Truly, Madly, Deadly_ The Unofficial True Blood Companion - Becca Wilcott [115]
When I heard Patricia Bethune (CSI, Grey’s Anatomy, Desperate Housewives) in a radio interview, I was surprised to hear how levelheaded she was in her approach to her performance and what it requires of her physically and emotionally. What follows is my chat with Patricia about playing crazy Jane:
When Jane Bodehouse initially appears, she’s quiet and understated. When we see you again, you’re a firecracker. Can you explain the evolution?
I was cast as Jane Bodehouse in a potentially recurring role. The first season was rich with the development of Sookie and Bill’s story, Sam, Jason, and their immediate worlds, and there wasn’t a place for me in the story early on. Luckily for me, the second season began the further development of another main character, Maryann, and the whole town of Bon Temps and its residents, including Jane. The viewers were first introduced to Jane at the bar after many an hour of drinking, but in the second season Jane is already shown the effects of Maryann’s presence right from the top. That enabled the writers to have Maryann bring out a side of Jane that had been stashed away for a long time.
What do you like most about Jane?
I love Jane’s courage. She’s still out there working it when a lot of women would be at home watching a Lifetime movie.
Do you pull from any influences, or even your own past performances?
Everything begins with the writing. Alan Ball and True Blood ’s writing staff are the best of storytellers. They provide plenty of seeds to grow these characters. Then the directors make sure we all stay in the same episode, at the same point in time. Their guidance is essential. But once I perform a role, I let it go and allow whatever new character that comes my way to be her own. Jane’s laugh is mine on a good day. As far as other influences, let’s just say I have enjoyed time with the locals in a variety of establishments around the world . . .
Do you have a favorite scene of Jane’s?
Of course, the scene where Jane cuts off her finger is a favorite. I also loved us all being duped by Jason and Andy when they were rescuing Sam.
Going into the show, did you have any idea that your character would become so deeply involved in the orgy scenes?
No, I didn’t. I received a call from the director to ask what I would be comfortable doing. On the set, we were all given as much privacy as could be given. I was also fortunate to work with John Billingsley, a respected professional, whom I trusted completely. And Michelle Forbes is a doll. She is a powerful actress. She respects the craft and it shows in all her roles.
How is it working with Alan Ball? His reputation for giving actors a lot of room to play is well known.
There are many worries that actors have when creating a character. When you have the opportunity to work with Alan Ball, most of them are erased. You know it will be a good story; you know the writers have a vision far past where the individual actor can see; you know you will be surprised, at times, gleeful with each turn of the story. His presence creates both calm and energy on a set.
What do you think Jane wants in this world?
A good laugh and a good lay — not necessarily in that order. Jane wants company, even if it is just for a little while.
Could you picture Jane as a vampire?
If Jane was drunk enough, I think she would consider hanging out with a vampire for an evening. But she’s not 25; becoming a vampire at her age is a long-term commitment to menopause. God help the planet if that happened!
Visit Patricia Bethune at www.patriciabethune.com.
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