Episodios

  • Episode 130 - ‘Tales’ From Canadian Star Paul Hopkins – Beloved “Tales of the City” Actor Tells All – Part 2
    Jul 28 2025
    In Part 2 of this captivating Hollywood Obsessed interview, host Tony Miros continues his deep-dive chat with acclaimed Canadian actor, producer, & director Paul Hopkins—best known as Michael “Mouse” Tolliver in More Tales of the City & Further Tales of the City. Paul shares what it was like meeting co-star Billy Campbell for the first time and how they effortlessly stepped into their on-screen romance, despite both being straight men. In fact, Paul admits that kissing Billy was far easier than filming a romantic scene with a woman in Mambo Italiano! He reflects on how warmly the LGBTQ+ community embraced his performance, and how few openly gay actors were available for roles like Mouse at the time. Paul also opens up about working with screen legends Olympia Dukakis and Laura Linney, his personal approach to playing Mouse, and how closely the character was modeled after author Armistead Maupin—whose voice and spirit helped guide Paul’s portrayal.The conversation continues with memories from Further Tales, including the return to San Francisco, recreating Barbary Lane on a soundstage, and what it was like filming intimate scenes with Billy—complete with under-the-sheets jokes and full-frontal nudity. Paul shares stories of working alongside guest stars like Sandra Oh (a reunion from their earlier days) and the legendary Joel Grey, who lit up the set with joy. He also recalls how he and Billy landed the Out Magazine cover, the cautious media training he received to avoid controversy, & the minor backlash that followed. Paul also reflects on the Netflix revival of Tales of the City, where the role of Mouse was recast.Today, Paul is known to a new audience as the dad in Disney’s Zombies: The Musical and continues to work in theatre, directing, producing, and performing in Canada. It’s an honest, funny, and heartfelt episode filled with nostalgia, surprises, and the lasting impact of a role that continues to resonate decades later.PAUL HOPKINSBorn in Ottawa, Ontario, Hopkins began his acting career in Montreal after studying theatre at Concordia University. As an actor, Hopkins is best known for his portrayal of Michael “Mouse” Tolliver in the acclaimed miniseries More Tales of the City (1998) and Further Tales of the City (2001), sequels to the groundbreaking Tales of the City (1993), in which the role was originally played by Marcus D’Amico. He also starred as Karl in the cult-favorite series Vampire High and most recently portrayed Officer Jim Bouchard in the critically acclaimed police drama 19-2 on Bravo Television.His extensive television work also includes guest appearances on Suits, Diggstown, Are You Afraid of the Dark?, and the Emmy-nominated miniseries Nuremberg.On the big screen, Hopkins has appeared in a range of feature films including Disney’s Zombies the Musical (Parts 1 & 2), RED 2, The Art of War, Mambo Italiano, The Covenant, Highlander III, and My First Wedding. In 2007, he was appointed Artistic Director & Producer of Montreal’s Repercussion Theatre, best known for its Shakespeare-in-the-Park tours. He led the company until 2015, overseeing more than 200 performances that reached over 70,000 audience members across Greater Montreal & Quebec. Hopkins championed community engagement through youth outreach programs that included children's workshops and cameo roles for local kids in summer productions. In 2013, Hopkins was honored as a finalist for the Christopher Plummer Award of Excellence in Classical Theatre, presented by the Shakespeare Globe Centre of Canada.Paul Hopkins Website - https://www.jpaulhopkins.com The Official Hollywood Obsessed Website - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.hollywoodobsessedthepodcast.com/ ⁠⁠ ⁠ Follow the Official Hollywood Obsessed Facebook Page – ⁠⁠⁠HOLLYWOOD OBSESSED PODCAST⁠⁠⁠ Follow our Instagram - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/hollywoodobsessedpodcast/⁠ Titles VO Talent – Cam Frierson - ⁠⁠http://camfrierson.com/voice Music by⁠⁠ ⁠QubeSounds⁠⁠⁠ from ⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠⁠
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    44 m
  • Episode 129 - ‘Tales’ From Canadian Star Paul Hopkins – Beloved “Tales of the City” Actor Tells All – Part 1
    Jul 28 2025
    In this first installment of a special two-part conversation, host Tony Miros sits down with acclaimed Canadian actor, producer, and director Paul Hopkins—best known for stepping into the iconic role of Michael “Mouse” Tolliver in the Emmy-nominated miniseries “More Tales of the City” and “Further Tales of the City”. Paul opens up about growing up in Ottawa, where his music teacher mom and professor dad kept him busy with piano lessons and talent shows. He discovered acting after getting accepted into the theatre program at an arts school and never looked back—eventually co-starring in an ‘80s after-school special with none other than Sandra Oh!Paul recalls his earliest screen roles—including a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it part in “Highlander III: The Final Dimension”. But his big break came when he landed the coveted role of Mouse in the “Tales of the City” sequels. Replacing Marcus D’Amico in such a beloved franchise might have intimidated some, but Paul took it in stride—reading the books, watching the original miniseries, and embracing the part with openness and authenticity. He talks about what it meant to him as a straight actor playing such a beloved gay character, and how he never once worried about being typecast. His focus was on honoring the story and doing the role justice.Paul also shares what it was like working with the extraordinary cast—including Laura Linney, who instantly put him at ease, and the late Olympia Dukakis, who supported him through one of the most powerful scenes in the entire series: Michael’s “Letter to Mama.” Filming that emotional coming-out scene was nerve-wracking, especially with Tales author Armistead Maupin on set. But Paul delivered it with heart, and it remains one of the proudest moments of his career. If you’re a fan of “Tales of the City,” classic television, or incredible behind-the-scenes stories—this is a conversation you won’t want to miss!PAUL HOPKINSBorn in Ottawa, Ontario, Hopkins began his acting career in Montreal after studying theatre at Concordia University. As an actor, Hopkins is best known for his portrayal of Michael “Mouse” Tolliver in the acclaimed miniseries More Tales of the City (1998) and Further Tales of the City (2001), sequels to the groundbreaking Tales of the City (1993), in which the role was originally played by Marcus D’Amico. He also starred as Karl in the cult-favorite series Vampire High and most recently portrayed Officer Jim Bouchard in the critically acclaimed police drama 19-2 on Bravo Television.His extensive television work also includes guest appearances on Suits, Diggstown, Are You Afraid of the Dark?, and the Emmy-nominated miniseries Nuremberg.On the big screen, Hopkins has appeared in a range of feature films including Disney’s Zombies the Musical (Parts 1 & 2), RED 2, The Art of War, Mambo Italiano, The Covenant, Highlander III, and My First Wedding. In 2007, he was appointed Artistic Director & Producer of Montreal’s Repercussion Theatre, best known for its Shakespeare-in-the-Park tours. He led the company until 2015, overseeing more than 200 performances that reached over 70,000 audience members across Greater Montreal & Quebec. Hopkins championed community engagement through youth outreach programs that included children's workshops and cameo roles for local kids in summer productions. In 2013, Hopkins was honored as a finalist for the Christopher Plummer Award of Excellence in Classical Theatre, presented by the Shakespeare Globe Centre of Canada.Paul Hopkins Website - https://www.jpaulhopkins.com The Official Hollywood Obsessed Website - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.hollywoodobsessedthepodcast.com/ ⁠⁠ ⁠ Follow the Official Hollywood Obsessed Facebook Page – ⁠⁠⁠HOLLYWOOD OBSESSED PODCAST⁠⁠⁠ Follow our Instagram - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/hollywoodobsessedpodcast/⁠ Titles VO Talent – Cam Frierson - ⁠⁠http://camfrierson.com/voice Music by⁠⁠ ⁠QubeSounds⁠⁠⁠ from ⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠⁠
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    33 m
  • Episode 128 - A Trip Down Memory Lane With "Dream On" Star Christopher Demetral – Part 2
    Jul 14 2025
    In Part 2 of this captivating Hollywood Obsessed interview, host Tony Miros continues his deep-dive conversation with former child star Christopher Demetral, who opens up about his time working with legendary “Dream On” producer and director John Landis—calling him the perfect creative force to push the envelope and bring the show’s unique voice to life. He opens up about his relationships with co-stars Brian Benben, Wendie Malick, and Denny Dillon, and the valuable lessons he learned from each of them. He also shares his favorite “Dream On” episode and the bittersweet experience of the series ending during his college years. Christopher recalls stepping into the world of “Dallas” as Christopher Ewing in the reunion movie, working with Patrick Duffy, Tracy Scoggins, and meeting the unforgettable Larry Hagman—who had the most impressive set chair in Hollywood. He also reflects on fan-favorite roles like his lead part in “The Secret Adventures of Jules Verne,” filming in Montreal with guests like Margot Kidder and David Warner, and starring in “Sometimes They Come Back” with Tim Matheson, who gave him an unforgettable on-set gesture of kindness.Christopher also gets candid about the challenges of portraying a real-life autistic savant in “Journey of the Heart” with Cybill Shepherd, and the pressure he felt to do the role justice. He shares behind-the-scenes stories from guest roles on “Beverly Hills, 90210” (where he drove a Zamboni!) and reveals that he was almost cast on “That '70s Show.” In a moving conclusion, he opens up about why he chose to walk away from acting—explaining how the events of 9/11 played a defining role in his life’s direction.CHRISTOPHER DEMETRALChristopher Demetral is best known for his breakout role as Jeremy Tupper on the HBO comedy series “Dream On,” which ran from 1990 to 1996. In 1993, he received the Young Artist Award for Best Young Actor in a Cable Series for his performance.At age 10, he answered an open casting call for “The Return of the Living Dead.” Although too young for the part, his charm caught the attention of a talent agent—and he was signed that very day. From there, his career took off, leading to early guest roles on “Mr. Belvedere,” “The Wonder Years,” “Empty Nest,” and “Star Trek: The Next Generation,” among others.Throughout the 1990s, Demetral built an impressive body of work in both television and film. He appeared in TV movies like “Dallas: J.R. Returns” (as Christopher Ewing), “Journey of the Heart” (with Cybill Shepherd), and “Bloodlines: Murder in the Family.” His guest-starring roles include appearances on beloved shows such as “Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman,” “Beverly Hills, 90210,” “Dawson’s Creek,” and “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation.” In 2000, he starred in the steampunk-inspired series “The Secret Adventures of Jules Verne,” acting opposite legends like David Warner and John Rhys-Davies. He also made a memorable impression in the cult horror film “Dolly Dearest” (earning a Saturn Award nomination) and starred as Brian Bonsall’s older brother in Disney’s “Blank Check.” After stepping away from Hollywood following the events of 9/11, Demetral pursued a quieter life focused on education and coaching—but remains forever proud of the characters he brought to life and the fans who still celebrate his work today.Christopher Demetral Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/christopher.demetral Christopher Demetral Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/chrisdemetral/ The Official Hollywood Obsessed Website - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.hollywoodobsessedthepodcast.com/ ⁠⁠ ⁠ Follow the Official Hollywood Obsessed Facebook Page – ⁠⁠⁠HOLLYWOOD OBSESSED PODCAST⁠⁠⁠ Follow our Instagram - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/hollywoodobsessedpodcast/⁠ Titles VO Talent – Cam Frierson - ⁠⁠http://camfrierson.com/voice Music by⁠⁠ ⁠QubeSounds⁠⁠⁠ from ⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠⁠
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    51 m
  • Episode 127 - A Trip Down Memory Lane with “Dream On” Star Christopher Demetral – Part 1
    Jul 14 2025
    In this first installment of a special two-part conversation, host Tony Miros catches up with former child star Christopher Demetral, best known for playing Jeremy Tupper on the HBO comedy “Dream On.” Christopher opens up about his early days in the business—starting at age 10 with no industry connections, just a big personality and a dream. Inspired by John Cusack and Jason Bateman, he landed his SAG card with a straight-to-video special (“Kids Have Rights Too”) and kept showing up, auditioning, and learning the ropes with help from a strong support system and his dedicated dad.We dive into his guest role on “Star Trek: The Next Generation” as Jean-Luc Riker—an experience that left the superfan over the moon. He shares fun memories of working with Jonathan Frakes, meeting Gene Roddenberry, and the thrill of sitting in Captain Picard’s chair (even if the “swish” doors were manually operated off-camera!). Christopher also reflects on his role in Disney’s “Blank Check,” how uncertain he felt about the film’s release, and the surreal experience of seeing it become a box office hit.Of course, we talk all things “Dream On”—a groundbreaking HBO series that was bold for its time, blending comedy with adult themes. Christopher remembers how he wasn’t even aware of the show’s edgy content until he saw the full pilot script. He shares how he landed the role after another young actor dropped out, and how his co-star Brian Benben became a cherished mentor and friend. It’s a nostalgic, heartfelt, and often hilarious look at a young actor growing up on screen—don’t miss it!CHRISTOPHER DEMETRALChristopher Demetral is best known for his breakout role as Jeremy Tupper on the HBO comedy series “Dream On,” which ran from 1990 to 1996. In 1993, he received the Young Artist Award for Best Young Actor in a Cable Series for his performance—one of four nominations he earned that year alone, including nods for his roles in “Sometimes They Come Back,” “Jonathan: The Boy Nobody Wanted,” and a guest spot on “Blossom.”At age 10, he answered an open casting call for “The Return of the Living Dead.” Although too young for the part, he confidently declared he could be a "good baby zombie or something." Instead, his charm caught the attention of a talent agent—and he was signed that very day. From there, his career took off, leading to early guest roles on “Mr. Belvedere,” “The Wonder Years,” “Empty Nest,” and “Star Trek: The Next Generation,” among others.Throughout the 1990s, Demetral built an impressive body of work in both television and film. He appeared in TV movies like “Dallas: J.R. Returns” (as Christopher Ewing), “Journey of the Heart” (with Cybill Shepherd), and “Bloodlines: Murder in the Family.” His guest-starring roles include appearances on beloved shows such as “Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman,” “Beverly Hills, 90210,” “Dawson’s Creek,” and “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation.” In 2000, he starred in the steampunk-inspired series “The Secret Adventures of Jules Verne,” acting opposite legends like David Warner and John Rhys-Davies. He also made a memorable impression in the cult horror film “Dolly Dearest” (earning a Saturn Award nomination) and starred as Brian Bonsall’s older brother in Disney’s “Blank Check.” After stepping away from Hollywood following the events of 9/11, Demetral pursued a quieter life focused on education and coaching—but remains forever proud of the characters he brought to life and the fans who still celebrate his work today.Christopher Demetral Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/christopher.demetral The Official Hollywood Obsessed Website - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.hollywoodobsessedthepodcast.com/ ⁠⁠ ⁠ Follow the Official Hollywood Obsessed Facebook Page – ⁠⁠⁠HOLLYWOOD OBSESSED PODCAST⁠⁠⁠ Follow our Instagram - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/hollywoodobsessedpodcast/⁠ Titles VO Talent – Cam Frierson - ⁠⁠http://camfrierson.com/voice Music by⁠⁠ ⁠QubeSounds⁠⁠⁠ from ⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠⁠
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    32 m
  • Episode 126 – Reminiscing with ‘60s “It” Girl Turned Glam Queen Leigh Taylor-Young – Part 2
    Jun 30 2025
    In Part Two of this must-hear Hollywood Obsessed conversation, host Tony Miros continues his deep dive with the radiant Leigh Taylor-Young as she opens up about her most iconic roles & emotional moments from her legendary career. Leigh reflects on the cult sci-fi classic Soylent Green, sharing what it was like working alongside Charlton Heston and her beloved co-star Edward G. Robinson, with whom she developed a deep off-screen bond. Her memories of their final wrap party goodbye will move you to tears. From epic MGM sets to unexpected friendships with legends like Joseph Cotten, Leigh paints a vivid portrait of old Hollywood with warmth and grace.The stories keep coming, from filming The Horsemen with a larger-than-life Omar Sharif to her hilarious cameo in the disco-era spectacle Can’t Stop the Music. Leigh dishes on working with Michael Crichton & Albert Finney in the thriller Looker, James Coburn, and even stepping into the world of Star Trek: Deep Space Nine—a gig she says she had a blast doing, thanks to an imaginative makeup team. Her fond memories of Rock Hudson while filming The Devlin Connection, and her admiration for fellow legends like Van Heflin & Lee Grant, shine a spotlight on her enduring reverence for the craft and those who paved the way.From the courtroom thriller Jagged Edge to the food fight chaos of Secret Admirer, Leigh also recounts unforgettable on-set antics with Cliff DeYoung, Dee Wallace, and more. And for soap lovers? She dives into her delicious turn as Kimberly Cryder on Dallas (where she relished going toe-to-toe with J.R. Ewing), and her Emmy-winning role on Picket Fences—complete with a surprise twist from creator David E. Kelley moments before she took home the gold.Now a passionate spiritual guide and world traveler, Leigh reflects on her latest role: sharing peace, joy, and purpose through international seminars alongside her husband. Still acting—most recently in Showtime’s American Gigolo—Leigh Taylor-Young proves that true Hollywood icons never stop shining. LEIGH TAYLOR-YOUNG Leigh Taylor-Young was born in Washington, D.C. into a diplomatic family and began her academic journey studying Economics at Northwestern University. Her passion for performance led her to shift her focus to Theater, studying under legendary teacher Alvina Krause & later with Sanford Meisner at the Neighborhood Playhouse in New York. She made her Broadway debut in 1966 in “Three Bags Full,” followed by a notable Off-Broadway turn in Samuel Beckett’s “Catastrophe,” which toured internationally.Her breakout film role came in 1968 opposite Peter Sellers in “I Love You, Alice B. Toklas,” launching a diverse movie career that included “Soylent Green” with Charlton Heston, “Looker” with Albert Finney, “Jagged Edge “with Glenn Close and Jeff Bridges, and more recent projects like “Bliss” and “Spiritual Warriors.” On television, she starred in “Peyton Place,” “Dallas,” and won an Emmy for “Picket Fences,” with guest appearances on “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine,” “90210,” and “The Sentinel,” showcasing her wide range across genres and platforms.Beyond acting, Leigh has long been dedicated to spiritual growth and service. She became an ordained minister in 1975 and worked closely with her spiritual teacher John-Roger. Alongside her husband, John Morton—head of John Morton Ministries—she has traveled globally offering workshops and seminars on spiritual awareness and personal transformation.Official Website of Leigh Taylor-Young – www.lty.com/lty-the-60s/ Movement of Spiritual Inner Awareness - https://www.msia.org/discover/welcome The Official Hollywood Obsessed Website - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.hollywoodobsessedthepodcast.com/ ⁠⁠ ⁠ Follow the Official Hollywood Obsessed Facebook Page – ⁠⁠⁠HOLLYWOOD OBSESSED PODCAST⁠⁠⁠ Follow our Instagram - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/hollywoodobsessedpodcast/⁠ Titles VO Talent – Cam Frierson - ⁠⁠http://camfrierson.com/voice Music by⁠⁠ ⁠QubeSounds⁠⁠⁠ from ⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠⁠
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    41 m
  • Episode 125 – Reminiscing with '60s “It” Girl Turned Glam Queen Leigh Taylor-Young – Part 1
    Jun 30 2025
    In this captivating first installment of a two-part conversation, host Tony Miros sits down with the legendary Leigh Taylor-Young to trace her journey from Midwestern roots to international film and TV fame. Leigh shares how growing up in a home without a television shaped her imagination—until age 13, when she finally saw her first classic films and fell in love with the screen. Originally an economics major at Northwestern, one acting class changed everything, and soon she was immersed in classical theater, inspired by giants like Sir John Gielgud and soaking in the magic of Broadway.Leigh recounts the serendipitous twists that launched her career—from her Broadway debut in “3 Bags Full,” to a spontaneous audition that landed her the role of Rachel Welles on “Peyton Place,” stepping in for Mia Farrow. On set, she met future husband Ryan O’Neal, and shortly after giving birth, she found herself co-starring with Peter Sellers in the cult classic “I Love You, Alice B. Toklas.” You’ll hear wild stories from that shoot—including the time someone secretly swapped out oregano for real pot on set—and Leigh's personal memories of working alongside Sellers, whom she called a mentor and master improviser.The tales only get wilder from there! Leigh reveals what it was like filming “The Gang That Couldn't Shoot Straight” with a then-unknown Robert De Niro (spoiler: they almost got arrested during rehearsal), and “The Adventurers,” which premiered on a 747 mid-flight. Her globe-trotting adventures included filming “The Horsemen” with Omar Sharif in Afghanistan, meeting royalty, and spending days living with a nomadic gypsy tribe—camel kisses and all!With charm, humor, and plenty of glamorous memories, Leigh paints a vivid picture of a one-of-a-kind Hollywood journey. And believe it or not—this is just Part 1. Don’t miss this delightful trip through classic cinema, unexpected adventures, and unforgettable behind-the-scenes stories from a true Hollywood original.LEIGH TAYLOR-YOUNG Leigh Taylor-Young was born in Washington, D.C. into a diplomatic family and began her academic journey studying Economics at Northwestern University. Her passion for performance led her to shift her focus to Theater, studying under legendary teacher Alvina Krause and later with Sanford Meisner at the Neighborhood Playhouse in New York. She made her Broadway debut in 1966 in “Three Bags Full,” followed by a notable Off-Broadway turn in Samuel Beckett’s “Catastrophe,” which toured internationally.Her breakout film role came in 1968 opposite Peter Sellers in “I Love You, Alice B. Toklas,” launching a diverse movie career that included “Soylent Green” with Charlton Heston, “Looker” with Albert Finney, “Jagged Edge “with Glenn Close and Jeff Bridges, and more recent projects like “Bliss” and “Spiritual Warriors.” On television, she starred in “Peyton Place,” “Dallas,” and won an Emmy for “Picket Fences,” with guest appearances on “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine,” “90210,” and “The Sentinel,” showcasing her wide range across genres and platforms.Beyond acting, Leigh has long been dedicated to spiritual growth and service. She became an ordained minister in 1975 and worked closely with her spiritual teacher John-Roger. Alongside her husband, John Morton—head of John Morton Ministries—she has traveled globally offering workshops and seminars on spiritual awareness and personal transformation.Official Website of Leigh Taylor-Young – www.lty.com/lty-the-60s/ Movement of Spiritual Inner Awareness - https://www.msia.org/discover/welcome The Official Hollywood Obsessed Website - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.hollywoodobsessedthepodcast.com/ ⁠⁠ ⁠ Follow the Official Hollywood Obsessed Facebook Page – ⁠⁠⁠HOLLYWOOD OBSESSED PODCAST⁠⁠⁠ Follow our Instagram - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/hollywoodobsessedpodcast/⁠ Titles VO Talent – Cam Frierson - ⁠⁠http://camfrierson.com/voice Music by⁠⁠ ⁠QubeSounds⁠⁠⁠ from ⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠⁠
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    53 m
  • Episode 124 – A Revealing Chat with Iconic Prime Time Soap Diva & “Knots Landing” Star Joan Van Ark - Part 2
    Jun 16 2025
    In Part Two of this captivating Hollywood Obsessed interview, host Tony Miros continues his deep dive with legendary actress Joan Van Ark, as she opens up about her unforgettable run as Valene Ewing on the long-running primetime soap “Knots Landing”—one of the most beloved shows of the 1980s and '90s.Joan shares what it was like working alongside Donna Mills, who played the deliciously devious Abby, including how nervous Donna was on her very first day. She reflects on the powerful, lasting friendship she shares with both Donna and Michele Lee, and how the bond between the trio remains strong decades later. She also talks about navigating her dual role on both “Dallas” and “Knots Landing”—juggling crossover episodes like Lucy and Mitch’s wedding while flying coast to coast to also shoot commercials for Estée Lauder in New York City.Joan reveals behind-the-scenes stories from her return to the role of Valene in the TNT reboot of “Dallas,” including a dramatic scene with Linda Gray that was filmed 12 hours into the day—due to a lead actor repeatedly reshooting their own scene. She also shares what it was like working on the fast-paced daytime world of “The Young and the Restless,” and how that schedule compared to the more leisurely pace of primetime television.Plus, Joan talks about her guest role on “Nip/Tuck” with Donna Mills and Shari Belafonte, and the exciting new podcast she’s doing with her “Knots Landing” co-stars, “We’re Knot Done Yet.” As the conversation wraps, she reflects on her legacy as one of TV’s most iconic soap divas—and hints that she still has one unforgettable character left to play. Don’t miss this inspiring, behind-the-scenes journey with a true television legend.JOAN VAN ARKJoan began her career with a remarkable distinction—becoming the second youngest student ever admitted to the Yale School of Drama on scholarship, following Julie Harris, who would become her mentor and lifelong friend. She made her professional stage debut at the Guthrie Theater in Molière’s The Miser alongside Hume Cronyn and Zoe Caldwell, then went on to appear in Death of a Salesman with Cronyn and Jessica Tandy. Her stage work flourished with notable roles at Arena Stage in Washington, D.C., a national tour and Broadway run of Barefoot in the Park directed by Mike Nichols, and award-winning performances in The School for Wives and The Rules of the Game.She rose to national fame for her iconic portrayal of Valene Ewing on Dallas and its long-running spin-off Knots Landing.Over 13 seasons, she received six award nominations and won two Soap Opera Digest Awards. Joan later reprised the beloved role in two reunion specials and a guest appearance in the rebooted Dallas on TNT. Her television work also includes starring roles in sitcoms like Temperature Rising and We’ve Got Each Other, a year-long role on The Young and the Restless, and appearances in The Nanny, My Name is Earl, and Nip/Tuck. In 2025, she reunited with co-stars Michele Lee and Donna Mills for the podcast We’re Knot Done Yet.Van Ark's work extends to numerous television movies, including When the Darkman Calls, Tainted Blood, Always Remember I Love You, and Boys Will Be Boys, which she also directed—earning a Humanitas nomination. She lent her voice to the animated series Spider-Woman and Santo Bugito, and in 1997 directed an Emmy-nominated documentary on homelessness and domestic violence for the Directors Guild of America. Official Website of Joan Van Ark - https://www.joanvanark.com “We’re Knot Done Yet” Podcast - https://wkdypodcast.podbean.com/ The Official Hollywood Obsessed Website - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.hollywoodobsessedthepodcast.com/ ⁠⁠ ⁠ Follow the Official Hollywood Obsessed Facebook Page – ⁠⁠⁠HOLLYWOOD OBSESSED PODCAST⁠⁠⁠ Follow our Instagram - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/hollywoodobsessedpodcast/⁠ Titles VO Talent – Cam Frierson - ⁠⁠http://camfrierson.com/voice Music by⁠⁠ ⁠QubeSounds⁠⁠⁠ from ⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠⁠
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    23 m
  • Episode 123 – A Revealing Chat with Iconic Prime Time Soap Diva & “Knots Landing” Star Joan Van Ark - Part 1
    Jun 16 2025
    In this must-hear episode of Hollywood Obsessed, host Tony Miros sits down with the legendary Joan Van Ark—beloved by millions for her unforgettable role as Valene Ewing on the classic primetime soap “Knots Landing.” For 13 seasons, Joan brought depth, vulnerability, and strength to one of television’s most iconic characters—and in this candid conversation, she shares how it all began.Joan opens up about her Broadway debut as Corie in “Barefoot in the Park,” directed by the legendary Mike Nichols, and how that pivotal role helped shape her career. She reflects on her life-changing friendship with her idol Julie Harris, who played a major role in getting her admitted to the Yale School of Drama. Joan also talks about the unwavering support of her parents and what she tells aspiring actors today about breaking into the business.From her early days as a contract player at Universal Studios—where a kind makeup artist (who happened to be Michele Lee’s father!) helped calm her nerves— on set of her first TV role opposite Ben Gazzara on “Run for Your Life,’ Joan shares heartfelt and humorous memories of navigating Hollywood. She reveals how she and Michele Lee became instant friends and how the cast of “Knots Landing” became like a second family.Plus, hear the surprising story of how Ted Shackelford came to play her on-screen husband Gary Ewing—even after she initially thought it was a terrible idea! Joan also reminisces about working on “Dallas,” her fun chemistry with Charlene Tilton (Lucy), and the unforgettable antics of Larry Hagman, including one particularly messy prank involving peanut butter. Packed with warmth, wit, and wonderful stories, this episode is a treat for fans of classic TV & anyone who loves a great Hollywood journey.JOAN VAN ARKJoan began her career with a remarkable distinction—becoming the second youngest student ever admitted to the Yale School of Drama on scholarship, following Julie Harris, who would become her mentor & lifelong friend. She made her professional stage debut in Molière’s The Miser alongside Hume Cronyn and Zoe Caldwell, then went on to appear in Death of a Salesman with Cronyn and Jessica Tandy. Her stage work flourished with notable roles at Arena Stage in Washington, D.C., a national tour and Broadway run of Barefoot in the Park directed by Mike Nichols, and award-winning performances in The School for Wives and The Rules of the Game.She rose to national fame for her iconic portrayal of Valene Ewing on Dallas and its long-running spin-off Knots Landing.Over 13 seasons, she received six award nominations and won two Soap Opera Digest Awards. Joan later reprised the beloved role in two reunion specials and a guest appearance in the rebooted Dallas on TNT. Her television work also includes starring roles in sitcoms like Temperature Rising and We’ve Got Each Other, a year-long role on The Young and the Restless, and appearances in The Nanny, My Name is Earl, and Nip/Tuck. In 2025, she reunited with co-stars Michele Lee and Donna Mills for the podcast We’re Knot Done Yet.Van Ark's work extends to numerous television movies, including When the Darkman Calls, Tainted Blood, Always Remember I Love You, and Boys Will Be Boys, which she also directed—earning a Humanitas nomination. She lent her voice to the animated series Spider-Woman and Santo Bugito, and in 1997 directed an Emmy-nominated documentary on homelessness and domestic violence for the Directors Guild of America. Official Website of Joan Van Ark - https://www.joanvanark.com “We’re Knot Done Yet” Podcast - https://wkdypodcast.podbean.com/ The Official Hollywood Obsessed Website - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.hollywoodobsessedthepodcast.com/ ⁠⁠ ⁠ Follow the Official Hollywood Obsessed Facebook Page – ⁠⁠⁠HOLLYWOOD OBSESSED PODCAST⁠⁠⁠ Follow our Instagram - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/hollywoodobsessedpodcast/⁠ Titles VO Talent – Cam Frierson - ⁠⁠http://camfrierson.com/voice Music by⁠⁠ ⁠QubeSounds⁠⁠⁠ from ⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠⁠
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    26 m