King, Allison Tolman, Teri Polo, Kristen Wiig, Wendie Malick, Dennis Franz, Jimmy Smits, Kenneth Branagh, Kevin Kline, Jamie Foxx, Clancy Brown, Will Ferrell.
14. What was it like working on Carnivàle with great actors like Clancy Brown?
“Carnivale” was an incredible experience. First of all, it was set in the 1930’s, which is my favorite time period of the 20th century. The tale of good v. evil is always rich, so it was a dream job. I didn’t have any scenes with Clancy, as he wasn’t in the carnival storyline. However, I did get to see him on occasion in the hair and make-up trailers, and he was always lovely. We had actually both worked on another project, an MOW called “The Patron Saint of Liars” some years before, but also had no scenes together. So I’m hoping that one day we’ll work together in the same scene!
A big thank you to Debra
Thank you to Debra Christofferson for taking the time to share her experiences and insights. From her love of Star Wars to her memories of working on 9-1-1 and Carnivàle, it's been a pleasure revisiting this interview and bringing it to PopFuse.
Originally published on Bingely: An Interview with Debra Christofferson.
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