Fresh Air Episode Summary: Keri Russell on 'The Diplomat' and Remembering Dorothy Allison
Fresh Air, hosted by Sam Brigger and Terry Gross, features an in-depth interview with actress Keri Russell, discussing her latest role in the Netflix series 'The Diplomat', her acclaimed performance in 'The Americans', and reflections on her early career. Additionally, the episode honors the late writer Dorothy Allison, author of 'Bastard Out of Carolina'.
Introduction to Keri Russell and Her Career
The episode opens with a brief overview of Keri Russell's illustrious career. Sam Brigger highlights her iconic roles, including:
- Felicity: Playing a young college student navigating life and love.
- Elizabeth Jennings in 'The Americans': A Soviet spy living undercover in the United States during the 1980s, a role that earned her three Emmy nominations.
Russell also shared her beginnings on the Mickey Mouse Club, alongside future stars like Britney Spears and Ryan Gosling.
Discussion on 'The Diplomat'
Timestamp: 00:05 - 04:08
Russell delves into her role as Kate Weiler, a career Foreign Service Officer with a reputation for handling international crises discreetly. She describes Kate as organized, fact-focused, and more comfortable working behind the scenes than in the spotlight.
Notable Quote:
"She's a very good organizer, and she's very good at getting all the facts right and getting people where they need to be behind the scenes." — Keri Russell (04:15)
Russell explains that Kate's discomfort with ceremonial duties, such as attending parties and wearing dresses, aligns with her character's preference for substantive diplomacy over superficial appearances.
Insights into Acting and Character Development
Timestamp: 05:39 - 16:37
Russell compares her personal preferences with her character's disdain for public ceremonies. She humorously recounts her reluctance to attend award shows despite their glamorous allure, appreciating the reality of discomfort behind the scenes.
Notable Quote:
"All you wanna do is do like five minutes of one of those things and then go leave and get a burger and have a beer." — Keri Russell (05:39)
Discussing her previous role in 'The Americans', Russell reflects on the depth of acting required to portray a Soviet spy living a double life. She emphasizes the complexity of maintaining authenticity while engaging in deceptive and morally ambiguous actions.
Notable Quote:
"It's an actor's dream... wearing wigs, crazy makeup, becoming someone else entirely." — Keri Russell (14:54)
Reflections on Early Career: From Mickey Mouse Club to 'Felicity'
Timestamp: 16:37 - 29:42
Russell reminisces about her time on the Mickey Mouse Club, highlighting the contrast between being one of nineteen kids and the immersive professional environment with a large crew. She expresses gratitude for the innocent and enjoyable aspects of the show but acknowledges the challenges of balancing childhood with professional commitments.
Transitioning to her breakout role in 'Felicity', Russell describes the show's premise and shares a memorable clip from the series' pilot episode, showcasing her character's earnestness and vulnerability.
Notable Quote:
"It was such a sweet little something... when everything is new in front of you." — Keri Russell (26:21)
Taking a Break from Acting
Timestamp: 27:54 - 29:35
After four successful years on 'Felicity', Russell discusses her decision to take a hiatus from acting. Utilizing her savings, she moved to New York to reconnect with friends and "act like a kid," engaging in normal activities she missed due to her rigorous filming schedule. This break was pivotal in preventing burnout and maintaining her passion for acting.
Notable Quote:
"Just wander around listening to overly emotional teenage music or... reading books all day." — Keri Russell (29:14)
Honoring Dorothy Allison
Following the interview with Russell, the episode pays tribute to Dorothy Allison, author of 'Bastard Out of Carolina', who passed away at 75. Through excerpts from her interviews, listeners gain insight into Allison's experiences with childhood abuse and her literary contributions that shed light on such traumatic experiences with honesty and depth.
Notable Excerpt:
"It was a direct result. I've seen it in so many other people... It's a devastating impact." — Dorothy Allison (32:28)
Allison's reflections emphasize the lasting psychological effects of abuse and the importance of resilience and self-worth in overcoming such adversities.
Conclusion
The episode of Fresh Air offers a comprehensive look into Keri Russell's multifaceted career, her approach to complex characters, and the personal choices that have shaped her journey as an actress. Additionally, the homage to Dorothy Allison underscores the episode's commitment to highlighting influential voices and their enduring impact.
Listeners are encouraged to watch 'The Diplomat' on Netflix to experience Russell's latest work and explore Dorothy Allison's profound literary legacy.
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