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Chat With Sharon Gless
from Showtime.com Sunday, March 17
MODERATOR1:Welcome everyone! Thanks for signing on for our chat with Sharon Gless. Sharon plays "Debbie" on QUEER AS FOLK. Sharon is most recognized for her Emmy and Golden Globe award-winning role on the hit TV series "Cagney and Lacey." She has appeared in many other television shows, movies, and on the stage, including her Emmy and Golden Globe nominations for her role as Rosie O'Neill in the series "The Trials of Rosie O'Neill," for which she won the Golden Globe award. She recently starred at Chicago's Tony Award-winning playhouse, The Victory Gardens Theater, in Claudia Allen's "Cahoots,"
as well as several stints, including an evening at Madison Square
Garden with the National Company of Eve Ensler's "The Vagina
Monologues." Welcome back to our QAF chats for the third time,
Sharon. Let's get started and talk about the tenth episode of season two!
SHARON GLESS: Hi all of you out there! Happy St. Patrick's Day. I'm ready, shoot!
robbie01: Was your choice to play Debbie an instant choice, or did it take some time to decide?
SHARON GLESS: It was an instant choice. The minute I read it, I knew there was going to be trouble and I wanted to be a part of it. And I am so happy I did!
RayRay: Do you think that the show "needs" to be as provacative to make it's point to the General Public?
SHARON GLESS: Is that my Ray Ray? I don't know to which point he is referring. But the original QAF from London was very provocative. And I think we felt an obligation to at LEAST match what the British did. I think a lot of people were expecting the American version to be puritanical. And we simply couldn't let that happen. But there is so much more to QAF than just the sexual aspect.
LatinChica: How does it feel to be apart of such a provacative show that raises eyebrows and turns stomachs to some people?
SHARON GLESS: I'm not sure about the stomach turning, but I'm thrilled to be a part of it. It's a groundbreaking show. And I'm having a wonderful time. Stomach are churned, eh?
Cat22: Hi Sharon. Have you received any negatve treatment for being part of the show? You do an absolute wonderful job.
SHARON GLESS: Thank you so much. No, I have never received one adverse comment or remark. It has been a wonderful ride for me. I hope it lasts a long time. We have such incredible stories coming up, there's never a chance to get bored.
SuperPeaches: Hi Sharon! Since your the understanding cool mom on the show, I was just wondering, do people ever come up to you and ask for your advice?
SHARON GLESS: No Peaches! They never ask me actually for advice. But I am asked very happily, for hugs. Men come up to me on the street and ask if I'll hold them. And that's one of the nice perks of this job. Actual advice, I don't think so. I have had people come up and confide in me as to their home situation or what their mother was like. And that's pretty personal. But the hugs are swell.
Chal:How does your personal attitude toward gay issues differ or mirror that of Debbie's?
SHARON GLESS:
I would say thanks to the education that I am receiving everyday that I do this job ... I would say that my attitudes mirror Debbie's. I always felt I had the heart that she has. But I was not as educated as I am today. Another perk for doing this show. I'm just getting all these perks!
flip: Sharon, did you hang out with any PFLAG moms or female friends of gay men to research this role?
SHARON GLESS: No. I have met some PFLAG moms though who have been very encouraging and complimenting ... about how Debbie handles herself. They seem to be more conservative than Debbie, but isn't everyone? I have many, many gay friends. But the research I did was very little. Debbie resonated for me. I just go to the 5th Chakra, my heart Chakra to play her. She's not a difficult character to play. There's something very pure about Debbie. Her emotions are clean, when you get past the
wig and the crazy look ... she's just honest and clear. Now you are
going to see coming up where she's not always perfect.
DebbieRules: Did you have any hesitation being an experienced award winning actress in a cast of unknowns?
SHARON GLESS: Oh no, not at all! It's a real treat working with these young actors. People have heard me say this but I was so impressed with the talent of these young people ... I keep thinking I'm young, but ... I was so impressed that I actually asked Tyne Daly ... "Were we that good at their age?" And she said, "Yeah, we were!" But I'm knocked out by them.
Lance-in-SWWash: Sharon - I love what you bring to the show, being such an experienced and talented actor - have YOU learned anything from your fellow cast mates?
SHARON GLESS: Yes. I learn from them everyday when I watch them work. They are profs. And I watch them closely and steal what I can. I always believe in stealing from the best.
julien: Do you ever think that a show like this can be on regular network TV?
SHARON GLESS: If you're asking me now? No. There would have to be a lot of changes in network TV before a show this explicit ... will be seen. That's the problem with this how. with this "show." It's difficult to syndicate. We still are basically a puritanical country. Showtime is the first I believe to ever be this courageous.
Ugaboo: Sharon, do u think the show would make some younger gay teens feel confortable with their sexuality?
SHARON GLESS: Oh yes! Absolutely. I don't know if that was the initial intent of the show, but I do know because I've gotten letters from young people ... who tell me it's actually very healing for them.
Cat22: Did you watch the London version before taking the part?
SHARON GLESS: No I didn't. A friend of mine sneaked the episodes to me. AT that time it was a black market version. But my producers Ron and Dan, asked that I not look at it. They were writing a very different mother and wanted me to do my own thing ... and not be influenced by what the British actors did. And I then became afraid that if I watched the British version ... I would start questioning if I was doing it right.
NYC-EMS: Hello Ms. Gless. What a pleasure to see you on TV again. My question is: has there been a scene or an episode that you were uncomfortable with but didn't request an edit?
SHARON GLESS: No. I like all my scenes! Aside from calling it Debbie's Diner. I'm very happy.
Leslie: Sharon , who is the person that came up with your "looks" for the show ?
SHARON GLESS: Actually, when I first arrived at the beginning of last year ... I brought a whole bunch of offensive T-shirts with me. I had this idea she would just wear these t-shirts all the time. It was always discussed between the producers and myself that she would wear a wig. She was going to change her wig everyday. But we calmed that down a bit and she is as she appears now. I brought all the t-shirts and all the buttons. But since that time, Patrick Antosh the designer, has
run with the idea and is now designing his own t-shirts. A lot of the t-shirts that I brought, the legal department wouldn't let me wear. My personal favorite was "Diet Cock, Only One Calorie." But they wouldn't let me wear it. The t-shirts have taken off now. And the ones that Patrick is designing you can buy on the Internet.
Mickle: What is your favorite T-Shirt that you've worn as Debbie?
SHARON GLESS: I really don't know. There are so many brought from L.A. and now Patrick is doing such wonderful t-shirts. I don't have a favorite. I'm titillated every morning when I go into my trailer. There's a new t-shirt that's been designed for me. And each one makes me laugh.
Bill10023: Do you get to keep any of your show wardrobe?
SHARON GLESS: I've never asked to keep any of it.
bizboy: Sharon, love you babe. Here's a hard one. Do you think the show would be as big a hit without the sex, drugs and nudity?
SHARON GLESS: Probably not. The drugs are so slight. We're not condoning drugs on the show. It's just a slice of life these young people are going through. But initially why everybody tuned in, I believe, is because they heard about these fabulous boys ... who were taking their clothes off on TV. I reiterate it has become so much more. But it's still nice to see those cute bodies. I'm banned from the set! When they do those scenes. I'm sent to my room.
JohnG: we've seen HIV, gay bashing, drug use, gay marraige... are you going to run out of topics?
SHARON GLESS: I hope not! ANd in the process, although our initial intention is to entertain ... I hope we can also educate.
Junior: Do you feel that the others in the cast will now go on and become as famous as you?
SHARON GLESS: Oh, probably moreso! That's certainly my hope for them.
KristyH: You've worked with a lot of great actors and actresses during your career. Was there anyone you were particularly nervous about meeting? Anyone who had you starstruck?
SHARON GLESS: I've worked with such wonderful actors ... going on my first interview to meet Robert Wagner. I was starstruck. But the wonderful thing about RJ is he made that nervousness in me go away immediately. And when we were shooting our pilot together, it was called "Switch" ... I remember one day looking up and beyond the lights sitting in the director's chair was Natalie Wood. And "that's" nervous. She saw how starstruck I was to see her sitting there. She laughed with affection and understanding. Those are two, but I've been very blessed with all the actors I've worked with. But we don't have time tonight for all those stories. Probably the person that I've met, not worked with, but met ... that I was the most in awe of is Maggie Smith. She made me feel like we'd known each other forever. What a dame!
sutras: Sharon.. How does QAF compare to all your other numerous roles as an actress?
SHARON GLESS: Well every role I play is different. Debbie is probably the most colorful character I've ever played. Certainly in her appearance. And because my medium is mostly TV, I have never played a character where I had such liberty ... as to what came out of my mouth before. I love the way Debbie talks. I love what comes out of her mouth. And Ron and Dan just keep it going.
teacher: Do you think you show actually represents life in the gay community?
SHARON GLESS: I can't speak for an entire gay community. That's a LOT of people and a LOT of lives to which you are referring. I think it shows the lives of THESE young people. You can't represent everybody. This is a very specific story about very specific kids. And what they are going through. At this time in their lives. Fortunately, we get a lot of mail that tells us how many young people relate to the show. But does it represent everyone? Certainly not.
Lavenderpride: I'm curious when are you ever going to have some love in your life on the show?
SHARON GLESS: Stay tuned! It's coming. You'll forgive the expression.
gracie163: What has been the best episode to shoot so far this season? and in the past season?
SHARON GLESS: The one that I had the most fun with last year, just for my character ... was when we got involved with the politician. And Debbie was so snowed by her. That was the most fun for me to play. And this year, I'm loving so much of what they're giving me this year. I'm enjoying playing the progression of the relationship with the man they're writing in for Debbie. It's just a different turn for me on the show and I'm liking it.
souleyes: If you had to describe the second season in one word/sentence, what would it be?
SHARON GLESS: Even better!
Jen: Are there any plans as of yet for a third season?
SHARON GLESS: It has not been announced yet. But I have a feeling we're going to be back. We're Showtime's biggest hit. And I don't think they'll send us away right now. At least I hope not.
Backspace9: what's the set atmosphere like? Is it fun and chatty or kind of quiet until somebody says action?
SHARON GLESS: Generally, it's fun. There are some scenes that require tremendous quiet and concentration on the set. And in my case, if the set or another actor is laughing or playing around when I'm concentrating ... I only say "please could you stop?" and it is always honored. The crew and actors respect one another. It sometimes gets so much fun that they forget. But once just a request is made, everyone goes quiet.
JerTayCre101: WHAT COULD YOU SAY WAS THE WEIRDEST THING TO EVER HAPPEN ON THE QAF SHOWS????
SHARON GLESS: I'm not there all the time. But I am certain that the weirdest thing that has ever happened on our show ... has happened when I'm NOT on the set. Probably during those "closed set" times.
rich: Has anything been censored?
SHARON GLESS: Not that I can see.
JimmiRae: where can I write you e or snail mail so I am sure you'll get my letter?
SHARON GLESS: Our studio, but I don't know the address. As for the address, go to the FAQ section on the QAF site.
sneakers: Sharon, what gum are you always chewing?
SHARON GLESS: It's a sugarless cinnamon. But I'm not allowed to mention the brand. But it is a very specific one. Just the right size.
rae42: Are you still suprised at the "straight" following of the show?
SHARON GLESS: No, my husband pointed out to me that there's not a straight man in the world who wouldn't like to watch ... 2 women going at it, so why should it be different for women loving to watch men? I think he's right.
FairyKing: What is the most embarassing thing you have ever done in your acting career?
SHARON GLESS: I'm sure I've wiped it from my memory.
robbie01: If you could add or change anything about Debbie, would you?
SHARON GLESS: It's a qualified "no." Because every character can grow and change and learn. So in that respect, I would always look for her to grow. But I doubt that her heart would change.
indieFilmmaker: how is your husband, the awesome Mr. Rosensweig? Good I hope!
SHARON GLESS: Thank you for asking! I just spoke to him an hour ago and he was fine. He may be watching this on his computer. And you're right, he is awesome. There's nobody who gets a bigger kick out of me doing this show than Barney. He is constantly amazed when he sees people coming up and wanting to hug me. He shouldn't be surprised, however, since he's the one who taught me about the power of TV.
Lance-in-SWWash: Sharon, what has the response to your character and the show to "mainstream" Hollywood?
SHARON GLESS: I don't know. I really don't know how mainstream Hollywood thinks. I'm not sure what that even is. If we're talking about Steven Spielberg, I wouldn't know. Although I did go on a blind date with him once, but that's another story.
Mickle: Sharon, what's your favorite Vagina Monologue? Wish I'd seen you in the whole show.
SHARON GLESS: The angry vagina. That's my favorite only because I think that's the one I do best. But they're all stunners. Eve Ensler is awesome. It's the only play I've ever seen or been in where the material is bigger than the actress who plays it.
rob309: Sharon - will you be doing anymore live theater?
SHARON GLESS: Oh yes! Always, yes! If somebody invites me. If an interesting script comes my way. I'm always looking.
joejoe: any chance of you doing broadway here in nyc sharon?
SHARON GLESS: They have only to ask! My stage experience has been only in the West End. I've never been invited to Broadway.
stlouisboy: Do you see yourself ever teaching acting anywhere?
SHARON GLESS: Absolutely not. I'm not even sure how I do it.
halusinajen: Does the publicity work ever become tiresome?
SHARON GLESS: My obligation on this show is not as strenuous as it is for the kids. But yes, it can become tiresome. But I think it's a necessary evil.
waynesc: Are you asked to go to a lot of gay charites ?
SHARON GLESS: Yes I am. And I unfortunately am not able to accept most of them. But the amount of invitations that come in is heartening because it lets me know ... what impact this show is having. and in my case specifically, what impact Debbie is having.
deaffriends: How does it feel to be on the show as a P-Flag Mom?!
SHARON GLESS: I like it! I met the woman in L.A. who started PFLAG. And I was nervous at first because I was afraid she would be offended by being represented by someone ... who looked like me or Debbie. But she was thrilled. And loved it. And thanked me for the heart of Debbie. She herself is a very elegant woman. The original PFLAG founder.
four_20_is_fun: Will the show ever be longer than 45 minutes?......the show is just so good it should be a full 60 minutes.
SHARON GLESS: I didn't know it was only 45 minutes. I thought cable didn't have commercials, but I guess they do. I think it has to be at least 48 minutes. Because in commercial TV Cagney and Lacey was 48 minutes. So I thought our show would be at least 48 minutes. As far as QAF goes, each episode varies slightly. It goes anywhere from 45 to 55 minutes.
beege: Has Tyne Daly seen your show and do you watch "Judging Amy?" Do you miss working with each other?
SHARON GLESS: Tyne has seen my show and I have seen Judging Amy. And yes, I do miss working with her. Please know I'm very happy with QAF. But I'd always love to work with Tyne again. Any time, anywhere. We are dear friends and that will not change.
Shari: Do you see any big changes this season?
SHARON GLESS: Yes! Lots of changes. With very scintillating story lines. But if I told you everything, then you'd know. Specifically, I noticed a lot more humor this year. I thought last year was a little darker, for the kids. Not for Debbie, but for the kids in the show. But I think there's a lot more humor this year. And in reverse, given that Debbie is very funny ... there are some dark times for Debbie this year.
sele: Sharon, your character is awesome... such compassion. What have you learned playing Debbie?
SHARON GLESS: I've learned more about the gay community and the gay world.
shari: what made you take this role?
SHARON GLESS: I was so drawn to this character the minute I read it. It absolutely resonated with me. And I thought when I read it and I saw her inside this show ... inside this story, QAF, I saw that I could bring something that wasn't there. She had a humor and a JOY that was not in any other character. And I thought "how nice in this very complicated world and this complicated series, to have this sunshine coming in the room." And I just thought when I read it that I could bring something to the show, and I hope that's been the case.
gumbeauxlvr: Sharon, were you aware of the tremendous lesbian audience Cagney and Lacey had?
SHARON GLESS: Yes. Gratefully aware.
lubblove: Sharon- there is plenty of drama on the show... and drama behind the scenes?
SHARON GLESS: Honestly, no. And if there were, do you think I'd tell you. I've loved talking with you tonight. I wish I could see your faces. I'm very blessed to be a part of this series. And your comments just reinforce how important I think this show is. Thank you.
MODERATOR1: Thank you for chatting with Sharon Gless. We hope you've enjoyed the chat and the tenth episode of season two of QAF. Keep visiting queer.SHO.com for more insight into QAF, and come back next Sunday, March 24 to chat with other Queer As Folk fans. The chat room will open at 10pm ET (7pm PT) so that you can chat with other QAF fans during the episode and afterward until 11:30pm ET (8:30pm PT)! If you missed tonight's episode, tune in to SHOWTIME on Monday at 10pm ET/PT or Tuesday at 11pm ET/PT to catch the encore play. See you next time! The chat room will be closing in two minutes, but you can head on over to the message boards and share your thoughts about this weeks episode. The chat room is now closed. Thanks for joining in on tonight's chat.
Copyright (c)2002, Showtime Networks, Inc. All rights reserved.
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