Allison Janney Discusses Co-Stars on “Watch What Happens Live!”
Allison Janney kept her thoughts private regarding her former co-star during a recent appearance on “Watch What Happens Live!” The 65-year-old actress participated in a game called “Agree or Disagree” alongside her co-star Keri Russell.
In this game, host Andy Cohen posed questions to the guests, who would then show cards indicating agreement or disagreement. When asked if any former co-stars were present, Janney and Russell displayed a sign that read, “We refuse to work together again.” Cohen further noted they could earn “extra points” by naming the celebrities.
Janney responded, saying, “Well, it’s really impossible because my actors are no longer there. I really couldn’t work with them again even if I wanted to.” This led to Russell and Cohen pressing her for names. Janney then clarified, “No, that’s not what I mean. I’m not going to lull you into a false sense of security being in this tiny little club.”
Later, Russell playfully reminded her of her mother’s advice about discussing people: “My mother would say, ‘In the car, with the windows down, out in the driveway.'” Janney and Russell are co-starring in the Netflix show “The Diplomat,” where Janney plays the fictional U.S. President Grace Penn, while Russell portrays the U.S. ambassador to the UK.
“No, that’s not what I mean. I’m not going to lull you into a false sense of security being in this tiny little club.”
Janney expressed her enjoyment of their on-screen relationship, describing it as one of the best she’s had. She emphasized the struggles women face in maintaining their roles, stating that their decisions, especially Grace’s, come under severe scrutiny.
This season features Bradley Whitford as Janney’s husband, which fans welcomed, especially since they previously starred together on “The West Wing.”
Reflecting on her experience working with Whitford again, Janney remarked in an interview that it felt “very easy and comfortable” due to their shared history. She noted, “I think it would have been more difficult if it was someone I didn’t know. It was surprisingly easy and really fun.”
Janney’s career has been decorated with accolades; she won four Emmy Awards for her role on “The West Wing,” among others. She also took home an Academy Award in 2018 for her part in “I, Tonya,” which delves into the infamous incident involving Tonya Harding and Nancy Kerrigan.
In a behind-the-scenes commentary, Janney described her character in “I, Tonya,” saying, “Lavona Harding is one of the cruelest people I’ve ever played.” She reflected on Lavona’s complex relationship with her daughter and the struggles they faced.
