Talking True Blood

After seven seasons, the iconic HBO series True Blood has come to a conclusion. Still fresh from the airing of the finale, Nelsan Ellis, Michael McMillian, and Kristin Bauer discussed the impact the show has had on them on Saturday in the Hyatt Centennial II-III.

One of the first questions asked was how much the writers changed the character to fit the actor’s personality. McMillian was quick to jump on the question stating that when Steve Newlin came back as a vampire, Newlin was more like his humor and personality. Bauer said that while she never changed her lines, Ellis was the king of changes and adding words. Ellis responded that the writers did change Lafayette’s personality to reflect his laid back attitude.

Another great question was that, after playing such iconic characters, where do you go from here? They all agreed that when you are playing the character, you don’t consider your role as iconic. Going forward, as actors, they always hope that the next role will be epic.

Fan reactions to meeting their favorite characters are always an interesting topic. The panel discussed the various things fans say and do upon meeting them. Ellis said that women come up to him and say: “if you’re gay, I want to turn you.” Poor McMillian quickly jumped in and said “I played a gay character, and women never come up to me and ask to turn me!” He even had a great follow-up line: “You can turn me, and I’ll turn you on.” For McMillian, he’s never been more hated. “(They) say ‘I hate you, and I hate your character.’ Can’t you pick just one? Both sides of me are offended.”

Being a vampire isn’t all that it is cracked up to be. Both Bauer and McMillian agreed that the pale make-up applied to make them look undead also made them seem older, fatter, and shorter. #VampireProblems

Author of the article

Not everyone can say they watch television for homework, read novels for inspiration, and are paid to follow what’s trending. For Alicia Pack, it is all part of life as a writer and media enthusiast.  When she isn't lost in the world she is trying to create, you can find her with her nose in a book or catching up on her favorite supernatural shows.  She has a Master’s degree in Mass Communications and a Bachelor’s degree in Radio, Television, and Film.  Her nine years of diverse media experience include news writing, copywriting, website content management, social media, promotions, television production, and teaching.

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