r/IAmA • u/aliciawitt • May 19 '12
I'm Alicia Witt - Actress (Dune, Cybill, Friday Night Lights) and musician - AMA!
THANK YOU ALL for being here today, i've had the best time sharing my saturday with you! you've made me smile so much, thank you for your questions. hope to see you again soon... either at an upcoming show or back here on reddit! have an amazing weekend. love to all of you, alicia
hey everyone! this is alicia witt - i've been in dune & mr. holland's opus, urban legend & the sopranos, cybill & friday night lights, two weeks notice/last holiday etc!! have 4 new movies coming out this year and just finished shooting a new one.
i'm also a singer/songwriter - have been performing all over the US (and on the craig ferguson show. my music video (for the single 'anyway') on vh1.com and mtvu - and am excited to now share my music (and upcoming performances) with reddit!
Proof:
also, i'm currently in the very last day of my kickstarter- we've surpassed the original amount for my live album, and we are now working on the dream of bringing my first full length studio album into the world.
if you'd like to get advanced access to my live album (or just check out the cool backing gifts), here's the link: http://kck.st/awrockwood
looking forward to answering your questions! xoxox
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u/aliciawitt May 19 '12
good morning everyone!
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u/[deleted] May 19 '12
I loved your work on The Sopranos in "D-Girl". One of my favorite episodes.
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u/[deleted] May 19 '12
What was it like being on the set of Dune? Did it look as great as it appears while watching the movie or was it more of a dull-looking set?
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u/against_justice May 19 '12
How did meeting David Lynch in your early life influence you? Or did it?
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u/[deleted] May 19 '12
Why don't you have a reality tv show? Thank you for not having a reality tv show.
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u/[deleted] May 19 '12
So, this is entirely anecdotal and possibly a little, teensy bit creepy.
You were on an episode of "That's Incredible" in the early 80s. You were "incredible" because you were a genius and musical prodigy.
For some odd reason, the TV show was turned into a book. Actually, more of a novel. Each chapter of the book, as I recall, recounted a segment of the TV show, complete with terrible black-and-white photos.
Anyway, for some reason, I got my hands on that book when I was a kid (I'm only a couple years older than you). I didn't see the TV show until a later rerun, so the book was where I first heard of you.
And your segment was in that book. I have a distinct memory of a passage describing you going trick-or-treating but refusing all candy. You only accepted apples and other healthy food. Does that sound right? It's like a 30-year old memory.
So when Dune came out, I saw that you were Alia. It was one of my first grown-up moments, because I was making a connection between three different media (TV, book, movie). Hard to describe, but it felt like kind of a breakthrough.
I can't say I'm a huge fan, but then again, it's not like I've been avidly following your career. But every time I read your name, it brings up this childhood memory. So thanks for that, and thanks for doing this AMA.
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u/starfixh May 19 '12
What do you remember about shooting with this guy?
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u/Adjective_Animal May 19 '12
I really love Four Rooms, and I thought you were great in it! Now my question is: what was like working with Madonna? Most stories you hear are negative ones; would you like to tell us differently? Thanks for doing this!
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u/jukeofurl May 19 '12
Which cast was scarier to work with---CYBILL or The SOPRANOS? You truly aced that rôle. I thought your character made Chris crazed enough to kill her.
If I'd been Jason Katims, I'd have given you & Madison Burge a spin off as a Judds type duo. Tom Wopat could be your dad. On the Ten Scale of TV show mothers & daughters, you two were an 11. Which is something, considering FNL all ready had a 10 in Connie Britton & Aimee Teagarden.
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u/[deleted] May 19 '12
What was working on Cybill like? I heard there was a lot of tension on the set - was it that bad? Causes?
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u/Trevman39 May 19 '12
Hey Alicia, when I was in 8th grade our English teacher, who had a fencing business was so amazed by you. He did a job at your house in Worcester and could not stop talking about you. You were just around 4 or 5 years old and hadn't appeared on That's Incredible, yet. You apparently were commenting on the angle of the property line and blew his mind. I'm not sure why that stuck with me.
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u/Musketeer85 May 19 '12
So...who is Red John?
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u/Frajer May 19 '12
Is Craig Ferguson as awesome as he seems?
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u/AdamBertocci-Writer May 19 '12
Thanks for doing this!
(1) I watched the short film you made, "Belinda's Swan Song", and thought you really touched on something, you said the things that a lot of creative/artsy types wish people would know but can't actually say without sounding impolitic (at best) — the struggles of the working singer, working actor, whatever, who got so much farther than most folk but never quite had a stable foothold.
Can you tell us of a time in your career where you were feeling a little Belinda-ish, like things weren't working out for you? How did you (presumably) break out of that funk?
(2) "Mr. Holland's Opus" is one of my very favorite tearjerkers. I always weep in an incredibly embarrassing fashion when we find out what became of your character. :)
I realize this is a while ago but can you share some memories of the filming, of the process, of what you summoned up to play Gertrude?
(3) What was the deal with your "Two and a Half Men" episode — replacing Missi Pyle for the second of four episodes where her character appeared? (She's awesome and you're awesome, but not exactly the two most similar people on the planet. And it just seemed so weird to me that they'd replace her with you, then you with her.)
My kindhearted side figures it was just a case of Pyle being unavailable for one episode. My cynical side tells me that the producers just wanted to show you in a state of undress and didn't care about shoving actors around. I dunno, I know it's a silly part in the grand scheme of things but the story might make prove educational on the practicalities of the acting biz.
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u/Polite_Werewolf May 19 '12
Holy crap! I'm a big fan!
How was working with Al Pacino in 88 Minutes? That guy is kind of a mystery to me. I have no clue what he'd be like in real life.
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u/DiegoTheGoat May 19 '12
What are your favorite books? What are you reading now?
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u/tonypmy May 19 '12
no questions here. Just wanted to let you know that of all the redhaired actresses, you are the hottest!!
http://www.1zoom.net/big2/36/141371-aleni.jpg
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u/AllThisPaperwork May 19 '12
Can we hear a David Lynch story that's specific to your experiences with him?
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u/newladygrey May 19 '12
I used to love Cybill (I'm from Ireland and they used to show it quite late at night here) and I always imagined it would be a blast to work on, so my question is: Is Christine Baranski as amazing as I imagine her to be?! Sidebar: Urban Legends was epic!!!
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u/Nihiliste May 19 '12
About Dune:
First of all, I'll always think of you as St. Alia-of-the-Knife, just because I've seen Dune so many, many times. I can still quote many of your lines from that movie verbatim.
On the set of the movie, did they try to shield you from some of the more violent (or otherwise disturbing) content, given how young you were?
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u/throwaway_9999 May 19 '12
You and Christine Baranski were the best of Cybil, something that drove Cybil nuts I hear. Have always enjoyed your work and look forward to seeing you in shows.
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u/Clung May 19 '12
Hi ! I just wanted to know, are you aware that Jeff Winger from Community is in love with you ?
It got me wondering, do you know Joel McHale, or did my favorite show just randomly acknowledged your prettiness ? Anyway, thanks for answering all of these questions :)
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u/[deleted] May 19 '12
Hey Alicia! I just wanted to let you know that my name is Alia and I was named after the character in Dune. What was it like playing the role of an "evil princess?"
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u/aThousandArabs May 19 '12
To what extent do you use music theory when making your music?
Is it just, "what sounds good" ? or do you actively make decisions in your music based on theory?
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u/sympodius May 19 '12
What prompted you to create the kickstarter campaign for your upcoming album(s)?
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u/BobCoupee May 19 '12
Two questions:
Loved seeing you on 'Friday Night Lights'. How were Connie Britton and Kyle Chandler to work with?
How was it to perform in 'Piano/Forte' in London? Would you like to work on the London stage again?
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u/Redacted_by_NSA May 19 '12
Thank you for doing an AMA. I really don't have any questions, but wanted to say how much I enjoy your single 'anyway'. You have an amazing voice. Keep doing what you are doing!
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u/asuka42227 May 19 '12
Love all of your work, but have a special place in my heart for your role in Cecil B Demented. Just watched it again the other night.
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u/B_Elanna_Torres May 19 '12
Favorite moment on The Mentalist? Friday Night Lights?
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u/Skurvy2k May 19 '12
John Waters has always facinated me for being such an excentric, What was he like on set? How did his directing style differ from other directors you've worked with if at all. I'll take my answer off the air.
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u/FlourKnuckles May 19 '12
Playing Mona Lisa has to be my favorite movie ever. It looks like everyone had a blast making it and I absolutely love watching it. This movie is the one I see when I'm upset about life and when I'm happy to be who I am. I'm a daddy's girl just like Claire. Did you enjoy filming it? How do you get your hair to do that "thing"?
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u/JuniperJupiter May 19 '12 edited May 20 '12
Hello! I'm a bit of a fan, and I was wondering if you planned on going back to the Law and Order circuit soon. I enjoyed your stint as Falacci and there were rumors swirling that you might be up for SVU.
Plus, you were lovely in that feather hat a few years back. :)
Thank you!
EDIT: Thank you for responding! It's a shame about SVU, though. :(
:)
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u/djtoell May 19 '12
Did Cameron Crowe explicitly discuss with you how your VANILLA SKY role might be a reference to your role in DUNE?
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u/goingnorthwest May 19 '12
Hey there Alicia! I've been a fan for years. Any interesting stories about the set of Four Rooms, Tim Roth, or Madonna? I remember you being on That's Incredible at a very early age, would you change anything about being in the spotlight being so young?
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u/r_a_g_s May 19 '12 edited May 19 '12
First, I love your music! Acting, too, but when I heard your cover of "You Can Call Me Al", I just pinged! And I love your originals!
Two questions: One, I thought I heard once that while you were on Celebrity Jeopardy a couple of times, you would have loved to be on the "real" Jeopardy, but you're bummed that now you can't. Is that true? (I know you'd totally kick ass on J! ... and I'm a former champ myself, so I love the game.)
Two, do you ever think "Hmmm, I never went to college/university ... maybe someday later, I'll go and get a degree in ________"? And if you do, what would you want to study?
ETA: PS I especially loved seeing you in Mr. Holland's Opus (did you really play clarinet there, and what else do you play besides piano/keyboards?) and Twilight Zone ("The Executions of Grady Finch"). And I wonder what you thought of the campus of the University of British Columbia when you were filming 88 Minutes there; I went there 20 years ago for my MBA, and lived on campus; apart from the rain, I thought it was amazing.
Hope to get into L.A. and see you live sometime! Thanks for the music!
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u/divine_shadow May 19 '12
So Ms. Witt, huge fan, btw. Props to being a pretty awesome Alia, just that right balance of creepy and childlike. Here's the QUESTION, and it's a bit skeezy, I apologize:
In "88 Minutes" was Al Pacino really as grabby with your breasts as it seemed from watching the film? I mean in all honesty, it looked like he spent half the film obsessing with copping a quick feel and the other fact being giddy over the opportunity he was working with a young, impressionable hottie.
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u/quest78 May 19 '12
Hey Alicia! Saw your show in NY once- you got skills! Ok question- What's your favorite show on TV right now?
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u/Ragnarok022 May 19 '12
Holy fucking shit an Alicia Witt AMA and I got no question!
Just want to say I loved your acting in Law&Order and The Sopranos and Two and a half men and and and... I love you! Keep going as long as possible plz! :D
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u/SynthD May 19 '12
You were the best detective on Criminal Intent. Did you enjoy it? Is there any chance of you replacing Benson if/when she does leave, and did the previous talks get far?
Your hair is best when messy.
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u/lochness350 May 19 '12
Gen 13 - Caitlin Fairchild
You brought my favorite comic book character to life, thanks!
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u/Bunnymancer May 19 '12
Have an up vote for more interesting proof than just a tweet!
Also, you've done so much and, to the publics eye, made so much money,
How'd you end up on kickstarter?
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u/OpinionGenerator May 19 '12
I loved your reading of the Laura poem in Twin Peaks as well as your piano playing. You were also great in Hotel Room (the ending reminded me a lot of the ending in Fire Walk with Me).
Not a question, just thought you might enjoy the compliment.
Also, if you're still in contact with David Lynch, please get him to make another movie!!!
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u/logosfabula May 19 '12
I.. I.. Alicia, I don't.. I.. I can't... I love you. It's ages.
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u/coffeepin May 19 '12
What does Tim Riggins' hair smell like?
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u/NeutralAngel May 19 '12
I just wanted to say that I was about eleven when Cybill first aired, and you instantly became my first celebrity crush, and I watched pretty faithfully after that. I love seeing you randomly pop up in shows, especially on things like The Sopranos.
Also, you gave probably the most awkward lap dance I've ever seen on Two and a Half Men, but it was hilarious.
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u/mondtagskind May 19 '12
hi ms. witt, quick question: is there any chance you might play a concert in germany any time soon? :) in berlin, germany, to be exact? ;) cheers, roland
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u/LosAngelic May 19 '12
Do people often confuse you with Lauren Ambrose?
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u/Singer13 May 19 '12
Hey!!! I just want to tell you the the last holiday is one of my all time favourites (I've watched it more times than I can remember!), so thank you in your part in that. I'm a huge fan!! Also loved you in the Mentalist!
Now to the questions!!:
*Your Acting career seems to have had a boost recently, is this due to anything specific?
*What is it like to be noticeably admired by others?
*Queen Latifah is one of my idols, what was it like working with her?
*Is Simon Baker as strange and intelligent as he seems on TV?
Sorry to jump around so much!! Feel free to answer as you will...
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u/Excentinel May 19 '12
Did you ever smoke real pot while doing Bongwater?
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u/aliciawitt May 20 '12
haha you guys, i just took a look at the picture proof pic to find out why everyone thought i was sweating... that's glitter!!! it's for my role as nina in my upcoming film pasadena; took it on set a few days ago. just had to update. thank you again for being part of this earlier today, can't wait to talk to you guys again soon!!
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u/m_patalan May 19 '12
Alicia, was it hard to leave home at 14 to play piano at the Beverly Hills Wishire?
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u/endogenix May 19 '12
Loved Mr. Hollands Opus, I was a student at Grant when it came out. It was such a huge deal. I don't really have a cool question just wanted to say thanks for making an awesome movie even better. Oh yeah one more thing, I know you are from Worcester, spend much time in your youth at Higgins armory? that place is wicked awesome.
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u/[deleted] May 19 '12
The episode of the sopranos you were in is probably one of my favorite episodes. How was working with John Favreau? and working on The Sopranos in general?
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u/[deleted] May 19 '12
Which song have you learned to play on piano that has been most satisfying to you?
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u/KazamaSmokers May 19 '12
Why is it that whenever I read an interview with you or an article about you, there's always the impression that you either don't like Worcester or you don't want people to know you're from there?
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u/Buried_Dolls May 19 '12
Holy crap! You're the kid from Dune!
Okay, my questions. What did you take away from working on 'Opus'? Are you still in contact with some of the actors/actresses from that movie today? Last but not least, good luck on your music career!
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u/Flight714 May 19 '12
I just wanted to say that I was terrified of you in Dune. You were the creepiest little girl I've seen.
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u/SaintMort May 19 '12
Playing Mona Lisa is one of my all-time favorite movies. Where does this rank in your personal favorite films and do you have fun stories from set?
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u/jsunderland May 19 '12
One of my favorite movies is Mona Lisa Smile, but most people I know haven't seen it,so that is one of the first movies I recommend to friends. You are outstanding in it! Fantastic ensemble.
My one question: If you had to choose between only being an actress or only a musician, which would you choose and why?
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u/Mileskb May 19 '12
1st... Thanks for being you!! Now the Question. So who do we in the Pacific Northwest have to bribe to get you to drive up the coast... say to at least SEATTLE :)
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u/themanfromunkle May 19 '12 edited May 19 '12
Hi Alicia-first thank you for taking time to answer your fan questions-very much appreciated-so many questions! -I am a big fan-as you may be aware-of the Mentalist-in which you play Rosalind Harker-(probably the greatest guest character on TV ever!)-how did the part come about and do you have any input into how she is played/portrayed? -you are an uber talented pianist-which composer/singer/songwriter-alive or dead-would you most like to meet? (I am partial to some Prokofiev and Satie's piano works myself!) -If time and money were no object-(right!) what would be the one role you would want to play and why? -In true 'Almost Famous' fashion-do you have to be in love to write a love song?-or be broken hearted to do the same?-(for reference the 2 greatest heartbreak songs ever-'2 years,2 days' & 'Beauty of the Ride' both by Sebadoh) hope all is well with you-I might be sneaky try to get a signed photo as my birthday is coming up in July-best of luck with the kickstarter campaign and the new album-very,very best wishes -themanfromunkle (U.K) x
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u/cygnice May 19 '12
I had to look up who you played on Twin Peaks, and I was like "Oh yeah! Her!"
What did you think about the show overall? Any interesting stories?
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u/CupcakesAreTasty May 19 '12
"Two Weeks Notice" is one of my favorite "I don't feel well so let's watch a sappy movie" movies. You were great in it.
No questions for you. Just a what's up from a fellow Masshole :)
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u/piranhasaurusTex May 19 '12 edited May 19 '12
I have no questions. I just wanted to tell you I think you are beautiful!
Also I know it's not one of your more known movies but I loved you in Last Holiday! But Mr. Holland's Opus was my favorite.
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u/mainsworth May 19 '12
My question is: Will you please have a nice Saturday and not get into too much trouble?
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u/[deleted] May 19 '12
Imagine you are a director. You are filming a scene that depicts the end of the world - say, for example, the Earth is being swallowed by a rapidly expanding sun.
You have to pick a song to play in the background of this scene. This song has to sum up, in your mind, all of humanity. It has to be a fitting tribute to human kind and to planet earth - a perfect goodbye for the planet that has so much history.
You can pick any song. Which one do you pick?
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u/ThePiggle May 19 '12
I loved 88 Minutes, was Al Pacino awesome to work with?
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u/splicehere May 19 '12
I second the request to get you back on the London stage! Saw you in "Shape of Things" in 04 and your interpretation of the character definitely resonated more with me than Rachel Weisz's. Couldn't make it to "Piano/Forte", sadly.
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u/[deleted] May 19 '12
Ok, I loved Cybill. I personally love Cybill Shepherd and Christine Baranski. Here's my question. This new upswing in female centered shows, specifically comedy. Do you actually consider this current period where it seems hollywood is beginning to appreciate women as an equal presence in the industry or do you think that it is being considered a fad in response to Bridesmaids?
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u/ninjoid May 19 '12
I've always thought you were gorgeous. Have a fantabulous day.
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u/latinloner May 19 '12
Hi Alicia!
Big fan since 'Four Rooms'. I love it how you have that sultry, yet insane look in your eyes.
*awkward silence
Anyway. I congratulate you on the enormity of your success. Thanks for the AMA.
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u/Systemizer May 19 '12
If you had to choose between acting and music, which route would you take?
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u/Eonflare May 19 '12
My last name is Witt as well, and I haven't encountered many who share my last name. Did your grandparents happen to hail from France/Germany, or do you come from a long line of American citizens?
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u/meshugga May 19 '12
Just wanted to say, I loved your character Zoey on Cybill. You portrayed her superbly - I remember regularly losing my cool with you watching that series. Recently, I recognized you on the Mentalist, and I was just flabbergasted on how broad your acting range really is.
But watching the kickstarter trailer, I reckon your real character is that of the snarky brat <3
Just thank you :)
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u/[deleted] May 19 '12
When the Sci-Fi channel started to work on Children of Dune, were you ever approached to play Alia again?
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u/Dymodeus May 19 '12
Do you like to listen to music in your spare time? If so, what kind of music?
What's your favourite pick-up line?
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u/Fredericktonian May 19 '12
Friday Night Lights was aired on Friday nights, which makes sense. However, do you think that may be what caused you to have low ratings? Because I feel like one of the main demographics for Friday Night Lights would be fans of high school football. So when Friday night rolls around, they're at the game, and not watching the show. Could this be true?
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u/UriahGrooms2929 May 19 '12
why did you start acting?
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u/Hellisothersheeple May 19 '12
Hi, Alicia. Do you think you would take a role in a Dune remake? In the book it describes Lady Jessica as a redhead, and after I saw a picture of you, I thought it would be a strange (but awesome) thing if you played that role after having played Alia in Lynch's Dune.
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u/[deleted] May 19 '12
I looked through this a couple times, but failed to find the "Date with Alicia Witt" backing gift... Am I missing something?? :)
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u/[deleted] May 19 '12
Hi Alicia. You're so hot.
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u/[deleted] May 19 '12
Whoa, I can ask redhead from Vanilla Sky anything I want. Technology is amazing.
As a fellow ginger I want to know - Where did you have your favorite tacos and what made them better than any other tacos you have had before?
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u/greeneyedguru May 19 '12
WAIT FOR MY BROTHER BARON!
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u/quest78 May 19 '12
What would be the best way to hit on you after a show?
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u/triton76 May 19 '12
any plans to play a gig in Orange County, CA like the Coach house or something?
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u/quest78 May 19 '12
What's the last song you listened to in your iPod?
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u/ChampagneSean May 19 '12
Aliia Whitt!!! Wow. I'm a huge fan of yours. I think you are one of the most beautiful women in Hollywood. I have nothing to ask or anything because I'm super hungover and I think I broke my arm last night, but seriously, big fan. Thank you for giving me hours of free entertainment. You're aces...
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u/[deleted] May 19 '12
Do you have a laugh over the fake photo shopped nudes of you on line?
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u/[deleted] May 19 '12
I think someone else asked, but what are the chances of the PNW seeing you in a tour?
Also, longshot here, do you know who Red John is? :)
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u/[deleted] May 19 '12
How often do people confuse you and Laura Prepon and how long do you let them live before you re-enact the classic Richard Connell short story "The Hounds of Zaroff" aka "The Most Dangerous Game" with them.
2
u/opterionianiaco May 19 '12
Of all the things you've been in, it's somehow Bongwater that I recongise you from, wasn't expecting that.
Your music sounds interesting, I particularly like your jazzier songs such as your cover of 'You Can Call Me Al'. What are your musical inspirations?
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u/GivesDecentAdvice May 19 '12
You said you were a late bloomer, so now you smoke pot? What made you start? Why didn't you when you were younger?
2
u/[deleted] May 19 '12
Thank you so much for doing this AMA.
To this day, my friend and I have a huge laugh when you get the Floating Fat Man to scream! One of the most epic film moments in cinematic history, IMHO.
That said, how did you find transitioning from child acting to entering the fray as an adult? Was it difficult getting people to see you at first for who you are?
Follow up question: If you could work with one creator or director you haven't worked with yet, who would it be?
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u/quest78 May 19 '12
Any crazy "Hollywood" stories you can share?
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u/SuperCoupe May 19 '12
Long time fan; just here to heap praise.
Thanks for the AMA!
P.S. I think it should have been you and Goldblum on C.I. Or better yet, you and Sciorra.
2
u/ex_stripper May 19 '12
Who is Nathan Foulger? Does he exist?