Mother of the Bride Played by Large-Hearted Actor

I remember my audition way back last fall; I am fast approaching the half century mark and hoped to get the part of Paul's mom, Anna. I thought it might be a stretch, but I was feeling every bit of my age that day after a game of squash the night before. Thought I could pull it off… but no. I must say I have never been turned down for a part in such a nice way before; thank-you Craig.

I was basking in the glow of his gently and ever-so-slightly backhanded compliment (he was, after all, telling me "no"), when he suggested the part of the bride's mother. ‘Hmmm’, I thought, ‘drive 3 hours to deliver one line? Hmmm.’ I was about to say "no thanks" and, in fact, I think I actually uttered the words, when I noticed Siobhan, casting director extraordinaire, doing something profound with one eyebrow; her eyes seemed to be boring a hole right through my head. I quickly reassessed the situation and a refrain from my past played in my head: ‘no small parts, only small actors’…

"Sure! Sounds like fun" I said, grateful to see Siobhan's eyebrow settle back down.

And so, Friday May 25, I drove down and met some of the people at the Jevon ranch... I was delighted to meet my husband and daughter, her fiancé and his parents, all cast-mates from our hilarious wedding scene on the ‘Love Boat’. However, it seemed like a funny twist of fate that my "husband" (the talented Ray Bailey) and I — who are both a tad vertically challenged — had a daughter (gorgeous Jenn Kirkbride) who towered over us by at least a foot. I suppose it can happen, nutrition being what it is these days…

I had a fabulous time, met some wonderful people, and got to watch some very talented professionals work.

Hmmm… drive 3 hours to deliver one line? In a heart beat. Siobhan, thank-you! And thanks for the opportunity Craig and Kennedy. Your movie rocks!

— Kathy Rollheiser
Mother of the Bride