There are hierarchies in B-Town regarding many things, not just gender. Men also go through a lot in this industry.

We have so many male superstars, but there are just a few female actors who have attained that status. It is not only because of the industry; it's in the society.

I find it very important to keep learning because, as an actor, you get exhausted. You need more emotion, more experience... you need something to base everything on.

My memories mean a lot to me, and I hold them close to my heart.

My mother, who graduated from high school at sixteen, had no hope of affording college, so she went to work in the local post office for a dollar a day. She was doing better than her father, who earned ten cents an hour working at a nearby grain elevator.

After receiving strong encouragement from numerous people that I respect and admire, discussing with my family, and seriously considering it, I have decided not to run for the 12th Congressional District, a seat currently held by a man I admire very much, Representative Jerry Costello.

The smartest thing you can do in this business is get connected with a great agent to help you. Get connected with people who will form a family around you, or a moat.

Not everyone's a perfect parent, but we do learn, and we grow from that. I'm not trying to be harsh on my family because it does make them sad to think back about how they used to be and some of their choices.