olniclo's movieworld

Interviews

April 07, 2006

1.) In a previous Q&A, you mentioned having dogs. What kind of dogs do you have, what are their names? When did you get them and is Otto (the puppy from 3.03) one of them?
Katherine: i have 2 dogs. and no, otto is not mine. although i wish he was. i think they chose otto because he resembled my baby, floyd, who i got when i first moved to L.A. leisha and erin came with me to the pound and he was the 1st one seen and it was love at 1st sight. my other dog is captain. he is another terrier mix who i got while being in vancouver last year. he is almost a year now.

2.) If you were stranded on a deserted island, what 3 albums would you take with you?
Katherine: i would have my ipod instead.

3.) You have a great sense of comedic timing and bring a funny side to Shane, even though I think she's written to be the 'darkest' member of the group. Is comedy something that comes naturally to you, or do you consider yourself more of a dramatic actor?
Katherine: thank you. that's nice to hear. i guess it comes naturally when it presents itself in the situation. even if it is subtle. it is fun to play with though. so thank you again. i'm glad you enjoy it.

4.) What are the countries that you've been to? Anything unforgettable happened to you while you were there?
Katherine: i'm not big on travelling really. i love mexico though. i've been all over that country. i've seen some disturbing things in the more rural areas there. my most recent memory is when i went surfing in baja last spring and i left my surfboard unattended for 5 mins and within that time, it got stolen. thank god i had another one, but it was my fault for leaving it out.

5.) Are you happy with the ending of season three? Or would you have changed anything if it was up to you to decide how it would end?
Katherine: i think it added a lot of "what ifs" for next year. i noticed a scene where i'm saying goodbye to my father's wife after i ditch the wedding was taken out. if anything i would want that back in just so there is some kind of closure or thought to where shane takes off to.



March 24, 2006

1.) What item / possession could you not live without & why?
Katherine: even though they aren't objects, i'd have to say, my dogs. i feel like they are my kids at this point. and i miss them terribly when i'm not with them.

2.) Are you excited about your play the Guardians [more info here: www.45bleecker.com/guardians.html]? Being in front of a live audience and receiving their immediate reactions?
Katherine: i'm really excited about the play. it is so well written that all i want to do is give it the justice it deserves. it will be very interesting to see the audience's response to this because it's a very challenging subject.

3.) What are some of your favorite television shows, past and present?
Katherine: 90210, the cosby show, wonder years, intervention, sfu. and i hate to say it but it's true... laguna beach.

4.) Besides modeling and acting, what other jobs have you had? How did you like them?
Katherine: i worked at a pizza joint at the ocean city boardwalk when i was 17 for a few weeks. then i had a job at the grocery store for 1 day. i don't have a strong work ethic for things i don't care about, which is why they only lasted for short periods at a time.

5.) I read this old Showtime chat transcript where you were asked what made you happy, and answered friends, love, food, life and music. What are some of your favorite foods, and do you like to cook, or are you more of an eat out/order in kind of girl?
Katherine: i have to say, i hate that question because i can't think of any one thing. i'll put it this way, i like everything except tomatoes and eggplant. that being said, i do like to cook. i'm good at making cozy homecooked dinners. without tomatoes or eggplant in any recipe. and yes i do like to go out to dinner a lot. i think i'm a 50/50 blend of both.



March 10, 2006

1.) Since your mother has been a dancer, have you ever taken dance lessons? If so, what type of dance did you study?
Katherine: my mom tried to get me into dance. when i was 3 i went to group ballet classes at my friend's house. long story short, i didn't love it.

2.) Are you satisfied with the direction your career is going? And since becoming more popular with your L-word stint is there anything you have changed in how you look for new roles and jobs?
Katherine: i'm very grateful i have a job to go to every year. the more i do, the more experience i gain. of course there is the other side of me that wants to explore other venues. there are some factors though that can be difficult to override (like hiatus time, stereotyping, etc...). i try to do as much as i can to change my look for meetings and so forth because i would not be satisfied playing the same kind of role over and over again.

3.) During these last few eps., drama for Shane and Carmen has started to unfold. What do you think are the main problems in their relationship?
Katherine: trust, communication, fear... the usual... they are just heightened and more dramatic to fit the show.

4.) You seem to be attracted to alternative roles. Does the thought of mainstream fame scare you? Would you want to be a household name like your famous cousin Gwyneth who can't seem to leave her house without being bothered by photographers?
Katherine: i really can't relate to it on any level. it seems scary and invasive. if a big movie comes along and those are the strings attached then i would really have to love, love the project. i really believe slow and steady wins the race, so i'm gonna do what i do and if people like it great. if not, then it's not meant to be.

5.) You wear glasses in a few episodes. Are those an accessory or do you wear them in real life?
Katherine: yes. i do wear them myself. i'm nearsighted.

Interviews

May 19, 2006

1.) What was the best part about your day today?
Katherine: taking a nice walk around the west village with my dog.

2.) I know you hate "actor" questions but can you tell us how the experience of performing in Guardians for 6 weeks has changed you? Are you anticipating/dreading the play coming to an end?
Katherine: if anything, i feel stronger from it. it was a fear of mine and i conquered it. also, i don't feel lazy. that makes me feel good, that i worked to get paid. but i'm a little sad and happy this show is coming to a close. i know i'll miss the routine. but i will be able to calm my mind, which i do look forward to.

3.) There obviously are differences in theater and tv... how do you find stage acting different from tv acting?
Katherine: stage is about imperfections. and working with them... whether it be from you or the audience. it's kind of like winning. it feels good to think i dealt with this, that and the other, but i still felt good about my work on a certain night.
with film, it's already there... everything is laid out. everyone's quiet; your clothes, makeup and hair are all good to go; and you know what to expect for the most part. film isn't less than by any means, but the immediacy is different.

4.) Broadway.com did a Q&A with Paul Rudd recently, in which he talks about the challenge of doing eight shows a week, and about how there are certain plays you can't relax in. Is that something you can relate to? Is doing eight shows a week as exhausting as it sounds? Are you able to relax and unwind between shows, or is it hard to push the play to the back of your mind?
Katherine: thankfully we only have 7 shows a week. that doesn't sound like much, but it makes a huge difference. but yes, i do agree. for me, this show is not the kind of job i just show up for. lee [Pace - actor] and i have been living this play since we started rehearsals. it's just that kind of piece. my chance to relax is every night when it's over. i get to walk home and release as much pent-up energy as i can.

5.) I just saw you in Guardians. You did an incredible job with a very difficult role, and I enjoyed it immensely-thank you for such a wonderful performance. After the show, you couldn't leave the theater without groups of women surrounding you. You were incredibly warm and accommodating, but I couldn't help but think how uncomfortable I would begin to get with so many people wanting my attention. How is that for you, and how do you deal with it?
Katherine: first off, thank you so much. that means a lot and is always nice to hear... i take it as a very kind compliment. the fact that people make the effort and spend money buying a ticket and then show up is the nicest feeling. it's an honest form of support. so i extend a big thank you to all of you!! but i don't have a way of handling it. when i meet people after the show they are always very respectful and sweet. it's not like NKOTB at the mall or anything. but if it was a little crowded, at that point i'm just exhausted. someone could blow a whistle in my ear and i wouldn't feel it.



May 05, 2006

1.) Are you an optimist or a pessimist?
Katherine: it really depends on the day.

2.) I observed you as Shane and I went to see Guardians in NYC, and I noticed you (personally) are incredibly different from these characters as well as they are from one another - from facial expressions to tone of voice. What are your techniques for getting into character? Is it a mentality? Or do you take on that character's life while you're filming or performing?
Katherine: i really don't know. it is different for every role. i have no set technique... i'm sorry, i don't like "actor" questions. the answers are always self indulgent and filled with bullshit that everyone dozes off to.

3.) The reviews for your work in "Guardians" have largely been very positive. Were you nervous about how the play and your performance would be received among critics? And are you happy with the way it has been received?
Katherine: i was terrified. and that is putting it lightly. thankfully for the most part they have been positive. but even the ones that didn't enjoy it, or didn't like my performance, all i can say is that i haven't done theatre in 8 years, and doing this kind of play is worlds away from what i've been doing recently - in terms of technique and content.
also, i did put pressure on myself because i know what ny critics are like and i know that they aren't always kind to actors who come from film and tv. and here i am doing this political play no less, and working with jason [Moore - director] and lee [Pace - actor] who are both so talented and accomplished. i felt like i had a lot to live up to...
but at the end of the day, i just think fuck it. i worked my ass off, and if they didn't like it, then let's switch places. i'll give you the orange jumpsuit and i'll judge you up there instead.

4.) What do you think the message of Guardians is? What do you hope audiences take away from the show?
Katherine: that misplaced power can lead to evil and dark outcomes. and we are all susceptible to it no matter who we are.
but basically i hope people walk out thinking never judge a book by its cover... it's usually a picture.

5.) There's been some speculation on the net that Jenny and Shane are secretly in love? What's your take? Just a really close friendship? Or is there a little somethin'-somethin' between them?
Katherine: oh jesus!! i think they are friends. but don't ask me, cause honestly i really haven't the slightest clue at this point. and i'm the last one to know these things...



April 21, 2006

1.) In the previous Q&A session you said you'd take your ipod on a deserted island... what playlists have you created on it?
Katherine: i don't do the playlists. i just find what i want to hear.

2.) What was the most deeply moving scene for you amongst The L Word three seasons? Why? And what was the funniest?
Katherine: working with mia. i like the friendly intimacy our characters have together. so i guess that would be season 2. i think the funniest would have to be with leisha and erin. all of them. especially when dana was throwing up over the side of the boat in season 1. i think leisha and i lost it during that.

3.) How was your opening night for Guardians?
Katherine: opening night was an interesting experience. i am glad that it's over and now the play can run its course and find its life without the press being there, or the opening night hoopla. it now feels like it can grow up normally.

4.) How did you get involved in this play? Did you audition the old fashion way?
Katherine: i got a call about this amazing play. long story short... i read it, fell in love with it, and freaked out because it was a huge undertaking. i flew to nyc to read with everyone. and then i found out that it was mine. and then i freaked out even more because now it was real.

5.) Could you tell us a bit about the Guardians production? What attracted you to the play and the part?
Katherine: when i finished reading it i was so touched and i hadn't felt that way about anything i had read for a while... she's a fun, but jaded, insecure girl who has a great sense of humor and a honest uncomplicated view on life. there was nothing not to love.
the production is a very small intimate group - only 4 people including the director and stage manager - which made it a lot easier to fall into rehearsal. and everyone involved is just so beyond wonderful. it has been a very safe, nurturing environment.

Interviews

June 30, 2006

1.) In an old interview, you said high school was not an easy time in your life. If you could travel back in time and give your teenage self a pep talk, what would you tell her?
Katherine: i would just say "this too shall pass".

2.) Music seems to play a big part of The L Word's overall structure. Do you have any influence on the music that is played on the show? And who was your favorite musical guest that has appeared on The L Word?
Katherine: no, i stay out of that department. my favorite music guests so far have been "sleater kinney" and "peaches". they both are so of the time. sadly, i thought peaches was underused. she is so fierce and raw. not to mention, all of those girls were so much fun to work with.

3.) If you could write a movie/series to act in, what type of story would you most like to tell and how would you write the character that you would most like to play?
Katherine: i'm so far from being a writer. i think in terms of what genres i have enjoyed, a movie like "blow" would get my interest. or anything that involves shooting a gun and being dirty.



June 16, 2006

1.) How does it feel to be back on The L Word set for the fourth season?
Katherine: it's really comforting. it's wonderful to be in vancouver after being in nyc, and working with my friends. it's a very relaxing environment and i appreciate it so much. thanks for asking.

2.) Is there a role or a storyline that you would never consider playing?
Katherine: i can't think of anything specific. but there are perfunctory characters out there, and i have seen them in a lot of scripts. i would steer clear of those because i would not be fulfilled at the end of it.

3.) Your speaking voice is very rich and beautiful which implies a good singing voice. Do you like to express yourself that way and would you like to try acting that involved singing?
Katherine: thank you but i am the worst singer that walks the planet. i would never subject myself or others to experience it.

4.) Do you have a philosophy in life?
Katherine: "everything happens for a reason" and "this too shall pass" are my mantras when i need it.

5.) What hidden talent or fact about yourself would surprise fans?
Katherine: i'm very sensitive. maybe at times to a fault.



June 02, 2006

1.) Do you have a myspace account?
Katherine: to set the record straight, i do NOT have a myspace account. in fact, i don't even know what it really is. all i heard is that rupert murdoch owns it and that keeps me away.

2.) What type of perfume do you like to wear?
Katherine: sorry, i can't tell you that one. it took me a long time to find that scent and i have always kept it a secret.

3.) During your stay in NYC, have you seen any Broadway shows?
Katherine: sadly no. i'm upset i didn't get a chance to see "the lieutenant of inishmore". that was the one i wanted to see.

4.) In the December 2, 2005 Q&A, you mentioned that when you got the part as Shane, you had been unemployed for almost a year because of 9/11. Did you ever consider throwing in the towel and trying a different profession?
Katherine: no, it never crossed my mind to do that. i figured the out of work reality wouldn't last forever, and something would come up.

5.) After your experience in "Guardians", if given the right role, would you consider doing another show either on or off Broadway?
Katherine: for sure. i would be very open to it. it's just all about what comes my way.

6.) You've gone from working with a huge ensemble cast on what seems to be one of the most collaborative, close-knit TV sets ever, to doing a monologue play in which there was absolutely no interaction with the one other actor. Was that a jarring difference for you, or a nice vacation from TLW? Or both?
Katherine: it was both. at first it was jarring and then it became exciting to see what i had to deal with each night (in terms of response or lack of one).
also, i enjoyed just having myself to rely on, cause at least i can trust that. but, i do look forward to working with people again.

7.) Has performing in "Guardians" made any difference in your political opinions on the Iraq war or in general?
Katherine: i always understood and agreed with the play's message. it didn't change my thoughts, just reinforced what was already there.

KATHERINE


Name: Katherine Sian Moennig

Name pronunciation: "Meh-nig," according to Katherine herself on a radio interview (Loveline).

Birth date: December 29, 1976

Sign: Capricorn

Birthplace: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Residence: Los Angeles

Height: 5'8''

Eye color: green

Hair color: dark brown

Hair style: Always funky, always fresh. Was short for “Young Americans.” Was stringy and greasy and messy and tousled for season one of “The L Word.” Kate currently rocks a faux mohawk, with longer locks of hair falling in front.

Occupation: model, actress

Current acting gig: Shane on “The L word”

Acting start: did children's theater in Philadelphia with a friend; first stage appearance was in a Children's theatre production of “Winnie the Pooh” at age 10.

Other career paths: at 9 years old, wanted to be a doorman; then wanted to be an FBI agent, then a marine biologist. Realistically, “I'd probably be graduating from some state school I hated and not really know what I was going to do.”

Work ethic: “I don't have a very good work ethic when I couldn't care less about what I'm doing.” The longest she's held a “regular job” is ten days.

Marital status: single

Sexual orientation: straight, gay, bi—only Kate really knows. Has said in past interviews that she's not gay. But people find this topic up for debate, and speculate both ways.

Family: mom was a Broadway dancer; father was violin maker William Moennig; aunt is Blythe Danner, and cousin is Gwyneth Paltrow (and second cousin is Apple Martin).

Education: St. Mary's Interparochial School in Philadelphia; didn't attend university; studied at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York.

Tattoo: an outline of a violin on her lower back; also has the letter "K" on the inside of her left wrist (thanks to Aphrodite K for this info).

Personality: she says she's “just as laid back as Shane.”

Childhood: was a tomboy; spent free time climbing trees and skateboarding with her friends in Philadelphia's Rittenhouse Square neighborhood. All her friends were guys.

Spare time: she likes to “find different ways to be creative”; has an amazing group of friends who she spends “an obscene amount of time with” and who she “loves to pieces.”

What makes her happy: Friends, love, food, life, and music.

Hairdressing skills: she has very little.

Favorite actresses: Patricia Clarkson, Lili Taylor, Martha Plimpton, Frances McDormand

Actors she admires most: Sean Penn and Faye Dunaway

Best advice she's gotten: “Stay true to yourself, and the worst anyone can say is 'no,' so don't give up.”

Idea of a romantic date: “Being comfortable. And laughing. And being honest.”

Choice of acting roles: she has a proclivity to play gender-bending, sexually ambiguous parts. She says she likes roles that “are not normal, everyday lives.” “I don't enjoy romantic comedies—they're not for me.”

Feelings on being a lesbian icon: “That wouldn't be a terrible thing,” she says. “That's why I want to do this, to have people respond to it, to be affected by it. That makes me feel like I've done my job.”

Pets: a Jack Russell-Chihuahua mix named Floyd

Favorite fashion designer: likes a lot of “little unknowns”; but loves Henry Duarte and Christine Ganeaux.

Music: likes MC Solaar (French rapper) and the “Gone in 60 Seconds” soundtrack (a mix of rap and techno); and the bands Phoenix and Luna. (Thanks to Kathie for this info.)

Can't live without: friends and family

Dream vacation: complete relaxation

Favorite book: she really liked Alex Garland's The Beach. “It was brilliant.”

Would like to guest star on: “The Sopranos”

Dream role: playing Patti Smith

Her advice for aspiring actresses: “Know your craft and never take no for an answer from anybody.”