Exclusive Interview: Loretta Devine Discusses Working with Jennifer Love Hewitt on ‘The Client List’
Los Angeles, CA – Actress Loretta Devine has had a long and illustrious career, with notable roles in films like ‘Waiting to Exhale’ and TV shows like ‘Grey’s Anatomy’. Her latest project, the popular TV series ‘The Client List’, saw her working alongside talented star Jennifer Love Hewitt. In an exclusive interview, Devine shares her experiences working with Hewitt and the challenges of bringing the show to life.
PW: Loretta, what drew you to ‘The Client List’ and the character of Dr. Kate Reid?
LD: I was drawn to the show’s unique premise, which explores the lives of massage therapists working in a strip club. It’s a fascinating and complex world that touches on themes of identity, morality, and the human condition. As Dr. Kate Reid, I play a counselor who helps these women process their emotions and work through their issues, often blurring the lines between their personal and professional lives. It’s a challenging and thought-provoking role that I was excited to take on.
PW: You had the opportunity to work alongside Jennifer Love Hewitt, who plays the lead role of Riley. What was it like working with her?
LD: Jennifer is an absolute pleasure to work with! She’s a true professional, always prepared and respectful of her fellow actors. We had a great dynamic on set, and I think our characters’ chemistry on screen is a testament to our strong rapport off camera. Jennifer’s got a lot of heart, and she brings a genuine emotional depth to the role of Riley. We had some amazing scenes together, and I think audiences will really respond to our performances.
PW: ‘The Client List’ tackles some heavy topics, including prostitution, trauma, and exploitation. How did you prepare for these emotionally demanding scenes?
LD: Preparation was key for me. I did a lot of research on the characters, the setting, and the themes, to ensure I was fully immersed in the world of the show. I also worked closely with the writers and the director to understand their vision for the story and to make sure I was delivering what they needed from me. When it came to the more intense scenes, I relied on my own experiences and emotions to draw from, while also taking care to not get too caught up in the drama. It’s a delicate balance, but I think it pays off in the performances.
PW: What was the most challenging part of your experience on ‘The Client List’?
LD: Generally, the most challenging aspect was the emotional demand of the role. Playing a character like Dr. Kate Reid requires a lot of emotional labor, and I had to be mentally and physically prepared to get into that headspace every day. The show’s themes and topics can be triggering, so it was important for me to take care of myself and my mental health throughout the production.
PW: Looking back on your time on ‘The Client List’, what are you most proud of?
LD: I’m proud of the work we accomplished as an ensemble, and I think we really brought a level of authenticity to the show. We tackled difficult topics, but we did it with sensitivity and compassion. I’m also proud of the positive impact the show has had on some of our viewers, who have shared with us how the show has helped them process their own experiences or relate to the characters’ struggles.
PW: Finally, what do you hope audiences take away from ‘The Client List’?
LD: I hope audiences leave with a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding the sex industry and the people involved. I also hope they’re inspired by the resilience and strength of our characters, who are often misunderstood or marginalized. At its core, the show is about human connection and the power of empathy, which is something I believe we all need more of in our world today.
As ‘The Client List’ comes to a close, Loretta Devine’s performance as Dr. Kate Reid is a testament to her versatility and range as an actress. Her dedication to the role and her passion for the project shine through in every episode, making her a standout in this talented ensemble cast.
