A few years ago, I had the pleasure of interviewing Debra Christofferson for one of my past projects, and I’m excited to share it here.

Debra Christofferson (born January 9, 1963) is an accomplished American actress hailing from Spearfish, South Dakota. She has built an impressive career in both film and television, earning recognition for her versatility and memorable performances.

On television, Debra has appeared in popular shows such as 9-1-1, Carnivale, NCIS, Bones, and The Mentalist. Her film credits include standout roles in the Salem’s Lot remake, My Favorite Martian, and Mouse Hunt, among many others, marking a legendary and enduring presence in the industry.

Gizmo Exclusive: An Interview with Debra Christofferson​

1. What got you started acting?​

"I can’t remember a time when I didn’t want to be an actor. There’s a video my dad took when I was about a year and a half old—I’m tearing around a corner, adjusting where I’m standing as if I found ‘my mark,’ and then I pose for the camera. I’ve always, always wanted to act."

2. Actors and directors you’d love to work with​

"I’ve been so fortunate already, but I’d love to be in a Star Wars project—anyone directing or acting would be amazing. Mel Brooks, Steven Spielberg, Greta Gerwig, J.J. Abrams, Alfonso Cuarón, Patty Jenkins, Adam McKay, Chloé Zhao, Christopher Nolan…the list goes on. Actors too: David Tennant, Keanu Reeves, Patrick Stewart, Idris Elba, Adam Driver, Jennifer Lawrence, Oscar Isaac, Ewan McGregor, Simon Pegg, John Cusack, Samuel L. Jackson, Jeff Bridges…so many incredible people."

3. How did you get your role on 9-1-1?​

"I first auditioned to play Abby’s mother, which was a surprise because the lead and I aren’t far apart in age. I was also nothing like the sickly, feeble character described. I assumed I wouldn’t get it—and I didn’t. But my audition apparently stuck with the producer, and a few months later, I was offered the role of Call Center Supervisor."

4. Would you return to American Horror Story?​

"Of course!"

5. Challenges in your career​

"First, I’m female. Studies show men dominate film roles, and even TV has challenges. On top of that, being a Caucasian character actor can be tricky—many roles go to actors of color for diversity reasons, especially when productions can’t cast them in lead roles. It’s about persistence and finding the right projects."

6. Most rewarding part of acting​

"Working with other actors, crew, directors, DPs, wardrobe—everyone coming together to create art. Sometimes it’s not perfect art, but the passion behind it is always rewarding."

7. Marvel or DC opportunity?​

"In a heartbeat."

8. Favorite movies​

"Recently, I loved Yesterday, The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent, Parasite, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, and Black Panther. All-time favorites include Across the Universe, Almost Famous, Back to the Future, Being There, Big Trouble in Little China, Bowfinger, The Fabulous Baker Boys, Gallipoli, The Intouchables, Paul… and many more."

9. Working with Jennifer Love Hewitt​

"Jennifer is wonderful—kind, generous, and a joy to be around. Her work ethic is impeccable, and she makes the set fun while still getting the work done. We’ve become dear friends, and I think that chemistry shows in our scenes together."

10. Favorite genres​

"I love comedy—I don’t get to do enough of it. Musicals are another favorite. I’ve sung a couple of times on TV, but I’d love to do a full musical in any medium."

11. Greatest inspirations​

"Carol Burnett and Mary Tyler Moore."

12. Dream dinner guest​

"Only one? …Leonardo da Vinci with an interpreter."

13. Actors you’d love to work with again​

"Jennifer Love Hewitt, Viola Davis, Jessica Lange, Regina King, Allison Tolman, Teri Polo, Kristen Wiig, Wendie Malick, Dennis Franz, Jimmy Smits, Kenneth Branagh, Kevin Kline, Jamie Foxx, Clancy Brown, and Will Ferrell."

14. Working on Carnivàle​

"Carnivàle was incredible—set in my favorite period, the 1930s, telling a tale of good vs. evil. I didn’t have scenes with Clancy, but I saw him in hair and makeup trailers, and he was always lovely. We’d worked together before on The Patron Saint of Liars, but no shared scenes—hopefully one day we will!"