DeepSummary
This episode of the podcast features an interview with Susan Kelechi Watson, who played Beth Pearson on the TV show This Is Us. The hosts Mandy Moore, Sterling K. Brown, and Christopher Sullivan discuss with Watson her audition process for the role, including an amusing anecdote about accidentally incorporating her underwear into the audition scene. They delve into how Watson's character of Beth evolved over the course of the show, particularly her natural hairstyles which were groundbreaking for a leading character on a major TV series.
Watson shares how she advocated for having a hairstylist on set who could properly work with her natural hair texture, and how the writers incorporated Watson's real-life background as a dancer into Beth's storyline. The group reminisces about memorable scenes and storylines involving Beth and her husband Randall, played by Brown, including a period where their characters' marriage was strained.
Throughout the conversation, Watson expresses her gratitude for being part of such a successful and impactful show. The hosts praise her for bringing authenticity to Beth's character and for normalizing the portrayal of natural Black hairstyles in a leading TV role. They discuss the cultural significance of Watson's character and how it resonated deeply with many viewers.
Key Episodes Takeaways
- Susan Kelechi Watson's portrayal of Beth Pearson, including her natural hairstyles, was groundbreaking for a leading character on a major TV series.
- Watson advocated for having a hairstylist on set who could properly work with her natural hair texture.
- The writers incorporated Watson's real-life background as a dancer into Beth's storyline.
- Watson's character and her relationship with Randall resonated deeply with viewers for portraying an authentic, loving Black marriage.
- Watson expressed gratitude for being part of such an impactful show and for the opportunity to bring authenticity to her character.
- The audition process for Watson included a humorous mishap involving accidentally incorporating her underwear into the audition scene.
- The show's creators and writers were supportive of Watson's efforts to ensure authentic representation of her character.
- Beth and Randall's storyline included a period where their marriage was strained, which was a relatable experience for many viewers.
Top Episodes Quotes
- “You know, it's really interesting. Cause, you know, you think about it now, and it's so common to see a black woman on tv.“ by Susan Kelechi Watson
- “And guess what? People recognize me for that. You know what I mean? And so it's like, you gotta go with, like, what. You know, and, like, what's in sort of what's in your heart and, like, what comes to you authentically.“ by Susan Kelechi Watson
- “I remember texting her and being like, oh, and just so you know, I used to dance. If you guys ever want to use.“ by Susan Kelechi Watson
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Episode Information
That Was Us
Mandy Moore, Sterling K. Brown, Chris Sullivan
7/2/24