Todd Lowe was on hand for Kristen Bauer Van Straten’s charity event for The Amanda Foundation (rescuing dogs and cats since 1976) and tore the absolute ROOF off Molly Malone’s when he and local favorites L.A. Hootenanny rounded out the night with a foot-stomping good time that included a southern fried version of Heart of Glass and what I’m guessing was a German rendition of Pixies’ “Where Is My Mind?”.

The guy is both a bonafide rockstar and a southern gent in every sense of the term. As I arrived nearly an hour early (never underestimate L.A. traffic, I always say); it was just myself, Todd and a few of the event coordinators. Todd stepped off the empty stage and made an effort to walk to the back of the room where I was setting up, extended his hand and said “Hi, I’m Todd.”; and I saw him do the same with the sound guy…which proved to me once again that there ARE still some good people in L.A.

So while I had a few moments, I asked him a couple questions!

CL – How did you get involved with tonight’s event?

TL – Kristin asked me. This is the second True Blood associated event that we’ve played; my first we played…Gary Calamar (music director, True Blood) had a show at the Echoplex called “Out For Blood” and we opened for Jace Everett and John Doe. That was with another band I play with called “Pillbilly Knights” (currently on hiatus) and we have a record out; one of our songs is getting a little bit of radio play on some of the satellite stations. Since two of the guys have had babies and the show has taken up a lot of time so the tour we had planned has gone on the backburner and we’ll get back to it. The bass player from PK is playing with us tonight.

CL – Now that your storyline with Arlene is growing, it seems like we’re seeing a lot more of Terry emotionally lately.

TL – Well, Terry has found some normalcy in his life, which is what he wants more than anything. Everything that he saw in the war; the tumultuous tempest that goes on in his head with his PTSD. Now that he has a focus on a good life with a good woman (Terry sees her NO other way) and a family that he’s moved into; this is the best blessing that could ever be for him. He lives a domestic life; he is a caretaker and a bit of a breadwinner. Now, he’s got a good job (well, a solid job) and who knows if he might not have some stuff going on on the side to make a little bit more money.

It’s been great as an actor to grow into that and see “Oh, they’re giving me a little bit more, there’s some stuff I can play other than just enigmatic and damaged; I can be supporting and loving and protective.” It’s been nice and I hope it keeps going!

CL – Okay, I GOTTA ask about the nudity and especially the orgy scenes from Season 2…how the hell did you get through those with a straight face?

TL – Well, there’s no eroticism to them at all – especially on that orgy stuff. It was 38 degrees in a canyon in Calabasas and if anything, we were “humping” together to keep warm. Hahaha!

CL – A lot of my girl and gay friends find Terry so endearing because no matter what Arlene does or says, he still loves her. Even when cousin Andy’s mean to Terry, he accepts and loves Andy all the same. So…how many marriage proposals do you get from season to season?

TL – Not as much as I’d like, haha! That’s good information to hear and hopefully if I do get into shape there’ll be a reveal…but the fan response is always nice! It’s always flattering when someone comes up to you and tells you they enjoy your work and I take the time to talk to people for a second. I feel blessed to be in this.

CL – Who did you talk to when researching effects of PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder)?

TL – I’ve talked to a few soldiers and I have some relatives that I’ve drawn off of. The interesting thing about Terry is that in the books he’s written as a Vietnam veteran and in our show, we made him from the Iraqi War. With the Vietnam veterans, there was a draft; so there was a little bit more pathos that comes with somebody who was drafted and had to go over there against their will, whereas people in the Iraqi War were enlisted men and CHOSE to enlist (enlisted men and women). I’m not saying it’s a tougher experience either way but I think Charlaine Harris wrote him as almost this sad vet, “will work for food” kind of guy, and the writing staff and me have made him a little stronger than that; he’s empowered.

CL – Speaking of Miss Charlaine, how has she reacted to your interpretation of Terry?

TL – The first time I met her, we were shooting season 1 on location outside of Shreveport (Louisiana)…it was the scene where Andy and I were on a boat and a naked Sam runs by and I’ve said “I’ve done that before”. She was in a make-up chair next to me and was getting ready to do this interview, and I said “Hi, I’m Todd. I bet you don’t know who I’m playing.” and she said “Oh, no, dear. Help me out.” I said “Well, I’m about 25-30 years younger than what you wrote, but I’m playing Terry Bellefleur” and she hadn’t known that and she said “Oh, okay” – I didn’t know how she felt about it but since then she’s come up to me and grabbed my hands and said “We all love you and you’re doing a wonderful job with the character!” and it’s nice to get that kind of blessing from the writer of the source material.

CL – Some directors will sometimes do a ‘Freaky Friday’ type of rehearsal where they’ll say “switch roles”…if that happened in an episode; who would you want to play?

TL – Well, Jason Stackhouse seems like a pretty fun role to play and Lafayette would be a lot of fun; he gets to do so much! I couldn’t do it NEAR as well as he (Nelsan Ellis) does and I don’t even want to infringe on the job that everyone else does but the funnest parts I think would be Jason or Lafayette.

CL – Why the hell does Terry let Mikey (the kid) play with that nasty old doll?

TL – (laughs) Well, it’s sturdy and that was my line – “Well, he can’t tear this thing up” and he kinda looks past those kind of things. And y’know, boys will be boys; yeah the thing looks dirty and it’s old and charming…but I think mostly because it’s sturdy and he can’t really tear the head off it.

Ready for some serious rockstar moments that helped raise nearly $5000 for The Amanda Foundation?! Check THESE out!!

The aforementioned German version of “Where Is My Mind?”:

AND…

For more info about L.A. Hootenanny, you can like them on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/lahootenanny) and follow them on Twitter (https://twitter.com/lahootenanny)

For more on Pillbilly Knights, you can pick up their album on CD Baby and like their Facebook page

https://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=102313243844

For more about The Amanda Foundation, go to their official website (http://www.amandafoundation.org) and you can also follow them on Twitter (https://twitter.com/amandafnd)

Last Thursday night at Molly Malone’s in Los Angeles, True Blood star Kristin Bauer Van Straten (a.k.a. “Pam”) hosted a charity event benefiting The Amanda Foundation (rescuing dogs and cats since 1976) and featured musical guests Abri Van Straten (husband of Kristin), Chris Pierce (fiance of Tara Buck a.k.a. “Ginger”), and L.A. Hootenanny (Todd Lowe a.k.a. “Terry” is a member).

The night went a little something like this…

Abri Van Straten took the stage first and eased me into the night of music that was to come. Gotta say, I’d not heard of him before that night and he certainly won me over; I can TOTALLY see how Kristin fell in love with this guy. He’s such an amazing singer/songwriter that when he got to a song about rainbows, the room went from rowdy to pin drop quiet …he’s THAT good.

Here he is singing the song he wrote about Kristin, titled “Monet”

And because I’m in a giving mood…here he is singing “Wild Flower”

In between sets, the adorable duo of Kristin Bauer Van Straten and Tara Buck took the stage to raffle off goodies that included signed True Blood memorabilia and fun cd box sets by Sinatra and Bob Marley!

Turning up the heat on the stage was Tara Buck’s fiance, Chris Pierce…holy BALLS, y’all. He busted out some soulful blues and when he did his rendition of “I Put a Spell on You” he did that shiz RIGHT…unfortunately I had to clear space on my iPhone and couldn’t get his set but I think this picture sums up how hot it was.

And after a final raffle and photo ops with Van Straten, Lowe, Buck AND other True Blood stars in attendance like Jim Parrack (Hoyt), Deborah Ann Woll (Jessica) and Mariana Klaveno (Lorena); the dance floor began to fill up fast in anticipation of a band I’d never heard of and (now that I’ve seen them live) will never forget: L.A. Hootenanny. Todd Lowe and crew reminded me that GOOD live music is still alive and well in Los Angeles…not to mention that his enthusiasm and smile made the crowd clap their hands, stomp their feet, and grin from ear to ear; myself included!

Look at this face and TELL me you wouldn’t have a good time with this dude around.

Here’s the crew in action singing a cover of Pixies’ “Where is My Mind?” in German!

I mean, L.A. Hootenanny had the crowd hootin and a’hollerin! It was AMAZING!!!

When the smoke cleared, nearly $5000.00 had been raised for The Amanda Foundation and although I chickened out getting pics or saying hello to them (I could kick myself for not saying hi to Jim Parrack, heh heh); I DID ask for one picture with the woman who organized it all…

Miss Kristin!

Thanks again for an AMAZING night!!!

For more information, check out the following:

The Amanda Foundation- official website | Twitter

Chris Pierce – official website | Twitter

Abri Van Straten – official website

Kristin Bauer Van Straten – official website | Twitter

Tara Buck – Twitter

L.A. Hootenanny – Facebook | Twitter

Photo Credit: JSquared Photography.

Kristin Bauer is glamouring us once again! The always stunning Kristin will be featured in Runway Magazine’s Summer 2011 Issue. In stores now.

Last October, Jessica was upgraded to a regular on True Blood and the theories have run wild regarding her implications on the show’s storyline,  American Vampire League’s agenda and most recently, her possible relationship with Bill Compton. Finally, here it comes: enjoy our chat with Jessica, but be warned, this interview contains spoilers.

TB-N: You graduated from Yale with a psychology degree, did you ever practice psychology? What drew you to acting and what was your first role?

JT: I have never done anything “professional” with my psychology degree but I do feel that my studies have helped me as an actress. Psychology is the study of mind and behaviour and as an actor you are always exploring characters – who they are, what makes them tick, how they interact with others. This is in part what drew me to acting – the opportunity to explore the psychology of human being. I am also a restless person and acting promised constant challenge and change – it’s a very engaging profession. I started out doing a lot of NYU student films and small independent films. The first job that really paid my rent was a three year gig on the Soap Opera, One Life To Live.

TB-N: Your experience in television has been very vast, you’ve been nominated for an Emmy and you’ve been in one of my favorite (cancelled!) TV shows, 1999′s Cupid with Jeremy Piven. Are there any favorite genres that you prefer? What are you watching now?

JT: I love both comedy and drama. It’s more about the character for me – is there something to sink my teeth into? I don’t watch a lot of TV- don’t seem to have the time. OF COURSE, I watch True Blood. I was also a huge fan of Big Love before it went off the air. I like Grey’s Anatomy and I watch Project Runway and Dancing With The Stars with my 8 year old  daughter. My husband and I like Real Time with Bill Maher and Curb Your Enthusiasm.

TB-N: Did you audition for the role of Nan Flanagan or another role? Can you tell us a bit about the process you went through to become Nan?

JT: I did audition for Nan. It was a pretty straight forward process. It was one audition for Alan Ball. Originally, Nan was only going to be in a few episodes and then they just kept writing her in. I feel very fortunate that she has grown into the character she is today.

TB-N: Nan has a very public-friendly persona, she is a well-spoken politician and dresses elegantly while on TV, however, off-camera we see her as some kind of dominatrix who is one of the toughest vampires we’ve seen on True Blood. How does Nan juggle her PR job role with that of vampire enforcer?

JT: I think part of what makes Nan so scary is the fact that she can flip from one persona to the other so easily. I don’t think it’s a “juggle” for her.  She doesn’t have much of a conscience. She does what she has to do to get the job done and doesn’t apologize for it. She believes in her power and her right to wield it .

TB-N: In season 1 and 2 we take Nan’s mainstreaming as gospel but in season 3 we see her true colors in the sense that she isn’t all about doing what she preaches. She says she only drinks the Tru Blood but later we see her drinking from the dancer in her limo. Is Nan an outlier in the fact that she eats people, or do you think all vampires involved with the Authority are doing it as well? Does she really believe in the public AVL cause, or as usual with vampires, she has a completely different agenda?

JT: I can’t speak for the entire AVL but I highly doubt that Nan is the only one that strays from True Blood. I think as long as it’s consensual and kept out of the public eye- it’s fine. The dancer in the limo was more than happy to engage with Nan. I do believe that Nan is sincere about wanting to mainstream vampires.

That said, it would be foolish to think that her efforts were just about making humans and vamps one big happy family. There is an “agenda” behind her agenda but that is not for me to reveal right now. Stay tuned.

TB-N: Nan is also one of the most mysterious characters in True Blood. We don’t know much about her, though she has been featured since episode 1 (on the TV at the Grabbit Kwik). Will we get to know Nan’s story better? Maybe some flashbacks or more info about her background? Are you allowed to tell us how old Nan is or where was she born?

JT: Nan is mysterious- even to me. I don’t know how old  she is or where she was born. More about Nan is revealed in season 4 but  I can’t go into detail without spoiling things for you.

TB-N: We’re not sure if you wander around the Internet and run into any True Blood speculation, but there’s a widespread theory in the wild about you and Mr. Bill Compton. Is there anything you might be able to say about Nan’s relationship with Bill without giving anything away?

JT: All I can say is that Nan and Bill have a history. Details of that history will be revealed in season 4. If I say anything more than that, I’ll get myself in trouble.

TB-N: Nan is about the only character that seems to be able to break Eric Northman’s balls. Is there some past history between them that would cause this or does Nan simply treat everyone with a steel fist?

JT: As far as i know, there is no history between Eric and Nan that justifies her attitude towards him. Honestly, i think she’s just a bitchy ball buster – she needs some lessons in personal dynamics.

TB-N: Nan probably didn’t know what a real “Vampire national disaster” looked like until she saw King Russell Edgington despining Jerry McCafferty on live TV. How do you think it’s possible to win the human public’s opinion back after such a mess?

JT: Well, I think the case needs to be made that Russell Edgington was ONE bad apple and does not represent all vampires. And of course a little glamouring here and there can’t hurt.

TB-N: Is there any special character that you’d like to see Nan interacting with?

JT: I think Jessica is a great character and Nan gets to interact with her a bit in season 4.

TB-N: Which episode or storyline in TB has been your favorite so far?

JT: I thought the Russell Edgington arc last year was fantastic.

TB-N: Our readers love hearing about what happens on the set while filming True Blood. Can you share any funny moment you’ve encountered on set?

JT: I wish i could relate some fabulous incident but i don’t have one. What I can tell you is that it’s a great group of people – cast and crew. Even when the hours get long, people are fun to be around. And let’s face it, what could be more delicious than dressing up like a vampire, fangs and all, and  running around with Eric, Bill and Sookie? Life is good.

TB-N: What would you say that fans can expect of Season 4 apart from witches and more craziness?

JT: Relationships between the characters get much more complicated and redifined. I love this season – I think there is a lot to “sink your teeth into.” You won’t be disappointed.

Jessica in Model Minority - Photo by Julia Ransom

TB-N: And finally, what’s next for Jessica Tuck? Any projects in the works?

JT: I just finished a great little independent film called Model Minority.

Model Minority will premiere in 2012 and it’s directed by Lily Mariye. Jessica will play Angie, the mother of Kayla, an underprivileged Japanese American 16 year old, who endangers her promising future as an aspiring artist when she becomes involved with a drug dealer.

Many thanks to Jessica for answering our questions and stoking our excitement for True Blood season 4! Bring it on!

Kristin Bauer will be attending the Chicago Comic and Entertainment Expo at McCormick Place this weekend. Before that, she joins Eight Forty-Eight from her home in L.A. were they chit-chat about her life on True Blood and her art. She also mentions that she’s just received script 7 and 8 of True Blood Season 4. Take a listen to the interview on WBEZ 91.5 Chicago Public Media.

Kristin Bauer Chit-Chats a bit before attending the Chicago Comic and Entertainment Expo.

image: gettyimages

"My eyes are up here ladies."

Joe Manganiello portrays Alcide Herveaux in True Blood, the werewolf construction worker who sometimes works for vampires. Alcide is presented as a man with working class values and a definite soft spot for one telepathic waitress – but he comes with baggage (don’t they all ladies?), specifically a V-addicted raging ex girlfriend.

We had the chance to ask Joe some questions a couple of days before his beloved Pittsburgh Steelers appeared in Super Bowl XLV. Joe shares his favorite workout music, his motto for living and what the gloomy donkey, Eeyore, from “Winnie the Pooh” has to do with True Blood.

TB-N: It’s hard to find a single article about you that does not mention your abs or physical attributes. Does it get old for you? What does Joe really see when he looks in the mirror?

JM: My idol as a young actor was Robert DeNiro who was famous for inhabiting his characters and transforming himself physically. I remember going to see “Cape Fear” in the theater and being shocked at how much he changed himself for the part. So often people get caught up in talking about the weight gain or weight loss with some of his earlier performances but the work was there and it was mesmerizing. With that said, Charlaine [Harris] gave a very detailed description of “Alcide” in the books and Alan Ball fleshed that out and added incredible depth and heart.  I then had the task of living up to it internally, vocally, and physically. When I look in the mirror? I see me as a little kid looking back but all grown up.

TB-N: Is there anything you think people have gotten wrong about you?

JM: I think it’s funny when reporters print things with quotations around it when I know they weren’t recording our conversation or when they print things like “Joe secretly wishes (blank).” If I secretly wish it… how come the super market tabloids know?

TB-N: How did your passion for the cameras begin? Did your football knee injury somehow change the direction you were heading?

JM: Not really. I knew in my soul that playing college sports wasn’t going to fulfill me. The truth is that I tore my MCL playing football and after months of rehab, returned for basketball season and my first game out I went to dunk and my legs got taken out and I landed and broke my elbow and had to sit out with that. I spent the next two years in high school dealing with injury after injury… when the universe has something to tell me… I find that it speaks very loudly. My high school had a TV studio and let us borrow camera equipment and I would write and direct movies for me and my friends to star in. It was my first love.

TB-N: After an expansive career in TV, and now that True Blood has made you quite famous, what’s next for Joe? In what direction would you like your path to take you?

JM: I’m currently figuring out what movie to act in over my next hiatus. I also have a project that I pitched to a studio and I have a music documentary that I want to shoot when I get time. The idea is to be a successful actor/producer.

TB-N: With all the recent media exposure, how has your life changed when out in public? What’s your favorite part of fame?

JM: The Pittsburgh Steelers invited me to come onto the field before kickoff of a recent game and lead the crowd of 62,000+ in the ceremonial “Terrible Towel wave.” That was absolutely amazing.

Sookie and Alcide

TB-N: You were already a fan of True Blood when you first auditioned for the role of Cooter. How did you celebrate when you heard that you got the much larger role of Alcide?

JM: Alcide was the part I wanted and thought I was more right for originally but I would have been happy with whatever I got. I just wanted to work on the show with the cast and with Alan Ball. The first thing I did after I heard I got the part was hit my knees and say thank you, and then I just laid there on the floor for a while and breathed. I knew my life was about to change a lot… I treated myself to a steak dinner and thought about everything I had battled through over the years to get there.

TB-N: What dragged you into True Blood as a viewer in the first place? What’s your favorite moment as a fan of True Blood?

JM: I have loved monster movies since I was a little kid so just about anything with vampires peaks my interest… that coupled with the fact that it was on HBO and spearheaded by Alan Ball… come on! Favorite moment? Any scene where Lafayette says “hooker.”

TB-N: We’ve all heard that Alexander Skarsgard is naked on-set sometimes for 8 hours and that Stephen Moyer is a jokester, can you tell us what it’s like for you on the set? Is there any on-set story that you remember fondly?

JM: I get a little of everything… a little comedy, a little romance, some fighting… I get it all with Alcide. That’s why he’s such a great character to play. I had mentioned early on to Anna that Alcide’s grumpiness was based loosely on Eeyore from “Winnie the Pooh” and about a week later she showed up on set with a stuffed Eeyore for me that she and Stephen bought at Disneyland… that was very nice. I’m the guy on set who is constantly eating… I am my own roving pack of locusts. With all of the working out and general state of concentration while working, I drink a lot of coffee and eat a ton of protein. You can always find me at the craft services table or on the truck.

TB-N: Alcide seems like such a normal bloke (besides the whole werewolf thing), so we have to ask… really, what does Alcide see in Debbie Pelt?

JM: Alcide has had to hide his abilities from people his entire life. He’s had to sacrifice a lot to stay hidden from the rest of the world. He can’t just casually date and reveal who he really is to just anyone for fear that society would find out. As a result he and most other werewolves stick to their own kind and live in secret. It’s just easier to date your own kind because they understand.

Now, with that said, werewolves are a rough crowd… finding anyone in that crowd remotely attractive is probably very rare. Also, Debbie was a different person before the V addiction. Alcide wishes she was who she was before. When we meet him he has given up on her and accepted that she isn’t coming back. He wants to have nothing to do with her but circumstances keep thrusting him into situations with her. He just wants to be left out of it and move on. He has a big heart and cares about people and especially about his own kind and sometimes he suffers the consequences because of it.

Alcide and Debbie Pelt - A missed opportunity?

TB-N: Sookie has no qualms about getting googly-eyed while talking to Alcide, even in the presence of jealous vampires. Does this make Alcide nervous or cocky?

JM: I thought a lot about the line in one of the early episodes where Eric describes werewolves as having no fear of death… if you think about it, your pet dog will bark and attack anything that is threatening no matter if that person or animal is holding a gun or if it’s 10 times bigger than it. Call it what you want but that kind of blind bravery and loyalty is the heart of Alcide.

TB-N: How does Joe react to googly-eyed girls in real life?

JM: Joe is very flattered.

TB-N: We kinda feel Alcide was introduced as a hot blooded version of Bill – dark, tormented, and a protector for Sookie. But we’ve also learned that nobody on True Blood is what they seem to be. What does Alcide hide?

JM: That is a great question for Alan Ball…

TB-N: Duly noted ;)

Alcide seems quite comfortable with shrieking women. How hormonal is Sookie going to act with Alcide and do you think he has the best chance to win her heart?

JM: That’s a funny question… she was pretty hormonal at times last season… I think this question will be answered more in depth in season 4.

TB-N: If you take Alcide out of the triangle, square, whathaveyou, do you think Bill or Eric truly love Sookie? One, both or none? Is there any true love in True Blood?

JM: Well, Alcide wasn’t in seasons 1 and 2… but things obviously weren’t exactly easy back then either… I think the show is an exploration of love and sex in its many forms. With that said… I don’t think Alcide is coming out of the equation any time soon…

Joe Manganiello at Eyecon 2010

TB-N: We hear of all the craziness involved right from the beginning of season 4. Besides crazy, is there anything else you can tell us about how season 4 will go? Pretty please?

JM: Witches…

TB-N: Wow, what a spoiler! OK Joe, I guess we’ll change the subject…

We’ve read that you traveled the world as a roadie for “Goldfinger.” You also sang backup vocals for them on the song “Wasted” on their album “Disconnection Notice.” How invested is Joe with music? Any hidden skills that you want to share? What’s in your play list lately?

JM: I love art and performers in all disciplines. I’m a huge music fan and a lot of my friends are musicians. I learned a ton about live performing from watching John Feldmann and Goldfinger play night after night. I just did some voice over stuff for the band D.R.U.G.S and their new album that’s getting ready to drop and DJ-ed an event this past fall in Santa Clara… so I’d say I’m pretty invested in music. My play list is anything that gets me through two workouts a day six days a week… Nine Inch Nails, Soundgarden, Alice in Chains, Stone Temple Pilots, Linkin Park, Pantera, Tool, metal and 90s grungy stuff basically… with the occasional breakbeat mixed in.

TB-N: How did you get involved in reading the Dragon series (Hurog Duolog: “Dragon Bones” and now “Dragon Blood” by Patricia Briggs)? When do you expect it to be released, and is there any other book out there we can look out for in the future that you might be narrating?

JM: The opportunity came completely out of the blue via the girls at Buzzy Multimedia… it’s something I’ve always wanted to do and a world I wanted to get into for a long time. The first book is available now and the second should be out pretty soon.

TB-N: Are you a TV show watcher besides True Blood? What are your favorite shows? Do you have any suggestions to help Truebies through the off-season hangover?

JM: I love MAD MEN and anything NFL Football, specifically the Steelers.

TB-N: What is your most treasured possession?

JM: My black construction boots that got me through one of the toughest gut check periods of my life.

TB-N: Does Joe Manganiello have a motto for living life?

JM: “Go big or go home.”

TB-N: What’s your guilty pleasure?

JM: The Jersey Shore

TB-N: And lastly, what is Joe Manganiello’s dream? What would it take for Joe to “have it all?”

JM: To be a great husband and a great Dad and realize all of my professional dreams… oh, and have the Steelers win Super Bowl XLV.

TB-N: Thank you so much for taking the time to answer our questions Joe. Sorry about the Super Bowl, there’s always next year.

James at True Blood's Crew Appreciation Party

James Frain made a big impression as Franklin Mott on True Blood this season … a big impression full of crazy, psychopathic, lovesick lunacy. He was so intense and so brilliant that he’s become a fan favorite and many mourned Franklin’s true death. We had an opportunity recently to ask Frain a few questions about his role as Tara’s unwanted suitor and about his other roles, getting to know a little better the awesome British actor behind Franklin Mott.

TB-N: You landed your first role in Shadowlands (1993) directed by Richard Attenborough, who discovered you when you were in your third year at the Central School of Speech and Drama in London. What was it like to begin your career with such an important film? Did that role change your life in any way?

JF: I think I was the only guy on that set who didn’t have a knighthood. Lucky break is too small a term. Shadowlands gave me my career.

TB-N: And what a great start! In that film, you worked with Anthony Hopkins, portraying a taciturn student of the British writer C.S Lewis. You also starred with him again in the film Titus (1999). What was it like working with the talented Sir Anthony Hopkins?

JF: Hopkins is one of the greats; watching the intensity of his concentration up close was inspiring. On set he’s relaxed and fun, and he’s a brilliant mimic. He’s of the work-hard-but-don’t-take-yourself-too-seriously school, and that had a big influence on me.

James Frain in The Tudors

TB-N: You are a popular face on TV, having appeared in shows like “The Closer,” “24,” “Invasion,” “Californication” …  and especially “The Tudors.” What are your favorite TV shows? What’s the show you have enjoyed acting in the most?

JF: I enjoyed all of them in different ways, but ‘The Tudors’ stands out because it was my first experience of working on a character over several years. My all time favorite TV show? HBO’s ‘The Wire.’

TB-N: And it was in The Tudors where you portrayed for the first time a subject of a sanguinare King. You magnificently brought to life again to Sir Thomas Cromwell, King Henry VIII’s councilor.  Did you enjoy being under Cromwell’s skin?

JF: I imagined how Cromwell might have seen himself; as a good man doing God’s work, and I was fascinated by the contradictions in his personality. I enjoyed putting the pieces of the puzzle together, and I appreciated how generous writer Michael Hirst was with his process.

TB-N: It’s a busy year for you. You’ve been working recently  on the much anticipated sequel to “Tron,” “Tron Legacy,” with Jeff Bridges and Olivia Wilde (releasing in Dec.). Can you tell us a bit about your character, Jarvis?

JF: Jarvis is the Chief of Secret Police within ‘Tron’ World, but he’s completely inept. He spends most of his time trying not to get killed.

18th Annual BAFTA / Wireimage

TB-N: And you are also sharing the screen with Reese Witherspoon and Robert Pattinson in the upcoming film “Water for Elephants”, where you play an elephant caretaker…

JF: Rosie the elephant is a total pro and a major scene stealer. She’s going to be a big star.

TB-N: Seems you’ve jumped from one villain to another; you play an evil billionaire in the upcoming NBC superhero drama series “The Cape.”

Is the project confirmed after filming the pilot?

JF: Not all billionaires are the of the loving kind. Peter Flemming has complicated family issues which he resolves by adopting creepy disguises and doing terrible things. Only one man can stop him (although this may take a few seasons). The Cape starts airing in January 2011.

TB-N: We’ve read that you live in Los Angeles. Being born in Leeds and raised in Essex, do you miss living and working in the UK? What are you into when not acting?

JF: When I’m not acting I like hanging out with my kids, drawing, and cooking. I get to travel to Europe a lot for work so that helps keep me connected to the UK.

TB-N: You have been a regular on the stage in the UK, appearing with the Royal Shakespeare Company and Royal Court Theatre, and now you’re a vampire on True Blood. How did your stage training prepare you for playing a psychotic, love-sick vampire?

JF: Shakespeare wrote genre (although vampire wasn’t as hip then) and his villains are complex, funny, scary, and tragic. So I guess that’s a pretty good build up to Franklin.

TB-N: Had you ever watched True Blood before you auditioned for the role of Franklin Mott?

JF: I knew it was a phenomenon but I hadn’t caught up yet, but I found it useful going in without any preconceptions. I had a couple of scenes from the first few episodes to work with. I didn’t know what was going to happen. I read with Rutina to make sure we had chemistry. We started shooting about a week later.

TB-N: While True Blood is known for its intense characters and risqué plots, Franklin Mott entered the season with a whole new whirlwind of crazy. Although he’s a villain, fans really enjoyed the character … a lot. Did you expect such an overwhelming reaction to Franklin?

JF: I didn’t anticipate about how people might react, and I had no idea what was coming. I feel very grateful for how enthusiastic the response has been.

TB-N: And you got a chance to live for yourself the fan love at Comic-Con. Was this your first experience at such a crazed event?

JF: It was my first time and I had a blast. There’s a celebratory atmosphere – people get to feel a part of the shows they love. It was cool to see people dressed as zombies and superhero’s just hanging out in San Diego’s cafe’s and bars.

TB-N: What did you like best about playing the role of Franklin Mott? What has been the biggest challenge?

JF: I liked Franklin’s sense of humor, and how he didn’t have a clue how crazy he is. The challenge was keeping all the elements in play without losing the balance. I’m still holding out for a spin off-show – I’m thinking something along the lines of ‘Flavor of Love.’

Behold my mad vamp texting skills!

TB-N: You seem to have a great sense of humor based on other interviews we’ve read. Were there any scenes when you struggled not to laugh on set?

JF: The texting scene cracked me up. The writers kept coming up with great ideas for Franklin but speed texting? That was comedy gold.

TB-N: Franklin is deliciously psychotic. Is there anything specific you do to prepare for that?

JF: Franklin doesn’t know he’s psychotic. I think he’d be upset if you told him that.

TB-N: Ok, we won’t tell him then. Let’s talk about love. You have filmed sex scenes before; how would you compare True Blood’s neck biting sex scenes to what you have done in the past?

JF: The teeth make you talk like Elmer Fudd. Not so sexy.

TB-N: Hah! We guess it takes some training to get used to it. Anyway, you didn’t look like Elmer Fudd to us. OK, we can’t resist. Those silk jammies were hot. Did you get to keep them?

JF: I’m wearing them right now.

TB-N: Sexy! Thank you James for being such a nice dude.

The beautiful, Carrie Preston

Carrie Preston is one cool chick. She acts and directs, tweets in her spare time, and is unrecognizable from role to role. She changes characters the way a chameleon changes colors, with dazzling results. We got the chance recently to ask Carrie a few questions in a True Blood News exclusive interview.

TB-News: How does all your years in theater help prepare you for filming for TV and the big screen? Can you talk about your upcoming stage-performance with your husband?

CP: For me, the theater training I got is the foundation for all of the other kinds of acting that I’ve been asked to tackle. When you are on stage, you simultaneously use your mind, your body, your voice, your focus, your collaboration with others, and most of all your stamina. Of course these are required when doing camera work, too. But it’s much more acute on stage. With the technique I learned doing plays, I feel more able to sustain all that is required of me in the fragmented world of camera work. Michael and I are doing a benefit for Charleston Stage in Charleston, SC on July 31st. We are not doing a “performance” per se, instead we are doing a benefit reading of “Love Letters” by A.R. Gurney, which entails reading/acting the play while sitting at music stands. This particular play is meant to be performed this way, it’s a good choice for the event.

Carrie as Betty, in What's Wrong With Virginia

TB-News: You worked on two films during the hiatus, A Bag of Hammers and What’s Wrong with Virginia. In both, you also play a Southern woman. Do you credit your Southern roots for playing these roles so well, and do you use real-life models for these characters?

CP: I always feel like I grew up in a place that is so particular and so full of rich history, customs and character. I have travelled all over the world, and there’s no place like the south. I feel a responsibility to give the southern women I play a depth and believability that isn’t always present in Hollywood’s portrayal of Southern women. With that said, I do understand that I am responsible for a lot of the humor of the show, so I must honor that at the same time. I don’t use specific women as reference, it’s more like a patchwork of many different women I grew up with.

TB-News: You have a production company, Daisy 3 Pictures. Do you have any projects in the works? Is it difficult to go from being an actor to  writing, directing and producing? What is more rewarding for you?

CP: Daisy 3 Pictures has produced two features and a short film. Now we are teaming up with Locomotive (Lucy Barzun Donnelly and Joshua Astrachan) to produce a screenplay written by actress Kellie Overbey, and I am hoping to be directing it soon in New York. It’s a comedy called “That’s What She Said”, which I like to call “an east village Sex and the City.” It’s the woman’s answer to all the “bromance” movies that have been ubiquitous these days. Being an actor really helps me communicate with the actors that I am directing. Also, being an actor, I get to experience and learn from many different directors.  I end up using more of my skills when directing and producing than when I’m just an actor. I love it all.

One of Daisy 3 Pictures films is,  READY? OK! (2008) available on DVD.

TB-News: Do you have any acting projects lined up for the break after Season 3 wraps?

CP: “The Good Wife” has inquired about my availability for another episode, so I’m hoping that works out. I’m also doing some workshops and readings of new plays in NYC.

TB-News: So many people have commented that Stephen Moyer is a very technical actor. You write and direct. Kristin Bauer has written a screenplay. Do you think they’ll turn over the reins to y’all anytime soon? What would you do differently if you were calling the shots for True Blood?

CP: Actually Stephen has been shadowing the episode 12 director, so maybe he’ll be lucky enough to direct some time in the future. I don’t write. I direct and produce, and of course I’d love a shot at directing an episode. But I’m happy just to be apart of the cast, of course. I have my own projects outside of True Blood that keep me busy and make me happy. I am very pleased with all of the directors that we have on the show, so I wouldn’t do anything different. I’d just hope to be able to live up to the level of expertise they have achieved.

TB-News: You’ve been involved in some big film projects over the years, and also low budget, independent films, and with some of Hollywood’s biggest name actors. How does the True Blood experience compare, with the work itself, the other actors, and the fans you meet?

CP: With True Blood, it’s a steady gig for now, and that’s rare in this business. I get the luxury of visiting the same character in different scenarios from episode to episode. So I feel like I know her better than roles I’ve played on film. We have a wonderful cast and crew, and the work flows easily. With small films, you work a lot faster and it’s over before you know it. Fans approach me for all kinds of roles that I have done over the years, lately it has been for my roles on True Blood and The Good Wife, mostly.

Arlene faces unexpected news this season

TB-News: In a lot of ways, Merlotte’s is representative of the world outside of Bon Temps – there’s a little bit of everything topical going on there. Are you mindful of the deeper implications of the show and the characters while you’re acting?

CP: No, when I’m doing the scene, I focus on the little picture. I try to stay mindful of the situation and conflicts the character is facing in that moment. I concentrate on what she wants, what’s getting in the way of that and how she’s going to get what she needs from the other person. I leave the bigger picture to the audience.

TB-News: In the books, Arlene often comes off as more of a caricature, and though she does have a lot of really funny lines on the show, you’ve given her some meaning beyond a white trash stereotype.  How much of that depth beneath the fake nails is you, and how much of that comes from Alan Ball and the writers?

CP: On the page sometimes, Arlene runs the risk of being ridiculed by the audience by coming off as a stereotypically racist, ignorant southerner. I like to find the balance between the humor and the pathos with Arlene. On the page, I get a lot of one-liners or jokes, but I try to find the truth behind them. I always try to build a three dimensional woman with responsibilities and cares and woes that are similar to the concerns of our audience. She’s grounded in the real world, which is a nice balance with the supernatural stuff going on around her.

TB-News: Arlene is not falling over herself for vampires, unlike a lot of women (and men) in Bon Temps, yet she’s obviously looking for love. Have you considered why she feels the way she does, and so strongly, about vampires?

CP: I think she expresses a much needed viewpoint on the show, which is this: Vampires might be seductive and mysterious and sexy, but they are also killers by nature, so maybe we shouldn’t trust our children with them!

TB-News: Season 2 left off with Arlene and Terry definitely starting to get somewhere. Will the new season be exploring that relationship? And, because it’s Alan Ball, can we assume that it’s not all smooth-sailing?

CP: The audience is going to see a deeper, more emotional side of Arlene this season. However, it’s not the familiar histrionics that she displayed in the first two season.  Terry is by far the sweetest and most vulnerable man Arlene has ever dated.He’s the first guy who seems willing to drop everything to make her and her kids happy, so even if he’s got some emotional issues due to the war, it seems like she wants to make things work with him. But will it always be smooth sailing? Well, that wouldn’t make for exciting television!

TB-News: You said in the past that with your blond hair, a lot of people (sometimes even other cast members) didn’t recognize you as Arlene. Now that you’ve gone red, are you more recognizable to folks?

CP: I am much more recognizable now that I’m a red head in real life. It is a relief to go to work and not have to introduce myself to people!

TB-News: Do you think Arlene is better off not knowing what went on at Maryanne’s interesting parties, or would you like Sookie to show her what went down?

CP: I don’t think anyone should have to re-live those crazy parties. And I’m sure all of the actors would say the same thing :-)

TB-News: What was your favorite scene to film on the show, and your least favorite?

CP: My favorite was probably the sequence of scenes in Merlotte’s in season 2 when I’m frazzled and unsure what went on with Terry at the party and I finally get up the nerve to talk to Terry about it. It was a really fun day on the set, and I love working with Todd. I guess my least favorite was the orgy scene in the woods, simply because it was 38 degrees in the valley on a night shoot, and we were scantily clad wearing those black contact lenses. It was pretty challenging.

TB-News: How much collaboration do you have with Audrey Fisher, the costume designer the show?  Some of Arlene’s non-Merlotte’s related wardrobe is deliciously trashy – are you involved in that process?

CP: I completely trust Audrey. She has a great eye, and in fittings, she brings so many choices that it’s sometimes impossible for me to pick. She really listens to my ideas about what Arlene would wear in any given situation, she is extremely collaborative. My Merlotte’s uniform may stay the same, but she accessorizes like crazy.

Carrie and Michael

TB-News: Now that Lost has concluded, do you and your husband Michael have any joint-projects in the works? You’ve said that he’d like a spot on the show – is that something we can look forward to anytime soon?

CP: Our latest project is our new dog, Chumley. Right now, I am just enjoying having Michael back on the mainland for a while.

TB-News: You recently started tweeting on Twitter and interacting with Arlene’s Twitter counterpart, @ArleneFowler? What’s that like? Do you write your own tweets and do you have time to read all the tweets you get from fans?

CP: I write all my own tweets, and I read all of the ones from my fans. It’s a great way to get a sense of what people think of the show and my character. It’s quite surreal reading @ArleneFowler’s tweets because they are so specific to the world of the show and to my character, as if Arlene is alive and well, even when I’m not playing her. Plus the person tweeting Arlene uses a picture of me, which makes it even more of a trip. I get a real kick out of it, @ArleneFowler is always very respectful of me as the actor.

TB-News: You kindly do many interviews – what questions do you wish people would ask you?

CP: I’m happy to answer whatever questions come my way, especially from people who are so appreciative of what we are doing on the show!

Carrie. along with her husband Michael Emerson be doing a benefit for Charleston Stage in Charleston, SC on July 31st. The performance will be done in reading style of Love Letters by A.R. Gurney. Love Letters – tells the story of a lifelong romance between Andrew Ladd and Melissa Gardner beginning when they are in elementary school and continuing as Ladd becomes a powerful United States Senator. For more information click here: Love Letters

Michael Emerson & Carrie Preston

Fans got a sneak peek of Andy Mackenzie in the number three teaser released by HBO. Mackenzie has a long list of credits under his belt from CSI to My Name is Earl and although it may look as if he can only play a Creepy Biker Dude, his acting ability is versatile. Just check out his demo reel and you will see why we quickly became Mackenzie fans.

We caught up with Andy while he was filming Burn Notice in sunny South Florida to ask him about his experience on True Blood and how he got the part of “Creepy Biker Dude.” Andy was nice enough to take a break from shooting guns from a Harley to share his experience on the set of True Blood, his vast knowledge of the industry, his band 33Degree and what’s up next in his career.

Andy Mackenzie: Oh, the “Creepy Biker.”  I actually have three different character names.  Starts with “Creepy Biker,” then “Wolf,” then shifts into “Biker” while I’m fighting with Eric.  You’ve seen some of that scene in one of the behind-the-scenes teasers.

The casting was a lot of fun.  It’s always crazy not knowing how it’s going to go and what the casting assistant is going to do when there’s action involved.  Not to mention, the room could’ve comfortably seated six but walked into eight, plus me. Read the material, did it pretty much how I wanted to do it; Alan simply replied “Fantastic.”  I left proud and pleased.

I did shoot two eps, “Beautifully Broken” (302) and “It Hurts Me Too” (303).  When I booked the role, I knew I would be showing 99 percent of my skin and I had about six weeks to hit the gym extra hard.  So, that was my life for those weeks.  Who knows if it will show?  The first ep was quick for me, not much for me to do.  Second ep was cool.  Alex and I spent some time chit chatting and reminiscing about some mutual Swedes and Finns.  We may get us all together sometime.  Between the chit chats was definitely different for me.  Stunts have been a big part of the job anyway but naked stunts are something else.  No place for pads.  “Closed set?”  Nah. I’m not shy.  Maybe Alex, since he had to … ah, never mind.  You’ll see.  But I was as naked as I was born.  No necklaces, no rings, no earrings, no nipple rings even.  Wow, I felt so blank.  When I wrapped, I couldn’t get my nipple rings in.  So I pierced them again.  That’s the third time.  And hopefully, the last.

I’ve done writing and directing.  I worked a lot on the production side.  I like to know what everybody’s job is and how hard it is.  I think it’s important.  It makes everything smoother.  I was born into the business.  I love it.  I love playing drums.  33DEGREE is a great outlet.  Since it’s more of a hobby, it’s easy to balance.  A daughter, on the other hand, is something else.  That’s my biggest balancing trick.  But my favorite trick.

I have some really cool things going on.  MacGruber just hit the theatres with Will Forte, Kristen Wiig, Ryan Phillippe, Val Kilmer.  It’s crazy funny.  I play “Hoss Bender,” one of Val Kilmer’s henchmen.  I did an episode of Burn Notice, Season 4 premiere, airing next Thursday 6/3, 9/8c.  Oh, it’s a good one for me.  I’m about to start a film, Sushi Girl, a lead role with Tony Todd, Max Perlich, James Duval, James DeBello.  Very much like Reservoir Dogs.

Andy’s final take on Season 3:

Oh man, Season 3 is gonna be so freakin’ cool.  Werewolves.  Awesome.  The fact that I am one of them.  Awesome again. I have to say, I was a big fan of the show already. Getting onto it is just too cool.

Andy is a very cool guy. He loves what he does and he loves his fans. You can follow Andy on Twitter @Andy_Mackenzie or check out any of his links below.

http://www.andymackenzie.net/

http://www.myspace.com/daddy.mack

http://www.facebook.com/#!/AndyMacke

Check out Andy Mackenzie tonight, in BURN NOTICE 4th Season Premiere, “Friends and Enemies.”

THURSDAY, JUNE 3 9/8c USA Network

And just when you start to realize that this time, the writers have really done a number on you, and nothing is like it seems, it is then when Sam Merlotte really starts to shine. Because most of us are Sam, fighting for a dream that never comes true and, yeah, hiding away from others, in more ways than one, our true nature.

Sam Merlotte’s trip through season 2 makes him an essential character in the show. After seeing him run for his life throughout the 12 episodes, to stand stoically in courageous situations that would sink most of us in misery, suffer Daphne’s  betrayal and watch him saving his town  like a true hero in the thrilling finale, you can’t help but feeling a bit Team Sam and start to wonder why he never gets the girl. Recently dear Nesters, we had the chance to chat with Sam Trammell. Come into the bar, have a drink and sit down with us.

Getty Images/Fotoglif

TB-News: You were born in New Orleans and grew up in Charleston, West Virginia. What accent do you actually use on True Blood? We have heard your interviews and you seem to have lost any signs of the South.

ST: I have lost my accent, I moved around so much as a kid. Before the show started, I made a few trips south to Louisiana and recorded people’s voices, just talking. That’s what I use.

TB-News: At what point did you realize you wanted to be an actor?

ST: I realized my second semester, senior year of college. I had never acted before then at all. A friend suggested I audition for a play. I did, was cast, and then did two more plays before the end of the year. At that point I decided to move to New York for better or for worse. You look back and go “that was kind of nuts”.

TB-News: We’ve read that you spent some time in France, at the Paris University. In what way did this time influence your life? What is your takeaway from living there?

ST: Well, I still cross my sevens and speak passable French after a few glasses of wine. It was an amazing year. I went specifically to study semiology and french philosophy and actually had the opportunity to take courses with Jacques Derrida and Julia Kristeva who are pretty much semiotic rock stars. I was lucky to be there and it was ultimately a pretty romantic year . . . walking the streets of Paris, smoking Gauloise, having little cups of coffee, pretending to be French, taking myself way too seriously.

TB-News: Your acting career began in theatre, with roles in a trio of stage performances – as a compulsive gambler in DEALER’S CHOICE, a quirky Yorkshire painter in MY NIGHT WITH REG, and a Tony-nominated performance in the lead role of the Broadway revival of Eugene O’Neill’s comedy AH WILDERNESS in 1998. What are your memories from that period? Do you miss performing live in front of the audience?

ST: That was a GREAT year. I had spent more then a few years doing regional theatre in places like Delaware, Hartford, Williamstown. You sort of have to pay your dues outside New York before they let you join the in-town club. Dealer’s Choice was my first official off-Broadway play–at The Manhattan Theatre Club. Half the cast was English and we’d actually play poker in the dressing room during the play. My character in My Night With Reg was really fun. I sort of modeled him after a Scottish character in Mike Leigh’s movie Naked. I basically stole that guy’s accent. Of course Ah Wilderness was the culmination. Richard was one of the best parts I’ve ever gotten to do. And working at Lincoln Center was about the most exciting thing ever–right by the Metropolitan Opera. So much history. I do miss theatre. It’s a fun life–performing every night, going out afterwards with friends who came to see you. It’s a real community.

Sam Trammell as Brandon in the Off Broadway revival of "Rope." / The New York Times

TB-News: We recently spotted you as being Dexter’s second victim. Dexter scares the beejesus out of us, was it fun being killed by Dexter or frightening on some level?

ST: It was definitely FUN to be killed by Dexter. Come on. Actually, I spent 4 hours wrapped in saran wrap. My arms started to go numb.

TB-News: We have seen how this season has portrayed a stronger Sam. You’ve got to carry all the weight of Maryann’s menace through the whole season. You were drawn to very difficult situations from the first episode and didn’t rest for the entire season. What have you done to the writers to be treated like that? Are they going to give you a break in Season 3 or do you think the writers have a perverse joy of putting your character in harm’s way?

ST: The writers definitely enjoy abusing Sam Merlotte. No doubt. And this year . . . well, so far maybe not as bad as last, but emotionally it’s a very tough one for Sam–dealing with family.

TB-News: Although the audience is quite used to the male cast being nude, you always do it in the weirdest situations: it’s very entertaining to see Sam running naked through the woods or wearing an apron while extinguishing fires. How bizarre and fun are those scenes to play?

ST: Agreed. I do end up in the strangest places naked. One feels so insignificant without clothes and walls and a roof surrounding you. The thing about that scene with the apron–I couldn’t wear any shoes because you could see my feet. Walking around the parking lot like that was so painful. It’s full of rocks. I was just trying not to wince. Season 1, when Andy and Terry saw me running outside by the lake, I had on these tan colored “soft shoe” jazz shoes because there were snakes and spiders and alligators and large ant hills that I had to hop over. Slightly humiliating, the sock and jazz shoe combo. Plus, in an effort to have a closed set–for my privacy–they sent the crew to craft service, which happened to be right in my line of flight. They were standing around eating tuna fish sandwiches as I came barreling toward them.  It was pretty embarrassing for all.

TB-News: Looks like Sam is getting tired of being toyed with by Sookie and has decided to put an end to his almost almost masochist veneration to her. Do you think Sookie is attracted to Sam or is he like the old brother she never had? Sam could be a plausible choice for Sookie if she ever wants to have an almost normal life with someone that can grow up with, get old, have children… Do you see Sam Merlotte being the final weapon for putting the famous love triangle upside down?

Sam taking care of his dearest waitress

ST: You know . . . does Sookie like Sam? I think deep down Sam likes to believe she does. We came really close late in season 1 before Bill barged in on us. I think we’ll be apart for a while and maybe hook up again a few seasons down the line. It’s a very slow burning iron in the fire.

TB-News: Sam is really unlucky with relationships, A toy in Sookie’s hands, blocked from Tara’s feelings and betrayed by Daphne. Do you see him trusting in a woman again?

ST: Not for a while. The first two seasons of our show took place in less than one month. Think about it . . . pretty tough month for Sam. Especially the Daphne betrayal. She was like him. A shapeshifter. The first person he really opened up to, and someone with pretty sage advice about accepting yourself, etc. And then she just leads him to his (almost) demise.. It’s going to be tough for Sam to trust women again. Yes.

TB-News: Have we walked completely away from Tara-Sam storyline? Do you see a chance for them in the future?

ST: There’s always a chance. I don’t know what the writers are thinking, but we never really went fully down that road.

TB-News: Being that Sam is a shapeshifter, why do you think it is so hard for him to accept the other natured, like vampires?

ST: Well, Sam’s a fairly opened minded guy who hires just about anyone. I think he’s had specific encounters with Vampires before arriving in Bon Temps, and I think they weren’t so good. He already has this bias against them right there in episode 1 season 1. One of the fun things about season 3 is that we’re going to have a few flashbacks to Sam’s previous life which shed light on how he survived, how he got money, etc.

TB-News: It looks like ingesting a vampire’s blood results in wet dreams about the blood donor. Will Bill’s blood cause horny dreams for Sam? Do you see Sam accepting Bill now after they  teamed up against Mary-Ann?

ST: Regarding the first question, I probably shouldn’t say anything . . . accept that yes, you have come to a logical conclusion. To your second question, also yes, I think Sam has bonded with Bill to a certain extent. They hatched a plan and saw it through–though it was a little painful for Sam. I think it will bring them closer, perhaps make them less adversarial.

Bill the rival. Wet dreams for Sam Merlotte? /HBO

TB-News: When you were on DJ Lance (VH1’s “Free Radio”)did you know it was all a joke? I haven’t laughed so hard in a while.

ST: Yes, yes, yes! They came to me and asked if I’d be on it–sent me clips of the show. I thought he was really funny. I love improv. It took me about 20 seconds to say yes.

TB-News: You’ve been working pretty hard during the off season. What’s your perfect vacation?

ST: I love to surf and I love to ski. So, a large mountain right next to a beach would be perfect.

TB-News:  Whatever happened to the apron you wore in season 2? You know there’s a lot of women that would sell their soul for it.

ST: Ha . . . I have no idea. I should get that shouldn’t I?

TB-News:  We have read that you play bass and cello. Have you ever been in a band? What kind of music do you listen to?

ST: Oh yeah . . . I was in many bands when I was a kid. I think I was 13 years old when my friend Jon Lim and I started playing together. We enlisted a drummer friend of ours down the street and covered Jimmy Hendrix, Led Zepplin, U2, The Violent Femmes, The Clash. I was in a few more in high school. One was a Rush cover band if you can believe that. I was also playing the cello in a chamber group at the time. In College I was in two different bands and we were writing our own music by then. One was kind of Talking Heads inspired and the other was completely different–funk and African rhythm with like three drummers. And this was all before I ever acted at all. In New York I started playing more acoustic guitar and got into Mississippi John Hurt and that kind of piedmont style blues. I love him. Lately I’ve been playing classical piano–which all started when I heard Bach’s Goldberg Variations for the first time. I learned the aria and then decided I’d start taking lessons. As for what I listen to now–so many different genres. I just made a celebrity playlist for iTunes. Check it out. I think it’s under “The Cast of True Blood”.

Sam and Tommy

TB-News: Season 2 ended with Sam craving for his real roots and his identity. We are going to see that plotline explored in Season 3. Are Sam’s roots the only trouble he will defeat or will the invasion of the werewolves have him equally occupied?

ST: I actually don’t know at this point . . . but I’m sure I won’t get off so easy as to just have family trouble–as sick as it is. You know how they like to torment me.

TB-News: Who or what would you like to shapeshift into if Sam Trammell had the same ability as Sam Merlotte?

ST: I’d shift into President Obama on one of his days off.

TB-News: We’ve heard some different accounts on how Sam could turn into the bull. We’d like to hear it from the horse’s, er dog’s mouth. If Sam needs a live animal as reference to shift, when did Sam ever see the bull before?

ST: That’s a great question, and one I’ve gotten before. During the scene with Bill on the porch, after Maryanne dies, I said to him something to the effect that he’d better get that Bull back to its owners, but it was cut out for one reason or another. So to answer your question, yes, Sam must be in the presence of an animal to imprint on it. Once he’s done this, he can leave the animal and then shapeshift into it a little later on. In the case of the season 2 finale, Bill acquired a bull which I then imprinted on.

TB-News:  OK, this has been bothering us: In season 1 episode 1, Sam ran out immediately after Sookie (when she ran to confront the Rattrays). Sookie saved Bill all by herself; what in the world was Sam doing?

ST: I shifted into a dog to watch over her. I chose not to intervene with the Rattrays (or just got there too late), but Sookie really didn’t need my help anyway did she? However, I did make my presence known right afterwards, licking Sookie’s face. Check out Bill’s reaction. He’s not so happy to see me.

TB-News: Are you a “cyber-guy?” Do you ever lurk around the boards to see what’s being said about the show and especially about your character?

ST: You know, I really don’t. I mean I check out things like Google News to see what critics are saying sometimes just to get a general sense of how things are going, but I try not to dig too deep. I feel like it might be a little distracting for me.

Sam will be participating in the 24 Hour Charity Surfathon on Saturday, June 19th to 12 noon Sunday, June 20th to benefit benefit the Surfrider Foundation, Heal the Bay and Inside the Outdoors. One surfer will receive the “SURF 24 Surfer of the Year” trophy. We’re rooting for Sam Trammell!