Ever wanted to ask Tiffani a question? I'm sure you have something to ask - and here's your chance! In collaboration with her official site, you get to ask the most original, unasked, thought provoking questions. Follow down the page for the submit form.
March 2007
Q. Can you tell us any of your pet peeves?
– Hilary S., Florida
A. My pet peeves involve peoples’ behavior and I’ll be happy to tell you what I’ve become so intolerant of and sometimes impatient with: 1) Dishonesty takes top billing among my list of pet peeves. I have no respect or value for people, regardless of what relation they play in my life, when they are dishonest with me. As you may know, the entertainment business can often be a brutally honest business which forces actors or any talent to constantly question and reassess their value and potential. And the same industry that can be so brutally honest can be deliberately less than forthcoming with regard to opinions, intentions and plans. I prefer brutal honesty ANYDAY over deception and deliberate dishonesty. This preference is universal with regard to all the people in my life – both personally and professionally. 2) The pet peeve which takes the runner- up position would be unaccountability and lack of follow through. It seems more and more that people don’t do what they say they’re going to do. They don’t follow through as they planned. It’s as if their “word” has no value anymore. There was a time when someone’s word defined who they were. More and more, I see people assuming a dismissive nature and becoming unaccountable for their words and actions.
Q. Do you pick out your own clothing for events or does a designer do that for you?
– Joe, Arizona
A. Most designers (I’ll use wardrobe stylist rather than designer) know the likes and dislikes that someone has. The stylists also usually know what looks best on someone when they’re being photographed at events. So the stylists attempt to collect and present a number of options from various designers with the hope that one thing will be agreed upon and to everyone’s liking. I’ve always had my own personal likes but I’ve also been very aware of what I think flatters me best from a more objective viewpoint. I’m pretty adept at finding a balance between the two. As such, I don’t use wardrobe stylists as much as I used to unless it’s needed (for example, a magazine typically provides stylists for photo shoots.) On a personal note, I’m a big fan of Juicy Couture’s “Couture, Couture” line and my dear friend, Janey, who’s the VP there is amazing at keeping me up to date on there own new lines and looks as well as others. I have great respect for her style and instinct when it comes to helping me when I need it!
Q. In a recent interview, you said that you try and keep busy. I’m sure at times you’ve also experienced “burn-out.” How do you overcome or avoid “burnout?”
– Anonymous
A. I think everyone in every profession and in every walk of life experiences some level of “burn- out” from time to time. We often become complacent and overexposed to an aspect of life (notably work!) that becomes routine or monotonous. For me, the key to keeping things fresh, inspiring and stimulating is variety. I think people should have several hobbies rather than one. You should have special crafts or skills that you indulge outside or in addition to the normal work activities. As the old saying goes, “Variety is the spice of life!” I believe that’s true when it comes to hobbies and activities for oneself.
January 2007
Q. A number of celebrities are doing some sort of reality show lately. Have you considered doing one?
– (Shandrika, Berkeley, CA)
A. I’m pretty selective when it comes to reality television – both from a viewer’s perspective and from a creative perspective. I enjoy non-scripted programs that offer more than a “shock value” element or a gimmick. I’ve enjoyed some of the Survivor seasons in the past and I do have fun watching Dancing with the Stars. I also enjoyed watching American Idol. Some of the syndicated cable networks offer some great documentary style shows that offer real insight and storytelling like the show Intervention. I don’t have an interest in being on camera for the sake of being on camera and to promote celebrity status. I’ve seen some incidents where people are trying to re-invent their career or bolster their celebrity status but the end result was short of degrading. I think, at the end of the day, you have to have some dignity – whether you’re a celebrity or not.
Q. Who came up with the idea for the movie, “Just Pray”? How has the film inspired you in your own spiritual walk?
– (Lauren, Texas)
A. The film was written by my producing partner in 2000. On a dare, I challenged him to write a screenplay that was better than anything I had been reading at that time. He went home one Friday night and delivered the screenplay to me the following Monday morning. I immediately loved the story and the characters. I loved the essence of the project and its message: hope and redemption can be found in the most unexpected places and the most unexpected people. In this day and age, there is often a great deal of chaos and conflict as people are searching for answers and hoping to find resolution. The message from “Just Pray” is both inspiring and poignant in its reminder that answers may just be closer than we think.
Q. How do you reconcile who you are and who you want to be with what people expect and what they say about you and your choices?
– (Mariam, Texas)
A. There’s always a time period or phase in most everyone’s life where they do things, act certain ways, carry certain dispositions and live differently in order to fit in, impress other people or excel. Over time, you eventually learn that in order to be happy, and to be content with self, it is only YOU that is responsible for your own happiness, success and contentment – not someone else. When you realize this, then it’s easy to not worry so much about what other people think or believe or perceive. When you’re at peace with your choices and yourself, there will be no need to reconcile someone else’s opinion or perception with your own. I let my own internal barometer be the guide for making choices both personally and professionally; when that barometer indicates comfort and a sense of resolve, I know that I’m doing what’s best for me and I give little credence to what others may say otherwise.
September 2006
Q. I have been reading and seeing a lot of pictures of you at Charity Events for AIDS foundations and for animals. Helping people and animals really seems to be important to you. Would you like to start your own Charity in the future?"
– Jenn
A. I’ve always believed that when people are in a position to help others, they should. End of story. I take pride in the work I do for various organizations and their related causes. I was thrilled to participate in the “Until There’s A Cure” campaign for AIDS research and funding. I’ve always taken equal pride in the support I’ve lent to those organizations providing assistance and care to animals. I’m a huge animal rights advocate and feel strongly about this cause. I’ve recently joined the Advisory Board of the Make-A-Wish Foundation and celebrate their mission to grant wishes to critically ill children. And recently, I spent time as a volunteer at Camp Rainbow Gold. An outdoor camp for kids who are battling cancer. I enjoy being involved in charity work and someday would be interested in starting a charity of my own. At this time, I enjoy the freedom of supporting and contributing to many organizations. These entities have a tough job in raising funding and awareness and I’m glad to serve in any capacity to support their missions.
Q. When the editing was done, how did you feel when you completed 'Just Pray'? How did you feel when it was ready to be shown to the public?"
- Isabelle
A. Great questions! The editing phase can be as difficult, challenging and rewarding as the filming process. A director is always hopeful that enough coverage and footage was filmed so that there are ample shots, scenes and takes from which to choose. You never want to feel like you didn’t get what you needed during the filming process as time constraints, money, and talent availability make it almost impossible to do re-shoots . So, there are always the lingering questions of “Should I have done this?” or “Did I get what I needed?” The viewing public sometimes has no idea of the time that is involved with cutting film footage, deciding what shots must be deleted, streamlining the story, and making the story flow from scene to scene. As well, performances by actors can be significantly impacted (or not) in the editing room! Editing can often make or break the actor’s perceived performance. Furthermore, storylines can be easily told or unfortunately derailed by the editing process. In conjunction with our film’s editor, I spent almost four months in the editing room going through various phases of shaping and crafting the story. I was both relieved and extremely proud once the final cut of the film was completed. I felt like I captured the story and the essence of the characters. Of course, the process of previewing the film to friends, agents, managers and audiences can be very nerve racking as you hope it will be viewed positively and to rave reviews. In the end, I have been very proud of the results and the film’s success during its film festival tour as it has garnered praise and awards alike. Directing and producing “Just Pray” has been one of the most rewarding moments of my life.
Q. "What's the role you wanted most that got away?"
- Steph
A. I’m a firm believer that every thing happens for a reason and I’ve never dwelled on what may have been perceived at the time as a missed opportunity. There have certainly been roles in both film and television that I wanted but was disappointed to learn I didn’t get. There was a time in my life where I hoped one day to play the role of a “Bond Girl” as I enjoyed the James Bond movies of the 60’s and 70’s. I would have also enjoyed the chance to secure a role in the Charlie’s Angels series. As people grow and change, so do their interests. Now, I’m focused on identifying roles that are more driven by the character’s depth and relativity to the story being told.
Q. "Fans have been speculating about "Stroller Wars" possibly getting picked up again, do you have any information you can share?" (ie. it is still seen at imdb.com, not sure why it's still there?)
- this one is from all of us at the forum!
A. “Stroller Wars” was not picked up by a network two seasons ago. Typically, when a show fails to make the television schedule, it’s rarely picked up at a later date – especially when so much time has passed. Any work performed by an actor is always listed on the imdb list of credits regardless of whether the project aired, was released in theaters or ever saw the light of day. As a result, my credits reflect the pilot episode that was filmed but in no way is indicative or suggestive of a possible future for the show.
Q. "So, what's playing in your CD or MP3 rotation right now? Any particular reason?"
- Mandy
A. I have diverse interests in music and I like many artists, styles, forms and genres. However, right now, in my iPod I’m listening to Bare Naked Ladies, Teiter, Ray LaMontagne, Bob Schneider, M. Ward, Paul Simon and always Dave Matthews
Q. "You're generally always in the spotlight, being a celebrity and all. What's something about you that you do that most people DON'T notice?"
- James
A. As cliché as it may sound, I’m extremely private and very protective of my home and family. So, I like to keep the personal aspects of my life out of the media and press when possible. For example, I’m not someone who would star in a reality show that exposes and opens the door to my private life and home. I also take great pride in respecting other’s privacy and intimacy.
June 2006
Q. Shay, Sacramento, CA
With regard to film making, what types of movies are you in interested in directing?
A. Because I have such an appreciation for the art of storytelling, I would have to say that I’m an admirer of most all films, regardless of genre, that are able to elicit a story, rich with fully developed characters while making me feel something. While I don’t necessarily see myself directing an outer space, hi tech, special effects project at this early stage in my directing career, I still have respect for any film and filmmaker that can compel the viewer with the story and its characters. I am more prone to seek live action drama and/or comedy storylines at this initial phase in my directing career.
Q. Tom, New York, NY
Now that you’re planning a segue into directing, which directors do you admire?
A. Names that immediately come to mind include the popular directors: Ron Howard, Clint Eastwood, Steven Spielberg and Woody Allen. And a director I admire that’s not as known: Danny Boyle. Each of these directors, by virtue of the films they have made, certainly have their own unique and special style that fashions their work. However, the commonality they share, speaking as an actor and viewer, is their ability to weave a story by unveiling complex characters and intricate storylines through their “eye” and the lens. They are quite brilliant at producing imagery that impacts the viewer on many levels.
Q. Jerry, Buffalo, NY
How do you decipher when people have an agenda for you? At what point in your career did you learn how to identify people who want something from you from those who truly seek an altruistic friendship?
A. Everyone seems to have their own learning curve when it comes to identifying those who have an agenda – hidden or otherwise. In the entertainment business and in the world of celebrity, most people are quite bold in expressing what they truly want these days. It’s not uncommon for requests and motives to be made painfully clear upfront. The degree of bravado runs deep and rich these days and while I’m still surprised at times by a couple of curve balls, I’m keenly aware in most encounters when there is disingenuous behavior.
Q. Rick, Atlanta
Fastlane was such a great show. Any comment on why it wasn’t picked up for a second season?
A. Plain and simple: shows live and die by their ratings. While the show found a niche market, it was never able to develop a broad based appeal or large audience during the time slot and air day it was assigned. So as sad as it was to see it end, they canceled it due to the simple fact of low ratings.
April 2006
Q. Daryl, Seattle
I’ve been a big fan for such a long time. I wanted to know if there were a lot of girls auditioning for the role of Kelly Kapowski on Saved By the Bell?
A. I’m sure that when the role of Kelly Kapowski was first introduced, no one had any idea that the popularity of this character would grow to the degree it has. I certainly had no idea when I auditioned. Yet, Kelly Kapowski has found an entire new fan base that continues today by virtue of worldwide syndication. She has a whole new life! While I’ve never heard specific numbers as to how many girls auditioned, I’m sure several hundred were submitted for the role by their agents. Producers of the show and NBC casting probably saw fifty to seventy five, at least, for the first round of auditioning.
Q. Tiffany, Mississippi
I will be getting married June 24th of this year. When it comes to a wedding and a marriage, what advice would you give to the soon to be bride?
A. From a ceremonial aspect, I can’t say enough about PLANNING. It’s worth repeating. PLANNING. I’m a very detailed person who likes to see things done well and without loose ends. People are being invited to your special event to celebrate with you. As a result, every detail should be checked and double checked to ensure that your event runs smoothly and comfortably for and your soon to be husband. This day belongs uniquely to the two of you. As such, you don’t want to have to worry about anything. Don’t feel silly about starting to plan too early. The memories you retain from this day will be far more wonderful when everything works out perfectly as you desired. It boils down to planning, preparing and organizing.
From a personal aspect, make sure that your fiance’ is a full and active partner in this planning process. The beauty and wonder of this day is going to be shared between you both. Consequently, the work and responsibility of organizing and preparing for this event should equally be shared. It should be a complete team effort.
Q.Randy, Wilmington, Delaware
I know you have directed and produced a film, but do you ever write any stories?
A. My producing partner and I just completed the manuscript for the first book in our children’s picture book series called, “Fins & Tales.” This completed manuscript along with an outline for the remaining seven or eight books in the series is currently being shopped to publishers and we hope to announce some good news very soon. The stories are life lessons for the young at heart as told through the voices of my pets. We have two dogs, two cats and a fish – hence, the title of the series, “Fins & Tales.” I’m excited to be adding author to my list of new endeavors.
February 2006
Q. Renee, Michigan
You have played a lot of different characters in your career. Which was the most challenging role for you to portray, and why?
A. One of the most challenging roles I have ever had was for the TV Movie, “A Killer Among Friends.” I was just nineteen years old and I played the role of a young California teenage girl who was murdered by three of her best friends. The movie was based on a true story. The scene in which I was beaten and then murdered was the hardest day I have ever had on a set. It was not only mentally challenging, but the physicality of the scene was quite severe. Because the scene was shot many times, the actors engaged in the assault time and time again. I was emotionally and physically drained afterwards. I was so exhausted that it was days before I fully recovered. I realized on a very small level what the victim must have felt at that moment upon realizing who her attackers were, trying to desperately fight for her life, yet ultimately realizing she could not save herself. Some months after production was completed on the movie, I had the honor of meeting the family of the girl I portrayed. We talked openly about the movie and I shared with them my experience during filming. My heart went out to them as I can’t begin to imagine the devastation and loss they felt, and still feel, everyday.
Q. Tina, Spain
Which moments would you say have been the best in your professional and private life?
(For example, those things you always remember with a smile...)
A. What a tough question! It’s similar to asking a parent which is their favorite child! Professionally, I consider each opportunity I’ve been given in film, television and the entertainment industry as a whole to be valuable and cherishable. I’ve learned something, meet someone, honed my craft and grown through each endeavor. Directing and producing the film, Just Pray, is reserved a special sentiment as I initiated that project and took the sole responsibility of redefining myself and the career I want to have. Regarding my life from a strictly personal level, I have been blessed with wonderful friends and family throughout my life. However, as I assumed the role of wife this year by marrying my husband Brady, I would venture to say he has garnered a “Best Moment” nomination at the very least!
Q. Unknown
My question for “Tiffani the woman” and not “Tiffani the actress.” I’m from the Middle East and sometimes find it hard to show my true colors and flourish, but I look at you and say, “Wow, this is a woman who knows what she wants and she is really making it happen for herself.”
For all women around the world, could you please point out what should we do to “make it.”
A. Thank you for the compliment. Female actors have a more difficult time finding work as they age. It becomes important to secure your future by expanding your opportunities. I’ve always tried to think proactively and plan for the future rather than finding myself in a situation of feeling, “What next?” Preparedness is obviously a key element along the journey to “making it.” However, “Making it” is a relative term as are the concepts such as success and happiness. I don’t think that a patented or standard formula for measuring any level of individual accomplishment is applicable, appropriate or realistic. The key word is individual. Every individual (woman or man) is unique. I believe that differentiation is both needed and necessary to secure one’s long term goals. And, you must be clear and set goals of what you personally want in life. Such preparedness will enable you to build the path or structure that can accommodate your wishes. Keep in mind that depending on one’s personal, social, financial, geographic or cultural parameters, even more unique challenges may be encountered. I wholeheartedly believe that desire, determination, a strong work ethic, some imagination and steadfast courage will help you venture along the path you yourself envision. Finally, I would remind everyone to be nice to others and to themselves. Everyone around you will serve some purpose in “making it.” A sense of humanity will make the journey far more memorable.
December 2005
Q. I think that you would be perfect for the role as Wonder Woman in the upcoming movie. Don´t you? You have the looks that are needed. Jimmy Hugosson, Sweden
A. I loved Wonder Woman. It would be a great opportunity to reincarnate the role so famously played by Lynda Carter. I’m certainly up for the physical aspects of the role. While co-starring on Fastlane, I was involved in some pretty heavy duty action scenes in which I actually did my own stunts a couple of times. I loved the physicality of the show. It would be a lot of fun to work in that environment again.
Q. When you come across one of your shows or movies on television do you stop and watch a little? Or, do you blast right past and change the channel thinking, “Oh My God! Isn’t there anything else on tv?" - Dennis, Anaheim Hills
A. Catching an old show that’s airing on television is a bit like looking at old high school yearbooks. You’re amazed at how long it seemed and how much time has passed and of course, there’s the natural inclination to oblige the “then” and “now” comparisons. There are actors who cringe and wonder why they ever took the part or did the show, and bemoan how “green” they were when taking on the role. I don’t take things so seriously. You have to be able to appreciate the relativity of your life and the stages of life. I can laugh at myself! Watching old episodes or movies can be a hoot!
Q. Fans continue to read about the film (Just Pray) and its success on the film festival circuit. When and where can we expect to see the film playing and are there plans for a DVD release?
A. We do intend to release the film on DVD and would ideally like to make it available by the Fall of 2006. We’ve also been approached with distribution options as they relate to syndicated cable televison, but no firm decision has been made. The film is nearing the end of its festival tour and is next appearing at the Bahamas International Film Festival (December 8-12th, 2005). We’re also awaiting the selection decisions from a couple of other highly noted festivals that have been on our wish list and take place in the early months of the new year. Once the outcomes of these festivals are known, we will begin the process of finalizing distribution and sales options.
Q. If you weren't in the entertainment industry, what would you see yourself doing? - Katie
A. When I prepare for a role, I want to inhabit the character and assume the multi-layered aspects of the character’s life. As an actor, I enjoy the imaginative process of becoming that character. Yet ironically, it’s difficult for me to imagine a career or role for myself outside the entertainment profession! I will say that since creativity finds its way into almost every field and profession these days, I’m quite sure I would be involved in something that allowed me access to the process of creating, designing or developing in some capacity that enhances peoples’ lives on some level. I will add that I have a tremendous admiration and respect for teachers and educators. They shoulder a huge responsibility when dealing with the learning process. Of course, I hope I won’t be having to make a career change anytime soon! (wink)
October 2005
Q. You've been in show business since you were eight years old. Do you plan to continue a full time career in the business or have you considered slowing down now that you are married and beginning to settle into family life?
A. "The entertainment field has been my life. It’s been my training ground and formal education for over twenty years. What I’ve learned, behind and in front of the camera, has enabled me and empowered me to do many things in the past couple of years. I saw the need to craft my own path and as a result, started TiT 4 Tat Productions – an entity that would allow me produce, develop and direct while complimenting my acting career. Most would think that marriage indicates a time to step back and focus on other priorities. Ironically enough, I’ve taken on the task of redefining who I am as a talent while setting the pace for expanding my career interests and options. There’s been no slowing down on any level. There’s been an acceleration if anything."
Q. When you finally get to the point in which you decide to retire from acting, what do you hope to leave behind in terms of achievements or contributions? Can you begin to anticipate what your greatest career accomplishment might could ever be?
A. "In this business, there are no guarantees. It’s a competitive, exciting, chaotic, frantic, giving, unforgiving, rational and irrational state of affairs all rolled into one. I can’t begin to anticipate a greatest career accomplishment. I would much rather think in terms of a great career. And, a great career for me would be one in which I’m always viewed as a team player, hard worker, honorable, considerate, ethical and kind. And above all, to be valued as part of the process/project – whatever it happens to be. To maintain a professional code of conduct that others value and respect would be what I desire first and foremost."
Q. Many of your fans think that you should have received more recognition for your body of work over the years (i.e., nominations and awards). Do you agree or disagree and how important is this to you?
A. "Awards, commendations, nominations, etc. are certainly marks and measures of achievement and success. But, I’ve never accepted a role or pursued a project thinking of the “award” factor involved. I’ve tried to always listen to my instincts and follow the path that would benefit me for the next level or prepare me for something else. Regardless of whether you earn awards, you gain from each experience. As long as I walk away from a project with more understanding, a greater sense of knowing, and having grown on some level as a person and professional, then it’s been a good day at the office."
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