ASHLEY NICOLE WILLIAMS, CATHERINE LOUGH HAGGQUIST
Celeb Secrets: Let’s go back to the beginning, what was the casting process like for the role of Petra Bellweather?
Catherine Lough Haggquist: “I was cast after my first audition, and without having met the producers or director. I had found the audition scenes compelling and immediately felt I knew who Petra was, but had no idea what the plan was for her over the course of the series. All I knew was Petra scared and excited me and I wanted to be a part of this world for however long as that opportunity presented. I am so grateful for the way she was developed and how integral she became to this world.”
CS: How do you feel about Motherland having its final season?
CH: “I am so grateful that we were given the knowledge that we were going to finish with the 3rd season so that Eliot and the writing team were given the opportunity write a conclusion to the stories we were telling. That things resolve means that folks will embark on discovering the show through streaming as they will know that it goes somewhere. This is very meaningful to me as Motherland explores so many important themes that will remain relevant for years to come.”
CS: What can you tell us about the experience of the final episode airing? Were fans surprised with its ending?
CH: “I had the fun experience of joining a Zoom after party that some of the fans, our wonderful Switches, organized. It was so nice to hear their thoughts on the both the series itself and the conclusion. Spending time with them, and feeling their appreciation for our efforts, definitely was a lovely way to end the ride. It made me happy that they were happy with the end while still expressing that they intend to continue to lobby for more. They have been a very special part of this whole experience.”
CS: What was your favorite episode of this season to film?
CH: “I loved all the episodes I was a part of, but I must say that I really enjoyed working on Episode 8, ‘Petra’s Favorite Pen’ as it shows the moment when Petra starts to take more control of the situation. Up until this point she has been reacting to the events that have been unfolding. Leadership requires tough choices and decisive action, and she takes both in this episode.”
