When I was growing up in the house, we'd watch the Oscars.

Since I got into the movies, 'Running Scared,' that did $40 million. 'Princess Bride,' I got good reviews for the character Miracle Max. 'Memories of Me' didn't do well. 'Throw Mama from the Train' did $70 million. 'Harry and Sally' did 95 or 96. 'City Slickers' did $120 million.

My dad, Jack, had a great sense of humour and had a strong impact on me and my humour.

The decision-making process was very difficult: is this how I want my career to start, with playing Jodie Dallas on this show?

I was about 10 when I first began to sing. My mother had been away for three weeks, and I learned 'Don't Cry for Me Argentina.' When she came back, I sang it in front of her, my auntie Linda, my father, my uncle Jim, and my grandmother.

I grew up in an entertainment family, and so I saw how susceptible you are to the ups and downs of this business.

That's been hard being away from the family, because Washington can be lonely. When you tune out of all the activity, that's like, you're alone.

Growing up in a violent home is a terrifying and traumatic experience that can affect every aspect of a child's life, growth, and development.