Recently I got to speak with rising star Abigail Klien about her work in the new film “Thats My Boy” with Adam Sandler and Andy Samberg. Abigail aslo was a Dallas Cowboy Cheerleader and was kind enough to answer our questions.
What inspired you to choose a career in film/TV; do you have any advice for people who are looking to get into the television and or film industry?
I first became inspired when I visited a friend who was working on the set of Iron Man. I had the chance to be on location while a scene was being shot outside Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas. I loved the energy of everyone working together and really enjoyed learning about the process. It made me curious about acting. I was fascinated and decided that eventually I wanted to move to Los Angeles and give Hollywood a try!
You are a dancer and were a Dallas Cowboy Cheerleader. Can you tell the readers about your memories of this time in your life and how did you transition from being a cheerleader to acting?
I grew up dancing from the age of nine and that’s where I started to really love performing. When I graduated high school I decided to audition for the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders. I figured, I love to dance, I love to perform, and I’ve always been a Cowboys fan.. why not! Next thing I knew I was on the team for three years, dancing at the games, doing a number of different appearances, and even traveling overseas with the USO.
As a follow up, how did being a cheerleader prepare you for the next phase of your career as an actress?
Being a cheerleader prepared me to feel comfortable in any situation. Much like walking into an audition room or working on a set, going on countless appearances as a cheerleader helped me instantly connect with people no matter what kind of atmosphere. I think being able to interact with anyone right away has been useful as an actress.
Looking at “That’s My Boy”, what can you tell us about your character and how you got the part?
I play one of Leighton Meester’s bridesmaids in the movie. I auditioned for the part last July right before going home to Texas to spend time with my family. A week later I returned to LA and heard I had a movie offer! I was stoked.
When you consider a script or a potential TV or film project, what elements do you look for in the story and character and what types of projects would you like to do in the future?
I like instantly relating to the character I’m going in for. I look for similarities that I share with them. As for future types of projects, I want to do anything and everything! An action, drama, more comedies. After seeing the Avengers I have to say I wouldn’t mind playing some kind of super hero. I literally got goosebumps when I was rooting for the characters in that movie! Guess it’s safe to say that whatever I do, I want to always do projects that are goosebump worthy.
What were some memorable moments from filming “That’s My Boy”?
Four Seas Ice cream! It was the most delicious ice cream shop in Cape Cod, where we were filming! All the cast and crew raved about it each day. They even had a few flavors delivered to set one day! Other than that I will never forget getting to know everyone working on the film. It was the best way to spend my summer!
As a follow up, what was working with your cast and director like?
Both the cast and director were absolutely awesome to work with. This was my first movie so I’m totally spoiled now! Everyone was so welcoming and nice. I enjoyed working with such a brilliantly funny cast. And Sean Anders, the director was very cool to work with. All around, it was an incredible experience.
How did you like doing a music video and compare and contrast it if you would to working on a film or television show.
I had a blast shooting “Loving You is Fun”! Instead of having dialogue or stage directions on a film set, the music video allowed us to kind of do whatever we wanted and we just played off each other.
When you’re not filming, what do you like to do and which shows and movies are you looking forward to seeing?
Living in LA makes it easy to say that in my free time, I love doing anything outdoors! I love hiking and going to the beach. Even skiing, since the mountains are only a couple hours away! I also like to hang out anywhere there is live music. I’m a sucker for a good Jazz brunch.
As for shows and movies, I really can’t wait to see Snow White and the Huntsman! Looks insanely good.
If you had carte blanche, what type of role would you like to create for yourself, who would direct, and who would star with you in the project?
For my answer I’ll incorporate two people I’d love to work with and a role that I’d find challenging but totally awesome. I’d play a witty, highly trained assassin directed by Steven Spielberg and somehow Betty White would star alongside. It could work, right?!
What future projects do you have coming up that the readers can look forward to?
I’m looking forward to which future projects unfold myself. Mostly, I’m looking forward to seeing “That’s My Boy” come out in theaters!
What do you like to do in your off time and what sort of music do you like?
I love going home to Texas to see my family and friends. I truly start to crave TexMex and barbeque if I’m away too long! My three favorite types of music couldn’t be more different. I love 1940s Jazz, hip hop, and country.
