This week Leslie Hopps DeSchutter jumped in to the Supernatural universe as Amy’s monster mother in Supernatural’s The Girl Next Door. Leslie was kind enough to answer a few questions for us about her terrifyingly feral role and amazingly good time on the Supernatural set. She also graciously sent us exclusive candid behind the scenes photos from the episode. Click here for the interview.
WinchesterBros: What was it like to study with the wonderful William Davis, the infamous “Cigarette Smoking Man” on The X Files?
Leslie: William or Bill as his students called him was a joy to study with. People know him from the X-files but what many people may not realise is the depth of his accomplishments, including running the National Theatre School of Canada. He has such a deep understanding of the art of acting it truely was a gift to be his student. He has remained a friend of mine throughout the years and I am always delighted to hear his stories and just be in his presence. He’s a very kind and soft-spoken gentleman. I also had the privilege of being directed by him in the play, PICNIC by William Inge, another rewarding experience in my own life.
WinchesterBros: You did voice over work on Mobile Suit Gundam Wing, are you a fan of anime and how did you enjoy the experience?
Leslie: My role on Gundam Wing was a pretty short and sweet experience but I do love the voice over process. It’s so exciting hear your voice in animation. Anime is a blast and I hope to do more in the future.
WinchesterBros: How did you get the role on Supernatural? Were you familiar with the show before?
Leslie: My agent secured an audition for me. I worked with my friend and acting coach, Craig March on the character. I had seen the show before and was familiar with the two leads. Much to my delight, Jensen was in the audition room. He was watching through a monitor. I actually messed up one of the lines and started the scene again. I thought to myself, “Oh great, there goes that role.”
WinchesterBros: This was the second episode to be directed by Jensen Ackles. Can you tell us what he like as a director?
Leslie: He is clearly passionate about what he does and very confident wearing the director’s hat. I knew it was his second kick at the can, but he carried himself like an old pro.
WinchesterBros: How does it differ being directed by an actor vs. being directed by someone who’s primary profession is directing?
Leslie: Jensen really understood how to communicate to his actors, being one himself. He was instrumental in creating the fight scene between Colin Ford, Emma Grabinsky and myself. Having taken so many on screen hits himself Jensen was able to articulate exactly how to battle on-screen. A non-actor may not have had the language to express himself as well as Jensen did.
WinchesterBros: Your character was a monster. What kind of preparation went in to this role?
Leslie: I used a method acting animal technique. I based my character on a wild dog. I am naturally a bit squeamish, but I watched a number of YouTube videos of wild dog chases and hunting their prey. A bit gruesome, but all in the name of research.
WinchesterBros: Can you tell us about your experience working on the Supernatural set?
Leslie: I loved, loved, loved it. The chemistry of the cast and crew is outstanding. There is a lot of love and creativity energy on set.
WinchesterBros: Are you ready for all the Supernatural fan love/attention you’re going to get after your episode?
Leslie: I should be so lucky. I’ve already had the pleasure of hearing from a few Supernatural fans out there. These people are awesome and so dedicated. I’m thrilled for fans to follow me on twitter @LeslieHoppsDe and I’ll continue to answer as many questions as I can.
You can follow Leslie on twitter, @LeslieHoppsDe, and with her facebook fan page.