Work in Progress: Annaleigh Ashford
Work in Progress with Sophia Bush
Release Date: May 1, 2025
Host: Sophia Bush
Guest: Annaleigh Ashford

Introduction

In this engaging episode of Work in Progress with Sophia Bush, host Sophia Bush sits down with the illustrious actress Annaleigh Ashford. The conversation delves into Annaleigh's multifaceted career spanning Broadway, film, and television, alongside personal insights into managing anxiety, balancing family life, and her latest project, the true crime series Happy Face.

Annaleigh Ashford’s Career Journey

Annaleigh Ashford opens the discussion by celebrating her extensive career accomplishments. She highlights her Primetime Emmy nomination for her role in Hulu’s Welcome to Chippendales, her Grammy nomination for the Sweeney Todd musical theater recording, and her Tony Award win in 2015. Sophia compliments Annaleigh, noting her versatility and charm across various mediums.

Notable Quote:
Annaleigh Ashford [02:18]: “From Broadway to film to TV, she is an absolute legend.”

Personal Anecdotes and Humor

The conversation begins with light-hearted banter about technical difficulties during the recording, showcasing their natural chemistry and humor. Annaleigh shares a funny moment about struggling with audio setups, which leads to playful exchanges about ergonomic chairs and quirky microphone setups.

Notable Quote:
Sophia [04:26]: “My posture is not a result of me trying to have good posture... it’s really just because my microphone setup is bizarre.”

Dealing with Anxiety and Health Challenges

Annaleigh opens up about her battle with anxiety and a severe COVID-19 experience that led to cardiac issues. She discusses the challenges of navigating health scares while maintaining a demanding career in large theaters. The two hosts share personal strategies for managing anxiety, including the use of medications like lorazepam and beta blockers.

Notable Quotes:
Annaleigh Ashford [06:05]: “This is deeply, emotionally unhealthy.”
Sophia [12:19]: “I have a half dose, but if I'm having a panic attack moment, I'll take a full one.”

Exploration of the New Series: Happy Face

Annaleigh shines a spotlight on her latest project, the true crime series Happy Face, inspired by the real-life story of Melissa G. Moore and her father, the notorious Happy Face Killer. The show aims to provide a compassionate portrayal of the victim's daughter and her journey into advocacy.

Notable Quotes:
Sophia [42:20]: “It has a great character with incredible conflict, really vulnerable.”
Annaleigh Ashford [44:33]: “It's the telling of her story... the crime elements are fictionalized.”

Balancing Work and Family Life

The discussion shifts to the complexities of balancing a high-powered acting career with family responsibilities. Annaleigh shares her strategies for organizing life around eight shows a week, while Sophia relates by discussing her experiences juggling work with being a new mother. They emphasize the importance of self-care and setting boundaries to maintain personal well-being.

Notable Quotes:
Annaleigh Ashford [33:02]: “I'm trying to learn to also make sure I'm good in that first pass.”
Sophia [64:25]: “Making sure that I say yes to myself and take care of myself.”

Insights on Personal Growth and Learning

Both hosts reflect on their continuous journey of personal growth and learning. Annaleigh talks about holding multiple truths simultaneously and engaging in meaningful dialogues to foster understanding and reduce conflict. Sophia echoes the sentiment, emphasizing the importance of flexibility and emotional separation from roles to preserve mental health.

Notable Quotes:
Annaleigh Ashford [33:13]: “Every year I want to feel like I've learned more and shifted my capability.”
Sophia [25:22]: “Actors need rest because you're putting your body through this marathon, not only physically but emotionally.”

The Importance of Mentorship and Learning from Peers

Annaleigh reminisces about influential mentors like James Earl Jones and Linda Lavin, highlighting the invaluable lessons learned from them about perpetual learning, forgiveness, and maintaining a positive workspace. Sophia adds her appreciation for continuous learning through experiences and interactions with esteemed colleagues.

Notable Quotes:
Annaleigh Ashford [40:51]: “Those two were great teachers.”
Sophia [37:46]: “I've learned from everybody that I ever work with, whether it's a good experience or a bad experience.”

Navigating the True Crime Genre with Sensitivity

A significant portion of the episode focuses on the ethical considerations of portraying true crime stories. Annaleigh discusses how Happy Face aims to respect victims and their families by avoiding glorification of the perpetrator and minimizing the depiction of graphic violence. Sophia shares how this approach has transformed her consumption of true crime media, making her more aware of the impact these stories have on real lives.

Notable Quotes:
Sophia [45:50]: “It has absolutely changed the way that I consume true crime.”
Annaleigh Ashford [54:46]: “These things we show, these reenactments... normalize by nature.”

Light-Hearted Moments and Shared Interests

To balance the deep and introspective conversations, Sophia and Annaleigh engage in playful banter about reality TV shows, favorite Bravo series, and nostalgic discussions about fashion and pop culture. They share laughs over topics like high butt cracks and quirky shopping experiences, highlighting their genuine friendship and relatable personalities.

Notable Quotes:
Annaleigh Ashford [60:33]: “Feels like a late night infomercial. You can sue.”
Sophia [67:04]: “Enjoy. Six o'clock. Go to Erewhon and buy $50 worth of dinner.”

Future Projects and Personal Goals

Looking ahead, Annaleigh shares her excitement about upcoming projects, including a queer romantic comedy and a guest-directing role for a documentary film festival. Both hosts express their aspirations to continue growing personally and professionally, emphasizing the importance of joy, gratitude, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

Notable Quotes:
Annaleigh Ashford [65:23]: “I have a movie coming out in June and... guest directing a documentary film festival.”
Sophia [62:55]: “Making sure that I say yes to myself and take care of myself.”

Conclusion

The episode concludes on a positive and uplifting note, with Annaleigh and Sophia reaffirming the importance of self-care, continuous learning, and fostering supportive relationships both personally and professionally. Annaleigh expresses gratitude for the meaningful conversations she’s had with mentors and peers, while Sophia encourages listeners to prioritize their well-being amidst their busy lives.

Notable Quote:
Annaleigh Ashford [64:29]: “You gotta take care. Put your oxygen mask on before your neighbor.”

Highlighted Quotes with Timestamps

1. Annaleigh Ashford
   [02:18]: “From Broadway to film to TV, she is an absolute legend.”

2. Sophia Bush
   [04:26]: “My posture is not a result of me trying to have good posture... it’s really just because my microphone setup is bizarre.”

3. Annaleigh Ashford
   [06:05]: “This is deeply, emotionally unhealthy.”

4. Sophia Bush
   [12:19]: “I have a half dose, but if I'm having a panic attack moment, I'll take a full one.”

5. Sophia Bush
   [42:20]: “It has a great character with incredible conflict, really vulnerable.”

6. Annaleigh Ashford
   [44:33]: “It's the telling of her story... the crime elements are fictionalized.”

7. Annaleigh Ashford
   [33:02]: “I'm trying to learn to also make sure I'm good in that first pass.”

8. Sophia Bush
   [64:25]: “Making sure that I say yes to myself and take care of myself.”

9. Annaleigh Ashford
   [40:51]: “Those two were great teachers.”

10. Sophia Bush
    [45:50]: “It has absolutely changed the way that I consume true crime.”

11. Annaleigh Ashford
    [54:46]: “These things we show, these reenactments... normalize by nature.”

12. Annaleigh Ashford
    [65:23]: “I have a movie coming out in June and... guest directing a documentary film festival.”

13. Annaleigh Ashford
    [64:29]: “You gotta take care. Put your oxygen mask on before your neighbor.”

Key Takeaways

• Versatility in Acting: Annaleigh Ashford's successful transition across various entertainment sectors underscores the importance of adaptability and continuous skill development.

• Mental Health Awareness: Open discussions about anxiety, health challenges, and the importance of seeking professional help highlight the need for mental health advocacy, especially in high-stress professions.

• Ethical Storytelling in True Crime: The emphasis on respectful and sensitive portrayal of true crime stories emphasizes the responsibility creators have towards victims and their families.

• Work-Life Balance: Strategies for balancing a demanding career with personal life, such as prioritizing self-care and setting boundaries, are crucial for long-term well-being and success.

• Continuous Learning and Mentorship: Learning from mentors and peers fosters personal growth and enhances professional capabilities, reinforcing the value of mentorship in creative industries.

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the rich discussions between Sophia Bush and Annaleigh Ashford, providing listeners with valuable insights into Annaleigh’s professional journey, personal growth, and the nuanced approach to storytelling in her latest project. The inclusion of notable quotes with timestamps offers a glimpse into key moments of the conversation, making it an informative read for those who haven't tuned into the episode.