There’s something about crime shows that my family and I can’t seem to get enough of. So, when I had the chance to chat with Amanda Green, the Co-Executive Producer, and writers Margaret Easley and Laura Putney from the dramedy “The Mysteries Of Laura,” let’s just say I was a tad excited.

Photo Credit: NBC

Getting to Know The Show

For those who are not familiar with the show, it stars Debra Messing as Laura Diamond, a brilliant NYPD homicide detective. Laura not only navigates her demanding job but also manages her chaotic family life. She’s a mother to two mischievous twin boys and is dealing with an ex-husband — who also happens to be a cop — that just can’t seem to finalize their divorce.

The show brilliantly encapsulates what being a “working mom” truly entails in today’s society. From cleaning up after her boys to cleaning up the streets, Laura has her fair share of “hot mess” moments. But somehow, she manages to juggle it all with the help of her supportive partner. Things, however, get even more complicated when her ex-husband ironically becomes her boss at the precinct. Laura’s daily life is a high-wire balancing act.

Diving Deeper into the Show

Before the interview, I had not seen the show but found myself binge-watching episode after episode online. The recent episode where Laura’s old “Will & Grace” Co-Star Eric McCormack guest stars as her ex-fiancé and a prime suspect in a murder case was particularly entertaining. Yes, the show is a crime drama, but its comedy infusion certainly lightens the mood.

Behind the Scenes with Co-Executive Producer & Writers

Now, let’s get to the exciting part, the behind-the-scenes look with Co-Executive Producer Amanda Green and writers Margaret Easley and Laura Putney.

During the interview, I found out that Debra Messing wasn’t required to audition for the role of Laura. This wasn’t a surprise considering her iconic status and strong presence. She was a dream choice for the team, who felt extremely fortunate that she agreed to do the show. Debra, being a mother herself, brings her personal parenting experiences to the role, making it more authentic.

Photo Credit: NBC

Real-Life Parenting Experiences

Iris Barreto from Fangirlish asked if the twins on the show were inspired by the writers’ own children. The response was a resounding “Yes.” The team often pulls directly from their own parenting experiences, adding an authentic touch to the twin’s antics on the show.

Interesting Guest Stars

Tara Settembre from The Huffington Post asked about the interesting guest stars on the show. Amanda and Laura hinted at some exciting appearances to come but remained tight-lipped about the specifics.

Inspiration Behind Laura’s Character

When Dusty Bastian from As Mom Sees It asked about the inspiration behind Laura’s character, the team revealed that the show is based on a popular Spanish show called “Los Misterios de Laura.” The Spanish version of Laura, much like our Laura, is a mother striving to find the balance between work and family.

While the storylines are independent and not adapted from the Spanish show, the character of Laura, flawed yet persevering, was a draw. The team, along with Debra herself, have shaped the character using their personal parenting stories, lending authenticity to Laura’s character.

Photo Credit: NBC

Wrapping Up

Getting an insight into how a show is put together, from the characters to the episodes, is fascinating. “The Mysteries of Laura” is a collaborative effort of writers, producers, and actors, all striving to create a relatable and entertaining show that draws viewers in week after week.

The show returned with all-new episodes on Wednesday, March 25 at 8/7c. The episode titled “The Mystery of the Intoxicated Intern” saw the detectives probe the murder of an intern at a trendy tech startup, while Laura struggled to find time for intimacy with her new beau.

Photo Credit: NBC

For more about “The Mysteries of Laura,” visit http://www.nbc.com/the-mysteries-of-laura, https://www.facebook.com/TheMysteriesofLaura, and https://twitter.com/NBCLaura.

The Intricacies of Crafting “The Mysteries of Laura”

Creating a show like “The Mysteries of Laura” is no simple task. It requires a perfect blend of intriguing plotlines, relatable characters, and a dash of humor. It’s all about finding the right balance, much like our titular character Laura Diamond herself.

The Art of Storytelling

When crafting each episode, the writers have to ensure that they keep the viewers on the edge of their seats. This is achieved by weaving intricate murder mysteries that are both compelling and thought-provoking. However, what makes the show stand out from other crime dramas is its unique blend of humor. The team works tirelessly to insert comedic moments that lighten the otherwise intense atmosphere, providing a much-needed breather amidst the suspense.

Character Development

One of the most challenging aspects of writing a show is creating characters that are both flawed and relatable. Laura Diamond is not just a brilliant detective; she is also a mother, an ex-wife, and a woman trying to juggle her professional and personal life. The writers have done an exceptional job in portraying her as a strong, independent woman who, despite her many roles, never loses her sense of self.

The Importance of Authenticity

During the interview, the team emphasized the importance of authenticity in their storytelling. They often draw inspiration from their own experiences, especially when it comes to portraying the chaotic yet endearing dynamics of Laura’s family. This personal touch adds a layer of realism to the show, making the characters more relatable to the audience.

Guest Appearances

Guest appearances are another exciting aspect of the show. The team hinted at some exciting guest stars in the future, adding another layer of anticipation for the viewers. These guest appearances not only bring a fresh perspective to the show but also provide an opportunity for the writers to experiment with new storylines and character dynamics.

Adapting from the Original

The show is an adaptation of the Spanish show “Los Misterios de Laura.” While the team maintains the essence of the original character, they have also reinvented Laura to suit the sensibilities of their target audience. This process of adaptation requires a deep understanding of both cultures and a knack for storytelling that resonates with viewers across the globe.

Conclusion

Creating a show like “The Mysteries of Laura” is a complex process that involves meticulous planning, exceptional writing, and a deep understanding of the audience. The result is a show that is not just entertaining but also thought-provoking and relatable. The team’s passion for their work is evident in every episode, making “The Mysteries of Laura” a must-watch for all crime drama enthusiasts.

FAQs

What is “The Mysteries of Laura” about?
The show centers around Laura Diamond, a brilliant NYPD homicide detective who balances her demanding job with her chaotic family life.

Who are the main characters in the show?
The main characters are Laura Diamond, her ex-husband, and their twin boys. The show also features numerous guest stars.

What makes “The Mysteries of Laura” unique?
The show’s blend of crime drama and comedy sets it apart from other shows in the genre. Additionally, the character of Laura as a working mom adds a layer of relatability that is often missing in crime dramas.

Where can I watch “The Mysteries of Laura”?
“The Mysteries of Laura” can be streamed on NBC’s official website and other streaming platforms.

1. **What is “The Mysteries of Laura” about?**
The show stars Debra Messing as Laura Diamond, a brilliant NYPD homicide detective who not only navigates her demanding job but also manages her chaotic family life. She’s a mother to two mischievous twin boys and is dealing with an ex-husband — who also happens to be a cop — that just can’t seem to finalize their divorce.

2. **Who are the writers and producers of the show?**
The show is co-produced by Amanda Green, and writers include Margaret Easley and Laura Putney.

3. **Was Debra Messing required to audition for the role of Laura?**
No, Debra Messing was not required to audition for the role of Laura. She was a dream choice for the team, who felt extremely fortunate that she agreed to do the show.

4. **Are the twins on the show inspired by the writers’ own children?**
Yes, the writers often pull directly from their own parenting experiences, adding an authentic touch to the twin’s antics on the show.

5. **Are there any interesting guest stars on the show?**
The show has had a number of interesting guest stars, including Eric McCormack. However, the team has remained tight-lipped about future guest appearances.

6. **What was the inspiration behind Laura’s character?**
The show is based on a popular Spanish show called “Los Misterios de Laura.” The Spanish version of Laura is a mother striving to find the balance between work and family.

7. **Are the storylines adapted from the Spanish show?**
No, the storylines are independent and not adapted from the Spanish show. However, the character of Laura, flawed yet persevering, was a draw.

8. **When does the show air?**
The show returned with all-new episodes on Wednesday, March 25 at 8/7c.

9. **Where can I find more about “The Mysteries of Laura”?**
For more about “The Mysteries of Laura,” visit http://www.nbc.com/the-mysteries-of-laura, https://www.facebook.com/TheMysteriesofLaura, and https://twitter.com/NBCLaura.

MySparklingLife

iRig Keys and iRig Keys PRO for Android, iOS, Mac and PC

ByMySparklingLife December 24, 2016October 6, 2023

IK Multimedia, the leader in mobile music creation technology, is pleased to announce that its iRig® Keys range of highly regarded mobile keyboard controllers is going universal. Both the ultra-portable iRig Keys and mobile full-size keyboard iRig Keys PRO controllers will now come with a Micro-USB to OTG cable for Android devices in addition to their Lightning and USB cables. Now, for the exact same affordable price, players can plug in and jam out on a compact and fully functional keyboard with an even wider array of their favorite mobile devices than ever before – iRig Keys and iRig Keys PRO are now ready to go with Lightning-compatible iOS devices and Android devices as well as Mac/PC right out of the box.
Portable performance
The iRig Keys line has established itself as a firm favorite of keyboard players across the world. iRig Keys (previously named iRig Keys with Lightning) is an ultra-slim and extremely portable MIDI keyboard controller with 37 mini-keys. iRig Keys PRO is a similarly slim keyboard that gives players the luxury of 37 full-sized keys in a controller that can be easily carried in a gig bag or backpack. Both deliver a full 3 octave range (plus one note) and come equipped with all the extras that keyboard players love: mod and pitch bend wheels, a Volume/Data knob, a SET button for storage and recall of up to 4 different custom setups, input for a sustain or expression pedal and more. With compact size and advanced features, the iRig Keys line offers keyboard players a portable playing experience like no other.
Complete compatibility
With the arrival of this announcement, both iRig Keys and iRig Keys PRO are compatible with more devices than ever before. Each now comes boxed with Lightning, Micro-USB to OTG and USB cables. This means that they can be immediately used with Lightning-compatible iOS devices, Android devices and Mac/PC right out of the box. In addition, an optional 30-pin cable can also be purchased for use with 30-pin iOS devices. And no matter what device is used, both iRig Keys and iRig Keys PRO deliver a seamless plug-and-play experience thanks to built-in Core MIDI compatibility for iOS and USB class compliance.
Killer apps and software
Creativity starts immediately with iRig Keys and iRig Keys PRO thanks to their extensive suite of included apps for iOS and Android, plus software for Mac/PC. These apps are powerful IK Multimedia fan favorites and they all come with extra material for registered iRig Keys and iRig Keys PRO users.
iRig Keys and iRig Keys PRO are also fully compatible with Apple’s GarageBand and Logic Pro X, and compatible with a wide variety of third party apps and software, like Samsung Soundcamp, Cubasis, MultiTrack DAW and more.
Pricing and availability
iRig Keys and iRig Keys PRO are available now from music and electronics retailers worldwide, and from the IK online store, for $/€129.99 and $/€149.99 respectively (excluding taxes).
Users who purchase an iRig Keys with Lightning or iRig Keys PRO starting October 1, 2015 are eligible to receive Micro-USB to OTG cable at no cost, if one is not included. Contact IK Support to request the cable. Eligible users must register the product and provide proof of purchase.

Strawberry Banana Smoothie

ByMySparklingLife January 7, 2020September 16, 2023

This post may contain affiliate links which fund the My Sparkling Life blog.
This is a sponsored post through The Women Bloggers, LLC. which is led by the Kendal King Group on behalf of Nestle. All opinions are 100% my own. #CookingwithGerber
If you remember I shared about a week or so ago my Homemade Cranberry Almond Oatmeal Bars which my family absolutely loves, and you guys seemed to love them too…so today I thought I would share another use for Gerber cereal & foods in the form of a Strawberry Banana Smoothie!
Now if you’ve made smoothies before you know how easy they are and how the whole family just runs to the kitchen when you make them. These are no exception, and they will NEVER know you used Gerber “baby food” products. All the products used can be found at walmart…when running around with the boys, I love a one stop shop! And like I said before it’s organic, has plenty of vitamins & minerals and comes in many varieties to suit your taste…it’s a total game-changer for a homemade healthy snack!
Strawberry Banana Smoothies Delicious Strawberry Banana Smoothies using Gerber baby & toddler products.
2 Gerber Strawberry Banana yogurts
1/4 – 1/2 cup Gerber Oatmeal
1 cup Frozen Strawberries
1 – 2 Bananas (the more ripe the sweeter)
1 cup Vanilla Almond Milk
Fresh Strawberries (for garnish)
Blend ingredients together in blender until smooth
Garnish with fresh strawberry
My Sparkling Life https://mysparklinglife.com/
You can find more delicious recipes & info on Gerber products on their website.
Have you ever used Gerber Cereal or food as a substitute? What creative or fun ideas do you have?
ENTER TO WIN!
One (1) lucky My Sparkling Life reader is going to win a $50 Gift Card. This giveaway is open to residents of the US who are 18+ until 12:00 PM EST June 16, 2016.
THE FINE PRINT: ENTERING THIS GIVEAWAY MEANS THAT YOU ACCEPT BOTH MY RULES & DISCLOSURE. I WILL NOTIFY WINNER VIA E-MAIL AND THEY WILL HAVE 48 HOURS TO REPLY BEFORE I AM FORCED TO REDRAW WINNERS. NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED. EACH HOUSEHOLD IS ONLY ELIGIBLE TO WIN THIS PRIZE VIA BLOG REVIEWS AND GIVEAWAYS ONCE. ONLY ONE ENTRANT PER MAILING ADDRESS PER GIVEAWAY. IF YOU HAVE WON THE SAME PRIZE ON ANOTHER BLOG, YOU WILL NOT BE ELIGIBLE TO WIN IT AGAIN. WINNER IS SUBJECT TO ELIGIBILITY VERIFICATION. MANY WILL ENTER, FEW WILL WIN! PLEASE ALLOW 8-12 WEEKS FOR DELIVERY OF PRIZING. MY SPARKLING LIFE IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY LOST OR MISDIRECTED PACKAGES. PRIZING PROVIDED AND SHIPPED BY Canvas People. IN THE RARE OCCASION THAT A PRIZE DOES NOT ARRIVE (WHICH HAS HAPPENED), PLEASE NOTIFY ME.
Disclosure of Material Connection: This is a “sponsored post.” The company who sponsored it compensated me via a cash payment, gift, or something else of value to write it. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Key Facts About Maternal Mortality That Are Important to Know ⋆ My Sparkling Life

ByMySparklingLife January 26, 2020July 1, 2024

The majority of maternal deaths occur in areas that don’t have access to a high level of healthcare. For instance, the highest maternal mortality rates were recorded in areas such as Sub-Saharan Africa. However, that doesn’t mean that well-developed parts of the world such as Europe and the United States are free from the concerns of maternal mortality.
In fact, the maternal mortality rate in the United States has been rising. Between 2000 and 2015, the figures rose by 16.6% while the global maternal mortality rate decreased by 36.6%. The United States was one of six countries to even see an increase during that time and was the only developed country to appear on the list.
This raises many concerns, such as what’s causing it and why is it happening.
Below, we’ve included an informative graphic that helps to break down maternal mortality rates and how to decrease the chances of it happening. If you’re expecting a child soon or want to start a family in the future, then it’s incredibly important that you understand those statistics and how you can drastically improve your chances of living a healthy life with your child.

Self Care and Your Health: Love Your Heart

ByMySparklingLife February 19, 2020August 29, 2024

However, so many of us jump giddily head-first into the idea of self-care without stopping to think what it means. Self-care is more than just cosmetics and lattes, a new outfit or a night out with friends. Yes, those things are all essential to staying happy, but…if you aren’t looking after your physical self, the efforts to mend your mental self won’t go very far.
Women aren’t taking care of themselves. They aren’t taking care of their health. More specifically, they aren’t looking after their hearts.
Heart Disease is the leading killer of women in America. It has been the leading killer for years now, but the numbers aren’t dwindling. Why? Because women neglect their heart health. Women, who bare the brunt of domestic work, emotional labor and family stress, are carrying all of that inside them, and aren’t doing the work to alleviate that stress in the form of good diet, exercise and therapy. All of this strain goes straight to the heart, as it were. And then when big problems do arise, women often overlook them, assuming that chest pain is just another panic attack or a case of indigestion. Or, in some cases, fear keeps us away from the doctor: we’re afraid of what we’ll find, so we just keep working. The whole place will fall apart without us anyway, right?
But we can’t keep neglecting our heart health. Doctors have begun urging female patients to take steps to better their heart health, and to see doctors when there’s cause for concern. For cardiologists like Michael Seawell MD, a healthy heart starts with understanding how best to care for your physical health, and that understanding begins when you see a doctor who specializes in heart care. He believes that women should stop putting off their physical health and ignoring signs that there may be a problem. Dr. Seawell and his colleagues know that the best way to practice self-care is to make the necessary changes to your diet, exercise and mental health to ensure that your ticker keeps on ticking for years to come.
Of course, the nail polish and Netflix help, too.

Disney Create Tomorrowland & XPRIZE Challenge Winners Choosen ⋆ My Sparkling Life

ByMySparklingLife March 29, 2016October 11, 2023

The Walt Disney Studios and Disney Citizenship, in collaboration with XPRIZE, announced the winners of the DISNEY CREATE TOMORROWLAND & XPRIZE CHALLENGE. Kids between the ages of 8 and 17 were asked to imagine themselves in the future and report back about one new technology that is positively affecting humanity.
A panel of XPRIZE judges reviewed submissions and selected six winners, three from the Junior Division (8-12 years old) and three from the Senior Division (13-17 years old). Challenge submissions were scored based on originality, creativity and presentation. The winners and their ideas are as follows:
Gabrielle Nafie, age 9, of New York, New York, envisioned a robotic origami bee called a bee origamibot. These tiny robots are activated by sunlight, function like real bees by pollinating plants vital to our survival and offset the global decline of the actual insect.
Maxwell Fung, age 11, of North Syracuse, New York, imagined a world with no pain thanks to the invention of the pain-blocking nanobot. These teeny metal bots are administered orally prior to surgery to inhibit nerve endings from transferring chemicals that induce pain. The nanobots are removed through the kidneys, result in little to no side effects and are non-addictive.
Jason Jackrel, age 12, of North Bellmore, New York, invented the hydrogen-powered scooter, the preferred transportation of the future. By utilizing hydrogen, which emits water, instead of fossil fuels, the hydrogen-powered scooter eliminates C02 emissions.
Clarissa Katko, age 15, of Dansville, Michigan, developed a cure for cancer through genetic therapy. By harnessing the genetic makeup of mole rats, whose genes have a high resistance to runway cell growth, humanity will be able to eradicate cancer and extend life expectancy.
Adrianne Camero, age 15, of Miami, Florida, devised the Magnēs Lithos Chair, a more efficient and adaptable alternative to the wheelchair. The Magnēs Lithos Chair utilizes the Earth’s electromagnetic field to levitate and is maneuvered by the user’s mind.
Natalie Cummings, age 16, of Canonsburg, Pennsylvania, tapped into the science of Mother Nature to create artificial trees with leaves that cleanse the air of C02 atexponential rates while also capturing solar energy to power neighboring homes.
“We are thrilled to be able to recognize the talents and imagination of these extraordinary young people,” said Sean Bailey, President, Walt Disney Studios Motion Picture Production. “The submissions showed an incredible and imaginative vision of the future, and through them, they have brought to life the same spirit and optimism that inspired us to make the film ‘Tomorrowland.’”
“The inventiveness and dexterity showcased in the submissions we received solidify that innovation can originate from anyone if given the opportunity,” said Trish Halamandaris, senior vice president marketing & communications at XPRIZE. “The Create Tomorrowland XPRIZE Challenge tasked young innovators to imagine the future and the outcome was a bright, healthy and creative tomorrow.”
Beginning in June, the six winners will have a once–in-a-lifetime mentorship experience with a leader in their area of interest. In addition, each winner will receive a $3,000 check, a 3D Printer from 3D Systems, an annual subscription to Tales2Go® and registration for FIRST® LEGO® League for the competition season 2015-2016 in the U.S.
Supporting XPRIZE Partners include FIRST® (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology), 3D Systems, IMAX Corporation, Tales2Go® and the United States Patent and Trademark Office.
To view the winning submissions, please visit http://www.xprizechallenge.org

Exclusive Interview With Jake Robinson From American Odyssey #NBC

ByMySparklingLife March 22, 2016September 19, 2023

I was lucky enough to be one of a few that were able to sit down and have an exclusive interview with Jake Robinson, who stars as political activist Harrison Walters in NBC’s conspiracy drama American Odyssey.
Robinson was born and raised in Ohio, where he was introduced to acting in his hometown of Loveland, a suburb of Cincinnati. After attending St. Xavier High School, where he caught the acting bug and performed in numerous plays and musicals, Robinson attended Otterbein University in Columbus, where he earned his B.F.A. in acting in 2012.
Upon moving to New York City, Robinson immediately started working as an actor, doing a series of independent features. He then appeared on the NBC series “Smash” in a recurring role and went on to play a recurring character on “The Carrie Diaries.”
Robinson’s New York stage credits include August Strindberg’s “The Stronger” as well as readings of “Dead Poets Society,” directed by John Doyle, and “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil,” directed by Rob Ashford.
In addition to his passion for acting, Robinson is an avid basketball player.
Were you much of a conspiracy theorist before and has it changed your attitude about these types of conspiracies, government conspiracies now?
Jake Robinson: Great question. Absolutely. I think initially I was a pretty straight-laced, like this is how they’re reporting it and this is how it must be and this is how it is. Definitely after doing the show and doing research and reading various books and kind of delving into things more, I think I’ve definitely gone out and started to question what’s right and what’s true and what’s actually going on and really trying to research myself and find answers for myself which I think is what Harrison is also doing in American Odyssey.
I think there’s certain conspiracies that are way further out there than others, some things are closer to home. And hopefully what the show does is gets people to question is this actually happening? Is this what’s going on? Is our government doing these things? And that’s what’s exciting about being on the show to me.
Do you think that’s a good thing to be questioning what we’re told?
Jake Robinson: Absolutely. I think we have to exercise our rights whether you’re a political activist, whether you’re protesting, whether just – something as simple as the right to vote which so many people don’t. Hopefully, this gets people active. I think if we have an active population and a free thinking population, then we have a better country.
Were you privy to the entirety of the first season story before you took the role, or did you have only the first couple scripts with the info and then you learned how it unfolded as shooting progressed?
Jake Robinson: Initially when I took the role I only had the pilot script, which was fantastic. There’s a couple other things that I was being considered for at the time and it was just heads and shoulders by far the best script that I read. And then what was rare about the show was all the ideas were in place before we started shooting the pilot.
So I did know the beginning and the end how to form my character before we began treating for the pilot, which was great because knowing where I was going with a clear head and able to do research that was relevant and not really waste my time or waste other people’s time about what was important and what was necessary for the character.
What are we going to see for your character over the next few episodes?
Jake Robinson: The biggest change in what happens in the occupy movement in the G8 protest and that sort of thing kind of gets left behind a little bit and it becomes much more of a personal journey for him where there’s things that are affecting his personal life, affecting his family as he delves deeper into this, and it definitely has a more personal note for him and the things that are happening around him.
That incites him even more to go after it, to uncover what’s going on, to figure out why these people are doing this, and where Odelle is and what’s going to happen to her and how it can get that out there? That ties in with some familial stuff that you’ll see actually get started in the next episode and then continues throughout. I think episode 11 it finally gets resolved for him and then there’s more stuff that happens.
Do you think social media changed the way that everybody looks at news and conspiracies versus how they used to?
Jake Robinson: Yes great question. I think it absolutely does. I think it changes – I think there’s good and a bad side to it. I think the good side to it is that people are generally more aware of what’s happening on a consistent basis. I think the bad side to it is it’s not necessary. There’s a lot more sources out there so it’s hard to really know who you’re trusting or who’s putting false information or good information out there.
I think the other bad thing about it is that social media allows people to hide behind the platform or the Internet, and they really don’t have to have a face to face interaction and there’s something to be said for being somewhere face to face with people and telling them what you believe and think versus writing whatever – a tweet – and saying, “I can’t believe this is happening” and send it out.
So I do think it’s good that it’s getting more news stories and causing discussion among people. I think that we also do have to be very careful though about what the cost is of spreading that information out there without really knowing what’s going on.
What was it not only about your character but the show as a whole that drew you to this role?
Jake Robinson: It was – I mean the initial script was just so edge-of-your-seat. Even when I was reading it… I was on the subway and I was reading the pilot script trying to decide whether I wanted to audition for it or not and I missed my train stop home because I was so engaged with what was going on and I just loved the idea.
I love the conspiracy aspect of it. I love the thriller aspect and it was incredibly relevant to what was going on as well with the political activist role and being in his 20s and struggling with a lot of things that I felt like I was searching for in my own life at the time.
And so it was a natural fit and it was really exciting. And I thought – I could tell it was going to be something big in the way it was filmed and it was going to be epic. It really came through on that at the shoot itself. It didn’t really feel like a typical television shoot. It felt more like we were shooting this giant epic movie over four months.
What would you say sets American Odyssey apart from all the other political dramas currently on air?
Jake Robinson: I wouldn’t necessarily say that it’s a political drama. I think it’s more of a human drama. It’s about three fairly normal individuals. It’s not about a President. It’s not about a Congressman. It’s not about the White House. It’s about us as citizens in the United States and how when something’s going horribly wrong and we’ve realized it, how can we make a difference? And it’s told from three different perspectives which I think is unique to the show.
And it also makes you sit down and have to really pay attention to it because there’s a lot of stuff going on throughout every episode and I think that’s the main difference, is that it really is a human story and heartfelt, whether it’s about her family, and you get introduced to my mother and my father in the next episode and getting to know how it’s affecting everyone’s home life, what’s going as well as the bigger picture of the government’s bad or these corporations are bad. It’s more about how these people are struggling in their lives to make decisions and go after what they want.
Can you tell us if there’s a possibility of additional seasons of this show with these same set of characters or is it set up to mostly be a one and done type series?
Jake Robinson: No. The end is definitely a cliffhanger and it’s a big cliffhanger. The final episode has a lot of stuff in it that’s left unresolved. Certain major things get resolved, but I think the majority of the story continues and I think it’s definitely set up to be a multiple season show and hopefully people tune in and the network decides that it’s worth keeping on its schedule. I know I’m certainly incredibly proud of it and I think it tells a very relevant and important story.
Have you worked with any of your fellow cast members before the show and become particularly close friends within that?
Jake Robinson: Yes absolutely. For better or for worse I conduct myself on set in a very personal way. I’m not standoffish and I try to make dinner and lunch with the crew and the camera crew and the grips and everyone.
So our set was definitely a big community and I came into it with the attitude that I was going to be a lead on a TV series and that people look up to you and look at you as an example of how to act on set. And my goal was obviously to create a TV show but also make it a home because you’re there 12 to 16 hours a day with everyone and you spend a lot of time together so what’s the point of keeping everything impersonal?
Peter Facinelli and I became good friends. We talk. Nate Mooney, who plays Bob Offer, I stayed at his house out in L.A. Daniella Pineda and I still have conversations. She plays Ruby. And Anna Friel and I, we email and call about once a week just to talk about everything. So I’d say we’re a really tight cast even though the stories are so separate.
The show doesn’t feel like your typical network show. Do you think that it’s something that will change the way the network does television?
Jake Robinson: That’s a really great question and a tricky question. I definitely think that it doesn’t feel like a typical network show. I think there’s great things about that and I think it was incredibly brave for Bob [Greenblatt] and Jennifer Salke and everyone to – Quinn and everyone that was involved in this to NBC and Universal to put this on the air. I think it was a brave choice.
Now the question is in the payoff. While we’re incredibly fortunate to tell this story and to do something that’s pushing the envelope for network television the bottom line is NBC is a business and people often make money off it at some point. That’s the nitty-gritty.
Everyone creatively is in it to tell a good story. But at the end of the day, if it doesn’t produce good numbers, if people aren’t tuning in and people aren’t watching, then you might not see this kind of television on the network, which is a shame. So hopefully they stick with it for a while and continue to give us the benefit of the doubt about what we’re doing.
What’s been the hardest part about filming such an epic production?
Jake Robinson: The hardest part about filming this production was how emotionally involving the entire story was. It wasn’t a project that you could show up to and go through the paces. It demanded so much of you everyday emotionally, physically, whether we were shooting outside in the cold or whether we were running around, whether it was being at your lowest – experiencing your lowest of lows versus experiencing highest of the highs.
Across the board it was just an incredibly soul searching and really emotionally challenging production to work on. And it was a blessing absolutely for me because I definitely pushed myself in ways that I didn’t really imagine I could, and I went to places that I didn’t really think were accessible to me. So that was exciting and nerve wracking as an actor.
I absolutely loved chatting with Jake and want to thank him for his time & NBC for taking the time to put this interview together
Follow him on Facebook | Twitter
Catch American Odyssey Sundays at 10/9c

Exclusive Interview with “The Mysteries Of Laura” Co-EP & Writers