Marc Tyler Nobleman's Blog, page 74

The Girl in the Video 2: reactions

Thank you for spending some time reminiscing with the girls in the videos. And thank you to the following for such rewarding and humbling feedback. All of this goes to show how much fun you can have in your eighties (meaning, of course, your 1980s):

A.V. Club 7/10/14:

Nobleman’s efforts could easily turn cheap or exploitative, if he wasn’t so respectful of his subjects (a new profile of Vicky Granucci from John Cougar’s "Jack & Diane" barely mentions that she’s his ex-wife, for example) and such a thoughtful interviewer. This approach has led to some rather moving Q&As.

Pop Candy (USA Today) 7/14/14:

Last year...Marc Tyler Nobleman posted a fantastic feature in which he tracked down and interviewed 21 female music video stars from the '80s. This summer he's back with 30 more (holy moly!), and they make for some pretty compelling reading. … I hope this series never ends.

Billy Joel site 7/29/14:


John Mellencamp Facebook page 7/16/14:

 
John Mellencamp tweet 7/17/14:

Huey Lewis and the News Facebook page 7/25/14:


Billy Idol retweet 7/30/14:

The Hairpin 7/11/14:

…Marc Tyler Nobleman’s super rad “The Girl in the Video” project, in which he tracks down and interviews the women…whose ‘80s hair and intense cosmetic contour only grows more powerful in retrospective. … Karen Morton’s…interview takes a surprising personal turn.

I love the labels for this post: 

OH GOD I LOVE THIS, THE GIRL IN THE VIDEO, MARC TYLER NOBLEMAN, JENNY I GOT YOUR NUMBER, GIRLS IN 80S MUSIC VIDEOS, WHAT HAPPENED TO ALL THOSE GIRLS

Yahoo! (homepage plus celebrity and music sections) 7/15/14:




Macha Bennet-Shephard ( “Sister Christian” herself) 7/15/14:

It’s fascinating to read the stories of all these women; Marc is the kind of author whose sincerity and respect for his subject give an unusual depth to the interviews. We’re given a view into her world as she experienced it, and in her own words, making her most human and in that sense negating the very genre for which she became famous—the objectified, nameless “girl in the video.”

daughter (and only child) of Karen Morton:

 
friend: “I love your story of finding [“Sister Christian”], even if I never noticed and don’t remember the video.” Then on his Facebook page: “I’m really taken by his perseverance. Also by his having kept track of his perseverance.”
selected tweets from fans:

The Girl in the Video: “I’d Do Anything for Love (But I Won’t Do That)” (1993)

Introduction to series “The Girl in the Video 2” (including list of interviewees).

The video: “I’d Do Anything for Love (But I Won’t Do That)” by Meat Loaf.

The girl-now-woman: Dana Patrick.




Of all the women in this series (including the first round), Dana is the only one who lip syncs in the video.

The person I contacted to reach Dana endearingly wrote me, “I am both Dana’s booking agent and her mom.” She was an absolute pleasure to correspond with, as was Dana.

How old were you when you appeared in the “I’d Do Anything for Love (But I Won’t Do That)” video?

28.

Where were you living at the time?

Manhattan.

What music videos, shows, or movies had you appeared in prior to that?

None.

Dana with Roseann, her best friend since childhood 1991
 1992
1992
How were you cast in “I’d Do Anything for Love (But I Won’t Do That)”?

I was in L.A. for a shoot. I auditioned for a Levi’s commercial and had to ad-lib. [Director] Michael Bay had looked at hundreds of girls for the part of “beauty” and called my agent to see if she had anyone that she thought he would like. They sent over the Levi’s tape and it was a done deal.

Do you remember what your reaction was when you were cast?

Um, honestly not that interested because I had no idea who Michael Bay was and music videos usually don’t pay well. I was like, “I better get a good rate or no deal.” Lord, I sound like such an ass.

Were you a Meat Loaf fan?

I actually was a Meat loaf fan. I think he is extremely talented as a songwriter/vocalist and a really stellar actor.

Where was the video filmed?

Greystone Mansion [in Beverly Hills, CA].

How long was the shoot?

Two very long days and into the night.


How did you feel making the video?

Out of my element.

What was the hardest part of the shoot?

Michael Bay’s outbursts, which he did with everyone. However, [he and I] had to come to an understanding—I don’t do well with a lot of screaming. He was actually quite sweet, just very passionate.

How was it to work with Meat Loaf? What was he like? Did he hit on you?

Meat was amazing! Very much the family man and a true gentleman. He knew I had no idea what I was doing and was extremely supportive and kind.

Any funny stories from the shoot?

I am afraid of heights, so in the couch floating scene, I had to buck up while glancing at a cue card as I was lip-syncing to the song that I did not know the words to. I was trying to be all sexy and all the while I was terrified. Thank God I am a good multitasker. The lip-syncing was okay, not sure I nailed the sexy.



Anything go wrong on the shoot?

Not really wrong, but during the bed scene where the girls were crawling up my body, one of them got a little over zealous so I kept yelling “Cut!” Ha! I didn’t know that it wasn’t my place to decide when we were to stop rolling film.

What did you think of the video?

I thought it was beautiful. I was amazed at the talent of Michael Bay to do such an elaborate video in such a short amount of time. However, I have to admit that I have seen it only a handful of times. Just too weird to see myself.


What did your parents think of it?

They were thrilled.

Another first for the series: I was able to ask this question directly to the parent of a video ingénue, Dana’s mom Marty. Her response:

I loved it! I loved the subliminals of Dana’s face, especially in the beginning. As a rather conservative mom, the only part of the video story that I found difficult to relate to was the [suggestive] part with the other two beautiful actors. When I showed the video to Dana’s very conservative grandparents, I explained that segment as kinda like Cinderella and the two stepsisters. I felt that it was all about creative license and personal interpretation and that was the best interpretation I could muster. I feel Meat Loaf was right when, in an interview, he said that it was Dana who made the video such a success since it was #1 on MTV long before the song became so popular. I loved the staging, lighting, costuming…I thought it was all beautiful and I love the song.

What did your friends think of it?

One time during show season in Milan, a group of girls broke out in [the] song when I entered the room. Friends like to tease me, but everyone seemed to genuinely like it.

Did you watch the MTV World Premiere of the video, and if so, where and how did that feel?

This is awful, but I did not. I had no idea what a big deal it was going to be. I was oblivious.

Did the video ever affect your dating life in any way (i.e. when you first told boyfriends you were the woman in it)?

No. not really. I was dating someone at the time.

Did you receive fan mail? If so, do you still have any of it?

I did, but my agency went through it. I never saw any of the letters.

Did the video generate any controversy that you know of?

Not that I know of.

What were you paid?

A good amount, more than the usual. Don’t really want to say, sorry.

Were you ever recognized in public?

Surprisingly I was, which shocked the hell out of me. Sort of became some teenage boys’ wet dream (which totally cracks me up), but what was really cool was a lot of women were fans. I felt proud of that.

1998
Did you appear in other music videos after that?

Just a follow up video by another director [“I’d Lie for You (And That’s the Truth)”], wasn’t the same.



Did you ever meet other women who were female leads in a mainstream ‘80s rock video?

Just some fellow models. [Dana is good friends with Audie Lenkov of “The Boys of Summer,” and Audie mentioning that was what prompted me to find and include Dana in round 2.]

Dana and Audie mirror selfie
If you went to college, where and what did you study?

Never went to college. Actually I have never been a good student—too impatient.

What are you doing these days?

I am a photographer—self-taught, of course. Again, terrible student.


Where do you live?

Los Angeles, CA.

If you are/were married, what was your future husband’s reaction when he learned you were in this video?

I am married to an amazing man and he thought it was awesome because he thought I was actually singing! Trust me when I say he knows better now.

Kids?

No kids, just a Myma cat and a Grace dog.

What did you think when you first heard from me?

Honestly? “Ugh.” But then I read your email and saw your work and now I’m a fan.

Has anyone else ever interviewed you about this?

At the time, I was asked to do The Howard Stern Show, but that was never going to happen.

Have you appeared at any fan conventions to sign autographs? If not, would you?

No fan conventions and no, I wouldn’t be comfortable with that.

Did you stay in touch with Meat Loaf?

For a while there. He wanted me to be on his softball team but it never happened; at the time I was traveling so much.

When was the last time you were in touch?

Last time we spoke was at least 15 years ago.

How do you look back on the experience?

I look back and realize that it was an amazing and unique experience. I am grateful.


Tweet about this interview to @RealMeatLoaf @dana_patrick!

...of round 2.

The Girl in the Video: “Poundcake” (1991)

Introduction to series “The Girl in the Video 2” (including list of interviewees).

The video: “Poundcake” by Van Halen.

The girl-now-woman: Diane Manzo.




In an email, Diane wrote of her experience on the Johnny Hates Jazz video “Shattered Dreams,” directed by David Fincher, “The director went onto to big movies, I went onto dogs.”

How old were you when you appeared in the “Poundcake” video?

Around 30.

Where were you living at the time?

Los Angeles, CA.

What music videos, shows, or movies had you appeared in prior to that?

Tons of stuff. I worked in New York, San Francisco, London, Milan, and finally Paris. I then came back and stayed put, working a lot. I had already done theatre and taken many acting classes and was also working as an actor. I did lots of TV, small but featured speaking parts. Some movies including South Central, The Mambo Kings, Death Wish II. So many commercials and music videos working as a principal performer, it’s hard to remember. Some of the other music videos that I remember:

Herb Alpert (I was told this was the first video with an actor [me] in it and an actual storyline. They said it was like a mini movie.)“Shattered Dreams” by Johnny Hates Jazz, directed by David Fincher. I was living in New York at the time, and my L.A. agent, Top Models, called me and said I needed to be on a plane that night, that Fincher personally wanted me. It was a very dark video; David pushed me very hard, but I felt up for it. I also did a Babyface video, shot at the Ambassador Hotel. Let’s see, Simply Red, Jefferson Starship, Aaron Neville, Glenn Frey. I know there are many more—oh, I forgot: Rod Stewart, too.
Another time I flew back to New York for a magazine shoot and as soon as I arrived, my L.A. agent said I was picked to be in a Mick Jagger video! For the audition I had to act out a scene on tape. Mick had final choice, so I was beyond flattered, but unfortunately couldn’t do it—I had to stay in New York to work the job. I was crushed.


How were you cast in “Poundcake”?

“Poundcake” was a regular casting call. It was packed with scantily clad women. I was told to dress looking shy and innocent. Was I in the right place? I remember picking a little printed sundress and flats. The director and casting director were in the room. The director gave me some thoughts and I went to work. I decided to put a light-hearted spin on it a few times, and they laughed; it was a funny bit I did (when on set, he wanted me to recreate it). And that was it, about 10 minutes or less. Just a few months ago, I was at a commercial casting, and the same casting director from “Poundcake,” Talley Casparis, was casting. She said I was the only actor the whole band agreed on and I was Eddie’s first choice. I never knew this before, so it was a fun little update for me.


Do you remember what your reaction was when you were cast?

Of course I was excited. (One usually is when booking a job!)


Were you a Van Halen fan?

Oh yeah, I was crazy for some of their songs.

Where was the video filmed?

I think it was filmed near USC, maybe the L.A. Coliseum…that rings a bell.

How long was the shoot?

Approximately 23 hours. (Yes, I said 23!)

How did you feel making the video?

Exhausted, but excited at the same time.


What was the hardest part of the shoot?

I had to convey a lot of emotions and be focused. The hardest part was they saved the last few hours of the shoot to shoot my scenes. We shot as the sun was rising. I didn’t think I was going to perform well, but I was running on adrenaline.

How was it to work with Van Halen? What were they like? Did any of them hit on you?

Sadly all my scenes were shot separately. No way was the band going to hang around till 5 in the morning!

Any funny stories from the shoot?

My choice to add a little comedy in the scenes elicited laughs, which was nice to hear. I remember one of the models lost her purse and was frantic, but I think someone hid it. Everyone was exhausted after waiting around for about 10 hours before any of us got filmed. There were a lot of grumpy models.

Anything go wrong on the shoot?

Not that I can remember.

What did you think of the video?

It was a funny premise, and it was rewarding to always get to act in a music video, not just prance around in tight clothes and stilettos. I thought it was a great video, and I believe it actually won an MTV award, something like “Best Chick Video” or some such.



What did your parents think of it?

They were always proud of me. I think they were relieved I was cast as “the nice girl”!

What did your friends think of it?

Jealous. No, just kidding! They always want to know if anything juicy happened on set.

Did you watch the MTV World Premiere of the video, and if so, where and how did that feel?

I wasn’t able to.

Did the video ever affect your dating life in any way (i.e. when you first told boyfriends you were the woman in it)?

No, I was already with my boyfriend for many, many years; he was used to me working all hours and doing all kinds of work. We have now been married for a few decades. So he must have trusted me!

Did you receive fan mail? If so, do you still have any of it?

I did. It usually went to my agent, or SAG. I’m not sure I’ve kept any. I have a garage full of boxes with stuff—the books, appointment books, portfolios, etc. If I have some, it would take me a year to find them.

Did the video generate any controversy that you know of?

No. I think people realized it was all in good fun.

What were you paid?

I don’t remember, but it was about double or more than the other girls, and that was because I told my agent to demand overtime after around 12 hours. That was kind of unusual as most shoots were a flat fee no matter the hours involved. In the past I [had] experienced long hours and, frankly, at that point in my career, I thought I could ask. So I think I might have made around $1,500-2,000.

Were you ever recognized in public?

Yes! I was taken aback. It usually happened on other sets I was working on, or even just on the street. People would sometimes just stare as if they recognized me, but from where?  Once I was shooting a European commercial and a background actor, around 16, wanted to talk about “Poundcake” and asked me for my autograph! That was sweet.

Did you appear in other music videos after that? If so, which was your favorite and why?

That was my swan song as far as music videos. Twenty-three hours on a set…well, it was time to move on.


Did you ever meet other women who were female leads in a mainstream ‘80s rock video?

I was very friendly with Susan McNabb; she was in a Billy Joel video. I knew Signy Coleman, who did the Huey Lewis videos. We all knew each other and a lot of us were with the same agency.

If you went to college, where and what did you study?

I planned to go to UMKC, which was in my hometown of Kansas City, MO. I [had given] myself six months to make it in L.A. I started working and never went to college. I consider myself going to the University of Life. I did graduate high school!

What are you doing these days?

Still going on castings. Still working occasionally. I live with my long-time husband and three enormous dogs. I am a senior member of a well-known non-profit that rescues and places German Shepherds and German Shepherd mixes. I’m one of the people who go to the high kill shelters, conduct temperament tests of the dogs, and pick dogs for the rescue. It’s truly a passion.


Where do you live?

Los Angeles.

What was your future husband’s reaction when he learned you were in this video?

He was proud! He helped me remember some of the videos [to list for you].

Kids?

Three fur babies! Six, eight, and 12 years old.

What did you think when you first heard from me?

I was shocked because the day before I heard from you, I was thinking about all the music videos I did from that era. It was a special time; I was at the birth of MTV, in a way. In fact, LOL, I was driving on Sunset Boulevard the same year MTV was born, and one of the founders of MTV hit on me and gave me his card! I never called him…

Has anyone else ever interviewed you about this?

No, I don’t think so.

Have you appeared at any fan conventions to sign autographs? If not, would you?

No, but sure, if it was local, or somewhat local.

Did you stay in touch with anyone in Van Halen?

No. I wished I could have met the band.

How do you look back on the experience?

Very fondly.

Anything you’d like to add?

It was a really heady time, lots of action workwise, and it may sound silly, but it was an honor to have been chosen by the bands. I was very lucky.


Tweet about this interview to @VanHalen @sammyhagar @eddievanhalen!

Next: Meat Loaf, “I’d Do Anything for Love (But I Won’t Do That)” (1993).

The Girl in the Video: “Cradle of Love” (1990)

Introduction to series “The Girl in the Video 2” (including list of interviewees).

The video: “Cradle of Love” by Billy Idol.

The girl-now-woman: Betsy Lynn George.




How old were you when you appeared in the “Cradle of Love” video?

I was 18 years old. I was also asked to prove so, shortly after the video was aired. Propaganda Films contacted me wanting a copy of my driver’s license. They said that a concerned mother’s group wanted to know if I was of age to do such a video.

Where were you living at the time?

I was living in West Hollywood.

The night before our first rehearsal, I went on a double date with my girlfriend. She set me up with a well-known actor. The four of us came back to my apartment. My date came out of my bathroom and made a comment that I had a metal tube of what he thought was a birth control—it was really just hand lotion. He announced to my friend, loud enough [for me] to hear, that I must be “ready for him.” I promptly asked him to leave. He asked why. I told him that I had a rehearsal for a music video in the morning. He rolled his eyes, said something along the lines of “oh wow,” and slithered out the door.

Later that year at the [1990] MTV Video Music Awards, he announced “Cradle of Love” as the Best Video from a Film. My friend who set me up with him left a message on my answering machine, crying with laughter, that he had to announce my win.

What music videos, shows, or movies had you appeared in prior to that?

For one year, I did modeling near my hometown in Pittsburgh, PA for Calgon Bath Product, Gimbels, and Kaufmann’s department stores. When I first got to L.A., I did two Japanese buyouts, [one] for Konica Camera (billboard) and another I don’t recall. I was offered a six-month contract to model in Japan through Askew Modeling Company. I turned it down and stayed in L.A. to pursue being an actor. 

I was on Days of Our Lives and featured as a 1920s ballroom dancer in the TV movie Man Against the Mob: The Chinatown Murders. I played a young bride in a music video. I do not recall the name. It was a soulful boy band. I got my SAG card as a guest star on Baywatch, shortly before the Billy Idol video.

How were you cast in “Cradle of Love”?

It was a large casting [call] at Propaganda Films. Casting directors Elisabeth Kovacs and Elaine Guy had me in on a commercial casting and told me to come to this large casting. Lee Daniels, my manager, told me that it was a cattle call. And it was. I went to the call with no makeup, a vintage dress from the ‘60s, and a trench coat, I think. The casting directors quickly pulled me aside and said to put on some red lipstick and really “play the role.” They believed in me so much. Elisabeth said that the director David Fincher did not like me for the role, initially. Nonetheless, I got a callback and got the role.

Do you remember what your reaction was when you were cast?

It was an exciting moment. I was really going out of my comfort zone and stretching my limbs as an actor. At the same time, I was very excited because I was going to be able to incorporate my love of gymnastics and skills into the video. I was also about to be the star of the video and was eager to do well. It was emotional because I felt like I was getting a chance to perform gymnastics again in some way. At 13, I had broken my neck doing competitive gymnastics. The accident ended my career as a gymnast.

Were you a Billy Idol fan?

I liked his music.

Where was the video filmed?

In a loft in downtown Los Angeles.

How long was the shoot?

Two or three days.

How did you feel making the video?

I knew that we were making something special. There was that sense on set.

What was the hardest part of the shoot?

Crawling on the floor and kissing Josh. I cried after the shot, actually. No regrets, no trauma. I was a small-town, mostly-good girl suddenly doing a music video with a sexually-fueled demand to its creation. I began to realize my power as a woman and it was a little scary. Even then I had the sense to be careful and not abuse it.



How was it to work with Billy Idol? What was he like? Did he hit on you?

You are funny. I did not actually work with him. He came to set one day with a full-leg cast. He [had] had a motorcycle accident.

Billy and I [did go] to dinner once. We got along well, but it was not exactly a match. I rarely wore makeup and did not dress sexy in real life. I was wearing shoes that he did not like, I was later told. We went to his house and sat by the pool. We kissed, but it was not going anywhere. I asked to be driven home. His driver and right-hand man told me when we got in the car that he “could not believe” I didn’t stay, that “all the woman stay.”

I really was still a girl in some ways. I got that Billy was very respectful of that.

Any funny stories from the shoot?

I can laugh about it now, but at the time I felt like retreating to the mountains. In the scene where I had to crawl and kiss Josh, Fincher was not happy with my crawling performance. He whispered something shocking to me. I did the scene several takes until he was happy. It was sexy and felt very primal and I could feel the heaviness of the silence and dropped jaws on the set. I went behind a tarp and cried for a minute or two until I could regain my composure.

Josh was comforting at the time. When I have run into him since, he teases me about it. We had a really good time as actors, making this video. We both went somewhere we had never gone before. “Cradle of Love” is both sexy and funny and really well made.

Anything go wrong on the shoot?

Nothing.

What did you think of the video?

I think that it is a work of art. There is so much talent and creativity to it. Details are everything, I think. And it has it. The makeup artist said that she was pulling red lips and minimal makeup from WWII. She spoke of batwing eye makeup so deeply rooted in Egyptian hierarchy and throughout Old Hollywood. She wanted a film noir and certain bombshell actresses influenced the Devon character. I learned so much from this makeup artist.

The costumer chose hieroglyphic, chandelier-type earrings. We shopped and shopped until we found and crafted the perfect outfit. So much thought was put into what my character would wear. The red Asian jacket reflected the downtown/near-Chinatown garb of a loft-dweller. David Fincher added his say to the wardrobe and demanded a bust-enhancing bra and high-heeled boots. He very well may not have liked my clunky boy shoes. ;)

Gregory Poe, the choreographer, is true genius. He not only comes up with unique ideas but he also was great with allowing improve—[allowing] what came naturally from me to be a major part of the performance. Fincher wanted that, too. For there to be an unscripted flow to the dancing, as if I thought no one was watching. Everyone on the crew from the cinematographer to the lighting guys and gaffers were so meticulous to make everything just right. I think that we all did just so.

I knew my life would never be the same, in a positive way. I knew that I could command an audience and was excited to do more.



What did your parents think of it?

They like it.

What did your friends think of it?

Proud.

Did you watch the MTV World Premiere of the video, and if so, where and how did that feel?

Yes, I remember watching it. I was proud and only a little worried what my mom would think of the sexy parts.

Did the video ever affect your dating life in any way (i.e. when you first told boyfriends you were the woman in it)?

I did not tell anyone (other than my family) that I was in it. Nearly everyone who knew me had seen it. I was very recognizable to those who would meet me. It was a time for me that changed everything of how I saw people socially. Some people began kissing up to me. Certain people came out of the woodwork; that made me cringe. I became quite introverted toward those who treated me as if I was the character. For the most part, another level of respect came in for me that I knew I deserved. I did not date much. Over the next seven years, I had a series of three semi-long-term boyfriends.

Did you receive fan mail? If so, do you still have any of it?

I received a letter from a war vet amputee wanting as many headshots as I could send for him and his buddies. I likely have it somewhere in my attic.

Did the video generate any controversy that you know of?

Yes, like I said a women’s group targeted Propaganda Films because they thought that I was underage.

What were you paid?

I want to say close to a thousand dollars a day for three days.

Were you ever recognized in public?

I was recognized daily. I am still recognized often.

Did you appear in other music videos after that?

I was in the James Foley-directed music video “King of Dreams” for Deep Purple. Shortly after I worked with Foley again on one of the last episodes of Twin Peaks.

Did you ever meet other women who were female leads in a mainstream ‘80s rock video?

I may have, but if so it was brief and I don’t recall.

If you went to college, where and what did you study?

I am an avid reader and have been since 18. I have informally studied philosophy, Buddhism, herbology, and holistic medicine. In my thirties, I went to college for the first time. I studied journalism part-time at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. After 9/11, I decided that journalism was not a good fit for me, at that time. I went back to college part-time in 2005, majoring in psychology. The decision was partially based on my son being diagnosed with autism. I wanted to understand his condition more and gain every tool I could to help him. I continued studying psychology through 2008 at Mount Diablo College near San Francisco, mostly during the morning while my children were in school.

What are you doing these days?

I spend most of my time raising my children. Also, one year ago, I began my own at-home business. I deal in antiques, art, and vintage clothing. Quality antiquities have been a lifelong love. I sell worldwide.


Betsy modeling an item from her Etsy shop
For the past five years, I have been living in my hometown, Kittanning, PA. I also volunteer as a yoga instructor at the local YMCA. I have a large garden, I grow many herbs and much food for me and my family. I spend much time in the forest and mountains. I go to cities mostly to enjoy the arts.

If you are/were married, what was your future husband’s reaction when he learned you were in this video?

I have been married twice and divorced twice. Upon learning, my first husband’s eyes were like a deer caught in headlights and he gushed about it, frequently. He was funny about it and is genuinely proud of my accomplishments. My second husband both pretended that he did not know when we met and pretended to not care when we were married.

How old are your children?

13, 10, and 2.

What do they think of the video?

My 13-year-old daughter likes it and sometimes teases me. We talk much about preforming. She is a talented flutist and very bright.

What did you think when you first heard from me?

I had a fine feeling—it made sense. I had a good experience with Rob Tannenbaum. I felt comfortable interviewing with him. He represented me with accuracy and is respectful and funny. He is smart in a unique and somewhat dark, yet inoffensive, way. I like working with intelligent, creative people who interpret things with accuracy in a caring way. I saw your photo and like what you write. When I first heard from you, your voice sounded caring and passionate. I saw that in your photo and what I read from you as well.

Has anyone else ever interviewed you about this?

In 2002, I did [one of the two “Video Vixens” episodes of a VH1 show called Where Are They Now?]

Have you appeared at any fan conventions to sign autographs? If not, would you?

I have not appeared at fan conventions and would likely not.

Did you stay in touch with anyone else from the video?

No. But [bumping into] some of them through the years has been pleasant.

When was the last time you were in touch?

I saw Josh in 1997 at the Beverly Hills Post Office.

How do you look back on the experience?

Positive.



Tweet about this interview to @BillyIdol!

Next: Poundcake, “Van Halen” (1991).

The Girl in the Video: “We Didn’t Start the Fire” (1989)

Introduction to series “The Girl in the Video 2” (including list of interviewees).
 
The video: “We Didn’t Start the Fire” by Billy Joel.

The girls-now-women:

Melody KnightonMarlee MatlinLupe McDonaldSusan McNabbBarbara PaolellaFrankie Thorn
 Melody
 Marlee
 Lupe
 Susan
 Barbara
Frankie

How old were you when you appeared in the “We Didn’t Start the Fire” video? 

Melody: 35.
Lupe: I was 23. Fresh out of college and excited to be doing a music video, which was a fairly new thing in the music world.
Frankie: I believe I was about 24. Yes, that was me popping pills and playing the violin!
Marlee: I was 24 when Billy asked me to appear in “We Didn’t Start the Fire.”
Susan: I believe I was 28, but I don’t recall the shoot date. I might have been 29.
Barbara: 22. I was the future girl, all punked out in the kitchen. :)

Melody 1986
 Lupe 1980s
Frankie and Antonio Sabàto, Jr. 1989
Susan 1980s
Where were you living at the time?

Melody: Hollywood, CA.
Lupe: Santa Monica, CA.
Frankie: Hollywood, CA.
Marlee: Los Angeles, CA.
Susan: West Hollywood, CA. When I was 24, I’d moved to L.A. from North Carolina to model.
Barbara: Malibu Canyon, CA.

What music videos, shows, or movies had you appeared in prior to that? 

Melody: This was my first on-camera appearance. I had worked on several as a makeup artist. 
Lupe: I had mainly done quite a few commercials, including McDonald’s, Miller Lite, Pepsi, Honeywell, etc. I had also done some theater in L.A. and at the New Mexico Repertory Theater Co.
Frankie: I had done a couple of films in Europe, a shampoo commercial in London, and a couple of other music videos over there.
Susan: I’d appeared in many commercials and music videos. (I’ve listed the videos in a later response.) I also did print and runway. I made most of my living modeling, but had also done quite a bit of extra work in film and TV to make ends meet, and I’d become Elvira’s stand-in and photo double by that time. I’d been working in L.A. for four or five years when I booked “We Didn’t Start the Fire.”
Barbara: This was the first thing I was cast in through an agency. I had done some modeling but nothing serious.

 Susan
Frankie
How were you cast in “We Didn’t Start the Fire”?

Melody: The call was for people who looked like celebs from the ‘50s, ‘60s, and ‘70s. My agent sent me the audition. It was my first attempt to look like Lucille Ball. I had not even studied her yet.
Lupe: I was cast, I believe, by a casting agent named Paul Ventura. [MTN: True! In fact, Paul was invaluable in helping me find Lupe, a process that took about a month but seemed like much longer at the time.]
Frankie: I went on the audition with hundreds of other people. Who knows why, but they chose me for the role. The whole casting process is still a mystery to me. I actually love auditioning. I go in and dance for myself!
Marlee: I got a call from my agent and publicist at the time that Billy thought it might be fun for me to appear in his new video.
Susan: I don’t remember the actual audition. I went out on a lot of music video auditions and many of them blur together with memories of standing on my mark and dancing in a bathing suit, trying to look sexy. I remember wondering if the casting directors ever showed the audition tapes at their parties so people could laugh at us. I often felt ridiculous.
Barbara: The call was for Marilyn Monroe types so I dressed like a 1950s Marilyn Monroe. I ran from another callback; I walked in and I thought I am at the wrong call. There are tall models who look nothing like what the casting agent said they were looking for. I figured I was not getting this.

Do you remember what your reaction was when you were cast?

Melody: I was thrilled to get a part, try out this character, and meet Billy Joel.
Lupe: I think at that point, being a struggling artist, I was ecstatic to be cast in anything. But this being a paying gig and being such a cool job, I was quite thrilled, to say the least.
Frankie: I was, as usual, surprised. Getting booked for any job in Hollywood is close to a miracle. There are so many beautiful and talented people here! And it was also my first acting gig in Hollywood. So I was especially delighted!
Marlee: I was over the moon. Me? In a Billy Joel video? I had never heard the song before, but didn’t care. I said “I’m in!”
Susan: I was always very happy to hear I had a booking, and this was no exception.
Barbara: This was my first job so I was really excited!

Were you a Billy Joel fan? 

Frankie: I knew who he was! I liked his music!
Marlee: I had met him several times before and expressed my admiration for him and his music (was a fan ever since I was 8) and in 1988 we got to work together on Sesame Street.
Susan: Absolutely! Who isn’t? He’s an icon.
Barbara: I liked Billy Joel.

Where was the video filmed?

Melody: Hollywood. Raleigh Studios?
Lupe: The video was filmed at some big sound stage in L.A. somewhere.
Frankie: Oh jeez…it was some studio in the Hollywood area, but I’m not sure which one.
Marlee: I don’t recall where the video was filmed but I want to say Hollywood.
Susan: I don’t remember the location, but we were on a sound stage somewhere in L.A.
Barbara: It was so long ago I remember only that it was shot in a big studio somewhere.

 Who is Meg James? See below...
courtesy of Sterling Storm

How long was the shoot?

Melody: I think they shot for several days but I was there for one.
Lupe: The shoot for me was one day.
Frankie: I shot my part for two days.
Marlee: The video shoot took most of a day. That’s because I had hair/makeup and two costume changes—prom girl and hippie.
Susan: I only worked on it one day. I don’t know how many days they shot.
Barbara: The shoot was one day, I think.

How did you feel making the video?

Melody: I felt like a star. Lots of attention and loved the costumes.
Frankie: I felt soooo happy! I loved making this music video! It was a period piece. I was playing Marlee Matlin’s mother. [My character] started out as a young mom in the ‘60s, then they aged me with makeup and shot into the future. It was fascinating! I got a glimpse of what I’ll look like as an old lady! LOL!
Marlee: It was fantastic having an opportunity watching how videos are made. I know it sounds ironic coming from a deaf person, but it was really fun being part of a music video. I’ve always thought they play like little movies, so why shouldn’t I be in one? Thanks to Billy, I got the chance.
Susan: I loved the job! I was pleasantly surprised when I was put in the red dress. It was “pretty” and not the usual slutty garb required for most music videos.

Decorating a Christmas tree was also a wholesome task to perform on camera, which I liked. It was nice to just act like a normal person and not have to try to look sexy. Meryl Streep once said her hardest role was in The French Lieutenant’s Woman because she had to look beautiful. (Yes, I just compared myself to Meryl Streep—hey, stop laughing!)

I’d been told to bring some wardrobe of my own, which was common. Music videos generally had very low budgets, and we often wore our own clothes. I brought a selection of hats, and they chose to put me in one of them for my second change—a black felt hat with an attached black scarf that wrapped around my neck.
Barbara: I was so excited to shoot it until they started fitting me for this wardrobe, putting me in this ridiculous outfit; I became so bummed about it and never really told anyone about the video.


Lupe behind-the-scenes
What was the hardest part of the shoot?

Melody: Trying to toss a weighted veil. I kept conking Billy in the head, neck, arm, chest. If you asked the actor who had to carry me across the threshold for numerous takes, I am sure he would say his aching back.
Frankie: There really was nothing hard that I can remember. I guess having to hear bits of the song seven zillion times, really loudly…that was a bit much…but obviously necessary!
Marlee: The hardest part was lighting up a fake marijuana cigarette. I was so apprehensive because at the time I had been sober for two years. But then, it wasn’t hard because it wasn’t that long. It was fun and scary at the same time.
Susan: I don’t remember anything being hard about it. It was a great gig.

How was it to work with Billy Joel? What was he like?

Melody: He was very warm and friendly. Kind of a quiet guy. Didn’t feel the need to be the center of attention. He seemed content to sit back and observe until he was needed. He was very tolerant of my lousy throw. He chatted with us between takes.
Lupe: I never did get to work directly, as in exchanging any lines, with Billy Joel. Once we had figured out the scene we were shooting, they would bring him in and plunk him down in his chair, in the middle of our kitchen, so he could observe our chaos and the filming would begin.
Frankie: Great! He was a quiet gentleman to me!
Marlee: Billy, as always, was a gentleman with a little undercurrent of mischief/subversiveness. He plays by the rules but he plays his way because he can—he’s Billy Joel! He was very patient explaining how the music would play and [how] we would act out various scenarios.
Susan: I’m certain we met but to be honest, I don’t remember talking to him—which sounds crazy, I know, because he’s Billy Frikkin’ Joel. It would have been customary to be introduced to him, and the fact that I don’t remember our conversations means that he was probably a perfectly lovely person, because if he wasn’t—that I would have remembered.
Barbara: I don’t feel I really shot the video with Billy Joel; he basically stayed by himself. No one really interacted with him that much. At the time Christie Brinkley was a bigger name so everyone asked me if she was on set and she was not.

Any funny stories from the shoot?

Melody: Well, I couldn’t resist milking it when I was wearing the pregnant suit. I waddled around and struggled to sit down. The crew was falling all over themselves to assist me. Like they hadn’t just seen me an hour before not pregnant. Cracked me up.
Lupe: I remember Marlee Matlin quite vividly. She was quite the hot actress at the time, having just won an Academy Award. I remember she came with a large entourage, and they would all be hanging out and seeming to be having a grand ole time while we were working. I was a bit awestruck being so close to her and Billy Joel at the same time.
Frankie: When I met Marlee Matlin, she was so vibrant! Such a free-spirited being! Wow! I was playing her mom; we are the same age, but I was acting. They aged me up pretty good at the end there! It was super exciting to be on the set, trusting and creating the director’s vision, making it come to life. Best job on the planet!
Marlee: It was fun trying to watch them figure out how I would take off my bra and burn it. I think we had a tough time trying to get the bra to ignite and they doused it in something after I took it off.
Susan: When we started to set up the coffin shot, the director wanted to get a shot of the coffin lid opening from a closed position. The actor spoke up and said he couldn’t be in the coffin with the lid closed, so the shot was changed—cheated a little to start from a halfway-open position. It’s not funny-ha-ha, but it’s kind of funny-odd. I couldn’t imagine speaking up and saying no to anything I was told to do by a director. But I could also see why it would be hard to be shut inside a coffin.
Barbara: I have no funny stories about the shoot; like I said, they pretty much made me look ridiculous and cut out most of what we shot.

Marlee
Anything go wrong on the shoot? 

Melody: Nothing went wrong while I was shooting.
Frankie: Don’t recall any major blunders of any kind.
Marlee: Nothing really went wrong except it was a challenge to take off my bra and burn it as I explained.
Susan: We couldn’t start the coffin lid-opening shot from a closed position.

What did you think of the video?

Melody: I thought it was very innovative for its time. I think it opened the door for more stylized videos.
Lupe: I really love the video. The idea of going through all the decades and seeing a slice from these people’s lives and realizing that we are all basically repeating the cycle over and over is rather fun and creative. And the way it is edited together keeps it moving so nicely.
Frankie: I wasn’t really sure what the whole kit and caboodle was going to turn out like in the end. There were all these time-period sets; conceptually I had no idea how they were going to put it all together. I was just into being my mother character!
Marlee: I thought the video was great. Very visual. Each word/lyric was accompanied by an image that reflected the time. Chris Blum, the director, did a great job.
Susan: I loved it! It was thought-provoking and interesting—not a typical video at the time. It told the story of the evolution of the American family and a warning about our future while showcasing some shocking historical images—really, pretty ambitious for a music video.

 Marlee
 Lupe
 Barbara
Frankie
What did your parents think of it?

Melody: They always think it is fun to see me on camera. My dad was just thankful I wasn’t playing a prostitute this time.
Lupe: It was really just a job to them. I doubt either of them had ever seen a music video, then or even now.
Frankie: Oh my mom is always proud as punch! She gets to point to the TV and tell the world, “There’s my beautiful talented daughter on the telly!”
Marlee: My parents loved the video. They knew how much of a fan of Billy’s I was and were thrilled I got to work with him again, [this time] on one of his videos.
Susan: I don’t remember discussing it with my parents. They weren’t really MTV types. But they were always proud when I booked a job.

What did your friends think of it?

Melody: Most of my L.A. friends were in the biz so they were pretty jaded. However, over the years, my friends from Georgia and other parts of the country told me how cool they thought it was to have someone they knew appear in a video.
Lupe: My friends thought I was pretty cool being a part of something so popular and so on the cutting edge of music then.
Frankie: My hardcore Billy Joel fan friends kind of freaked out! Knowing I was on a set with him for two days was a bit surreal for them!
Marlee: My friends were blown away by the video because they didn’t recognize me at first as the prom queen and then as the hippie burning her bra. It was hilarious!
Susan: I don’t remember specifically discussing the video, but my friends were always very supportive when I was in a video. My friends back home in North Carolina were more impressed than my L.A. friends. My L.A. friends were mostly in the business as well, and had their own accomplishments that often made mine seem insignificant. But then, friends who weren’t in the business thought what I did for a living was pretty cool. It’s all relative.

Did you watch the MTV World Premiere of the video, and if so, where and how did that feel? 

Melody: I didn’t even know they had a premiere. Unfortunately, once the production company gets you on film or video, they don’t want to know you. It is extremely difficult to even get a copy of your work unless you know someone.
Frankie: I did! I think I was in Minnesota visiting my parents at the time and we all watched the big premiere on MTV. It was amazing! It was much more multi-layered and historical than I imagined it would be. Everybody thought it was pretty cool.
Susan: No, but I watched MTV and VH1 a lot—always looking for myself and my friends in videos. Plus I was a fan like anyone else and had my favorite videos to watch for. We left it on all the time, like a radio. It was a big part of the culture at the time.

Did the video ever affect your dating life in any way (i.e. when you first told boyfriends you were the woman in it)?

Melody: What dating life? Just kidding. My husband was a friend at the time and he thought it was fun.
Lupe: Well, it’s a funny thing…around the same time, I was doing a play in Santa Fe called When You Comin’ Back, Red Ryder, by Mark Medoff. The leading man was played by Christopher McDonald. Little did I know at this point that he was the man I would end up marrying. Anyway, he had seen that video right before I showed up in NM and was rather impressed that I was the girl in it, and now here I was playing his girl. Perhaps that’s one of the reasons I did indeed end up “his girl” in real life. Interesting to think that a part in a video could have shaped my life so dramatically!
Susan: At the time I was dating Jerry Seinfeld, and that was the year he launched his TV show, so my appearance in a music video paled in comparison. I’m sure he was happy for me, but did it affect our relationship? No. Like I said, it’s all relative.

I don’t remember it being significant with later boyfriends, either. But was I thrilled to have booked it and proud to be in it? You can bet your booty.


Did you receive fan mail? If so, do you still have any of it?

Melody: I have received a few fan letters through the years but not for this video. How would they know? We don’t get credits. I was not even recognizable as myself.
Marlee: I don’t have any mail that I’ve saved from fans about the video. But I get tweets! People love the fact that they’ve picked me out of the video. “Was that you? Awesome!”
Susan: Ha! No. You’re the first person to ever contact me about it.

Marlee, did you get any flak for doing a music video after winning an Academy Award? 

Marlee: I got no flak for doing this video after my Oscar. A lot of people thought I’d never work again just because I was deaf. I’m sure their jaws were on the ground when I proved them wrong by bending their expectations and doing a music video. But that’s me. Never happy with being “silent.”

Did the video generate any controversy that you know of?

Melody: The director had me tone down the Lucyisms to avoid any copyright issues.
Marlee: I don’t recall any controversy regarding the video.
Susan: None that I know of, but I do have a friend who says it gave her nightmares. (I hope she wasn’t referring to my Christmas tree decorating skills.)

Melody as Lucy 2008
What were you paid?

Melody: $200 or $300. SAG and AFTRA were giving music videos an exemption at that time. Nobody really thought they were going to be a big thing. Boy, if I had gotten residuals for all the times that video has aired through the years!
Frankie: I think I got a couple grand to do that part.
Marlee: I don’t recall being paid for the video. It might have been scale. I would’ve done it for free—it was Billy Joel!
Susan: $200. It was the first (and only) music video for which I signed a SAG contract. For some reason, most of them were non-union. They didn’t pay well but were considered prestigious to book, and could lead to booking much more lucrative commercials. It was like doing editorial print—being on the editorial pages of a magazine paid $150 for the day but was artistically more interesting than the commercial ads it could lead to that paid $1,500. My highest-paying music video paid $500 for the day, but the commercials videos could lead to paid thousands. I also considered the cool factor to be worth a lot. Being in them was cool.

Were you ever recognized in public?

Melody: When I am not in Lucy costume, hair, and makeup, no one recognizes me. However, when I am appearing as Lucy, I sometimes get asked if I am the one in the video.
Frankie: You know, I think after a while of doing lots of different TV roles, commercials, videos, films, and stuff, you seep into people’s brains subliminally. I’ve played so many different characters with lotsa makeup, no makeup, etc. A lot of people say I look familiar to them, but they are not sure why. It’s so sweet, really! I adore people! I am very touched if someone comes up to me and says they enjoy my work.
Marlee: People have recognized that it’s me in the video playing the prom queen and the hippie. It usually comes in the form of a Facebook posting or tweet. I think it was just a few weeks ago that people [last] recognized it was me.
Susan: I was rarely recognized in public. L.A. is crawling with people like me—working models and actors who aren’t famous. We’re rarely noticed, especially when we’re with famous comedians. I did have a woman approach me one night and say she enjoyed my work in a fashion show. I was having dinner with Jerry [Seinfeld] and Dennis Miller, and she didn’t say anything about them. But that happened once in eight years.

When I met the country singer Nancy Griffith backstage after her concert and I gushed at how much I loved her, she just pointed and said, “Oh my god, you’re the woman in the Steve Wariner video!” That was the only time I think anyone recognized me from a music video. I was pretty thrilled.

At an audition once, the director said, “I just saw you recently. In…um…” I asked, “A music video? Commercial? Fashion show?” He replied, “No, in El Pollo Loco.” Yes, I was embarrassed, but I did book the job, and he had lunch catered by El Pollo Loco because he knew I liked it, so there’s that.

Oh, wait—there was one other time. Kathy Foy and I were stopped on the street in San Francisco by an exuberant fan who swore he knew us from our videos. It’s more likely he only knew Kathy whose Bowie video was out at the time, but it’s also possible he just liked two young women in tight dresses and heels (on our way to auditions) and figured raving about their music videos was a good opening line (it wasn’t). Kathy and I always joked that we were so famous we couldn’t even walk down the street, but only in San Francisco, and only on that one street.

Did you appear in other music videos after that?

Melody: Nope. As my grandmother would say, “They want too much sugar for a dime.”
Frankie: I did! Off the top of my head:

“Who Is It”—Michael Jackson
“Love Is a Wonderful Thing”—Michael Bolton
“Runaround”—Van Halen
“Restless Heart”—Peter Cetera

Among others!
Marlee: I did a video with Garth Brooks called “We Shall be Free” in 1992 (and a follow-up in 2009). I also did a video called “Let’s Mambo” with rapper Sean Forbes in 2012.
Susan: Yes. I’d never thought to list my music videos until this interview. I came up with ten videos I did over the years, but I might have missed one or two. My very first job in L.A. (in 1984) was a music video for a Saturday morning cartoon called Kidd Video that featured music videos.

I think I have these in chronological order. There are several for which I have versions I haven’t found online. When I say I have them, I mean they’re on a videotape somewhere in a box in my basement. That tape is very important to me, which is why I put it somewhere so special that now I can’t find it.

“TLD”—Kidd Video
“Turn Me Up”—Kidd Video
I can’t recall the song!—Kenny G
“The Weekend”—Steve Wariner
“When the World Cried”—Ya Ya
“I Don’t Want to Be a Hero”—Johnny Hates Jazz
“I Wanna Be Loved”—House of Lords
“Cool Runnin’”—Boz Scaggs
“We Didn’t Start the Fire”—Billy Joel
“UHF”—“Weird Al” Yankovic (the Robert Palmer spoof portion, with Kathy Foy)
Barbara: I went on to do other small things—a Bud Light commercial, a Japanese Lucky Strike ad, some small parts on soaps. I moved to New York shortly after.

Frankie in “Love Is a Wonderful Thing”
 Frankie in “Restless Heart”


Frankie in Bad Lieutenant
Did you ever meet other women who were female leads in a mainstream ‘80s rock video? 

Melody: I’ve met some dancers who were in multiple videos.
Frankie: Christie Brinkley! She is sweet and super gorgeous in person!
Marlee: The one who comes to mine is Lesley Ann Warren who was in “Janie’s Got a Gun.” That’s a great video.
Susan: I knew a lot of them, and am still in touch with quite a few. When I booked a “Weird Al” Yankovic video, three of my close friends booked it as well—my bestie Kathy Foy, Dana Williams, and Linda Ashton. That was a really fun shoot because we were all together. I also shot House of Lords with a couple of friends including Kathy [again], who saved me from having to shoot topless by refusing to open my bra. What are friends for?

If you went to college, where and what did you study?

Melody: At both Kennesaw College [now Kennesaw State University] and Georgia State College, I studied journalism.
Lupe: I went to college at Cal Arts (California Institute of the Arts) in Valencia, CA and graduated with a BFA in theater.
Frankie: I studied theater at the Juilliard School in NYC and at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London. I’ve continued my acting studies with some brilliant teachers here in LA. I’m slowly studying for my certification in recycling and resource management and a degree in botany at Santa Monica College. I’m a lifelong learner! I take classes and workshops all the time!
Susan: I have a BA in English Literature from the University of Tennessee.
Barbara: I went to F.I.T. and studied fabric development and marketing. I came back to L.A. and did some costume design/wardrobe supervising. I loved that work but again the lifestyle of the movie business can eat you up.

What are you doing these days?

Melody: I make a living as a celebrity impersonator. I have several shows where I perform as Lucy; I later added Dolly Parton and occasionally Joan Crawford and Marlene Dietrich to my repertoire. [My stage shows include] “The Tribute to Lucy Show,” “The Lucy and Ricky Tribute Show,” and “The Dolly and Kenny Tribute Show”; I perform all over the world. A few years ago I was selected to appear as Lucy in a national ad campaign for Armstrong Laminate flooring called “It Only Looks Like the Real Thing.” I [also] occasionally still work as a makeup artist.

Melody as Lucy then
 Melody as Lucy now
Melody as Dolly
Lupe: Still happily married to my leading man, and raising four children.
Frankie: I’m a green mom raising my two beautiful children! I have a green company that’s going to save the world with biodynamic organic farming, biodiesel fuels made from our trash, aromatherapeutic organic essential oil housekeeping and products, biodynamic and organic face care, body care, makeup, etc. Going for the zero waste, happy healthy Earth magnum opus! X:-)) And I’m developing a TV show for myself. I’m itching to get back in the saddle again! Never a dull moment!

In 2012, I played a survivor of breast cancer in a music video called “You Survived the Cancer.”



Anna Kay is an up-and-coming musical artist. She’s a teenage girl who wrote this song about her real mother, who was diagnosed with breast cancer. The producer of this track knows me personally and asked me if I would like to play the part of Anna’s mom in the music video.

Playing a woman diagnosed with breast cancer struck a chord with me. So many friends, relatives have been subject to this devastating disease. Taking the cinematic journey through the diagnosis, chemo, healing process, and ultimately becoming a survivor of breast cancer, I felt honored to play such a role. I think it turned out beautifully!
Marlee: I’m still producing, still acting in TV and in film. Currently I am starring on ABC Family’s Switched at Birth.
Susan: After a very long career, I retired from working in front of the camera in 2011 and am now a writer.

I just signed my first publishing contract for a vampire romance (using a pen name), and am shopping two books under my real name—a Bridget Jones-type novel about a model in the ‘80s who dates comedians called It Seemed Funny at the Time and a collection of funny nonfiction essays about my life in L.A. called The Opposite of Famous. I also have a screenplay in pre-production that I wrote with Larry Donahue called Dreamland Motel.

I didn’t start writing until fairly late in life, and I absolutely love it. Can it replace the rush of strutting down a runway or seeing yourself on MTV? Actually it comes pretty close, and you don’t need to wear pumps while you do it. I can also walk down that street in San Francisco now without being accosted. Middle-aged writers don’t generate quite the same kind of attention as music video models, which is just fine with me.
Barbara: That life is so far away from what I do now. I work in a hospital as a microbiology tech.

 Melody
 Marlee
 Lupe


Susan
Frankie
Where do you live?

Melody: I live in the Atlanta, GA metro area.
Lupe: I split my time between Lake Arrowhead and the City of Orange, CA.
Frankie: Santa Monica, CA.
Susan: After 27 years in L.A., I moved with my husband and our five rescued dogs to a tiny and adorable town in the mountains of North Carolina known for being a writers’ and artists’ haven. It’s a dreamy life.
Barbara: Las Vegas, NV.

If you are/were married, what was your future husband’s reaction when he learned you were in this video?

Melody: My [future] husband knew me when I was in the video. He was then and is now very proud of me.
Frankie: No husband! Still looking! LOL!
Marlee: I wasn’t married at the time and hadn’t met my future husband [yet].
Susan: When I was in my mid-forties, I married a man I’d known in high school but hadn’t seen since. He thought it was very cool that I’d shot the video when I told him about it. He remembered watching it and liking the video, being a big fan of Billy Joel’s. He said he watched MTV for hours at a time, just like everyone else, and of course, didn’t realize I was the woman in the red dress, much less that he’d marry me one day.
Barbara: My husband worked on some things as a kid in the ‘80s and so he was not impressed.

Kids? 

Melody: No, only the four-legged, barking variety.
Lupe: I have four children: 12, 17, 20, and 22. They are constantly amazed that I had a life and did things before they were around. “You can juggle?”, etc. Perhaps I haven’t really mentioned much about what exactly I used to do, so when they stumbled across the fact that I was in a music video they were pretty much blown away! I think one of their friends from high school was the one who discovered this. They were very excited to share the news with me. I think it upped my level of coolness in their eyes. Still trying to hold on to a few of the mysteries of my previous life…wouldn’t want to use up my hipness all at once.
Frankie: I have a beautiful four-year-old daughter and a brilliant and handsome 13-year-old son.
Marlee: My children are 17, 13, 11, and 9.
Susan: I don’t have any kids.
Barbara: I have two children, 3 and 6.

What do they think of the video? 

Frankie: I just showed it to them and they thought momma was being funny!
Marlee: I don’t know if they’ve seen it. But now that you mention it, I’m going to show it to them!
Barbara: They have seen my videos and some of the films I worked on; kids don’t care.

What did you think when you first heard from me?

Melody: You ended up in my spam folder. I deleted your email before reading it all the way through because it looked like you were trying to sell me something. I would not have read it at all if the subject had not mentioned “We Didn’t Start the Fire.” My agent forwarded [your follow-up message] to me and so I took a closer look.
Lupe: It was sort of a funny story getting tracked down by you. My husband came home from New York where he had been shooting a movie and said that a casting director had left him a message and was trying to track me down. When I had done the Billy Joel video, I was using a stage name of Meg James. God only knows how I got talked into that. I guess being young and naive had something to do with it.

Anyway, apparently I was very hard to find since I no longer use that name and am not acting at the moment. But somehow through much perseverance on your part and the casting agent, Paul Ventura, someone put two and two together and figured out Meg James and Lupe Gidley were one and the same. And “isn’t she the one married to that actor Chris McDonald” and voila…you found me. I must admit I was quite flattered that someone had expended so much energy on my behalf!
Frankie: I thought it was rather nice!
Marlee: I was happy to answer your questions. No one has asked me to answer questions in depth about this video.
Susan: I was curious so I looked you up, and was very happy to see that people are interested in the music videos of the ‘80s. I’m very proud to have been a part of an emerging new art form. My part was tiny, but I was there and I loved it.
Barbara: It was nice to have someone get a hold of me and make me remember those days. Wish I had more of a story to tell but it was such a small part and was totally cut out of the video.

Has anyone else ever interviewed you about this? 

Melody: I have been interviewed many times for various publications. I almost always mentioned the video as propelling me into my current career.
Frankie: No interviews for publication about this project, no.
Marlee: I’ve not been interviewed about this video for any other publication.
Susan: No. As you can imagine, most people in the media have been more interested in the fact that I once dated someone famous. I don’t mind talking about Jerry—he’s a very interesting guy—but it’s so nice to be asked about my accomplishments, so thank you!

Susan, Jerry, and Susan’s brother 1986
Have you appeared at any fan conventions to sign autographs? If not, would you?

Melody: No and yes.
Frankie: Fan convention? Autographs? I honestly don’t think anybody is really gonna want my autograph! But if they asked, I would humbly give it to them!
Susan: Are there conventions for music videos? I’d be happy to sign!

Did you stay in touch with Billy Joel or anyone else from the video?

Melody: No, I don’t know him or them personally.
Frankie: Nope. It’s just a cool memory, and on celluloid forever!
Marlee: Billy allowed me to use lyrics from “My Life” for the opening of my autobiography and we worked together doing the National Anthem at the Super Bowl in 2007. I don’t hang out with him socially since he lives in New York and I live in California but whenever he comes to town for a concert, I’m there!
Susan: Marlee Matlin called shortly after we shot the video (through an interpreter because she’s hearing impaired), and we stayed in touch for a bit. I was impressed at how friendly it was of her to call me. She was a very big deal, having won an Oscar for Children of a Lesser God, and yet went out of her way to find my number and contact me to say how nice it was to have worked with me. I was impressed. Marlee and I only stayed in touch briefly after the shoot.

I don’t know the names of the other actors on the video, but I remembered seeing the little girl in our scene in several things afterwards and was pleased to see how well her career was going. I looked her up on IMDb today (having remembered a film she was in), and her name is Noley Thornton. She was adorable, of course, and quite an exceptional actor.

Marlee, when was the last time you were in touch with Billy? 

Marlee: In 2010 when I published my autobiography and asked for permission to use some of his lyrics for the opening of my book.

How do you look back on the experience?

Melody: It was great. It set me on the path to a really fabulous career as an impersonator and tribute artist. I doubt I would have pursued it otherwise. I think [the video] is still relevant because of the brilliance of Billy Joel and the time travel aspect.
Frankie: It was a joy to work on! Thank you for digging up that old memory! I [just] had a peek at the music video on YouTube with the kids. Fun times! Thank you for caring!
Marlee: It was fantastic to have been part of a number one video! It’s there forever and I’m very proud of it.
Susan: I feel so lucky to have had such an interesting life as a young woman, and even luckier to have mementos like this amazing video. Now, I write about my former life. It seemed normal to me at the time, but now I see how unusual it was both to have had a career in an exciting business and to have known so many interesting people in my personal life.

Anything you’d like to add? 

Melody: Music videos are a great way for aspiring actors to get some on-camera and set experience. Once in a great while, an appearance will be noticed by the right people and lead to other things. Courteney Cox comes to mind. Even if you are not pursuing a performing career, everyone ought to be an extra at least once in [his/her] life.
Susan: Thank you for your interest in this video, and in the whole ‘80s music video world. I’m proud to have been even a small part of it.

Tweet about this interview to @billyjoel @MarleeMatlin @scmcnabb @Zencasagreen!

Next: Billy Idol, “Cradle of Love” (1990).

Comic-Con 2014: Bill Finger rises

On 7/24-25/14, I had the privilege of attending Comic-Con International (commonly called San Diego Comic-Con) to appear on three panels, two of which were Bill Finger-focused:
“Spotlight on Bill Finger, the Co-Creator of Batman”; 7/24/14, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., room 4; panelists: Tom Andrae, Mark Evanier, Lee Meriwether, Jens Robinson, Michael Uslan, me; moderator: Travis Langley“Kids’ Heroes, Capes, and Journeys: Does One Size Fit All?”; 7/24/14, 4-5 p.m., room 29A; panelists: Frank Cammuso, Alexis E. Fajardo, Jenni Holm, Matthew Holm, Dave Roman, me; moderator: Meryl Jaffe“Who Created Batman?”; 7/25/14, 2:30-3:30 p.m., (room) CAC 8; panelists: Tom Andrae, Athena Finger, Denny O’Neil, Brad Ricca, Jens Robinson, Arlen Schumer, Nicky Wheeler-Nicholson, me; moderator: Travis Langley
I came via train from Los Angeles and sat next to a DC Comics lawyer who ended up attending both Batman panels I was on. After the first panel, an attendee kindly asked if he could have my badge. While flattering, I had to say no because I could not get back in without it. 


A writer for Huffington Post Italy interviewed me with some insightful questions; he also asked if I planned to attend the screening of Gotham to publicly ask if Bill’s name will be in the credits. (I see his point but feel that would not be a proper approach.)

Before the “Who Created Batman” panel, a friend said he assumed I would simply stand up at the start of it, say “Bill Finger,” drop the mike, and swagger out. I did not do that but I did share the suggestion with the audience.

Photo recap:
 Appropriate that mere minutes after arriving in San Diego,I passed the Hall of Justice.

 First San Diego appearance for Athena!
 Hard to imagine Bill’s name appearing in a DC ad even a couple of years ago.

 Truly one of the biggest honors of my career: being asked to write about Bill for the souvenir booklet that went to all 130,000 attendees.
Selfie with (restored) Detective #27.
 Selfie with (restored) Action Comics #1.



 Standing room only Finger panel panorama. (Panelrama.)
 Athena and Ben accepting a posthumous Inkpot Award for Bill.
 The Finger panelists.

 Another great turnout: the “Who Created Batman?” panel.


 Mark Evanier and Athena presenting the Bill Finger Awards during the Eisners.

 One of the great joys and honors of my Comic-Con was not onlymeeting Susan Eisenberg, who portrayed Wonder Woman in  Justice League and (my favorite) Justice League Unlimited, but also getting to hang out with her.She is fun, gracious...a class act.
 Susan and Phil LaMarr (Green Lantern John Stewart in JL and JLU).We also tried to see their teammate Kevin Conroy, whom I paneled with in May, but alas, the timing did not work.
 Susan and the official Wonder Woman of Six Flags (which one, I forget).
 Golden Age granddaughters!The grandchildren of Shelly Moldoff, Sheldon Mayer, and Bill Finger.

The “Hero Complex” column of the Los Angeles Times covered the Finger panel; excerpts:




A gift for Derek Wolfford for doing me a huge (non-Con) favor and for running the Bill Finger Appreciation Group on Facebook... the Detective Comics #27 tribute issue signed by six Bat-luminaries: 
Athena Finger (top)Denny O’Neil (below Athena)Jim Steranko (below Denny)Neal Adams (below Steranko)Lee Meriwether (the second live-action Catwoman, and an articulate delight)Michael Uslan

Name drop section:

It was fun to catch up in person with…
everyone on my panelsChris DuffyDan SantatJeff TrexlerGerard JonesJosh ElderGlen WeldonKaren GreenScott McCloudCharlie KochmanMelissa WileyJamie CovilleDavid SiegelKendall WhitehouseRay FeigheryChelle Mayer
It was a pleasure to meet in person for the first time…
Jim SterankoDenny O’NeilNeal AdamsAlethia MariottaA.J. and Erica SchultzPat EvansPhil NelDean TrippeJoey CavalieriChad Beckerman (also from Cheshire, CT)Shannon HaleMike MaihackMatt Keller (at DC)
Thank you again to…
Travis Langley and Mark Evanier for getting me thereGary Sassaman for asking me to write about Bill for the souvenir bookJenni Holm for inviting me to be on a panel with an impressive crewMeryl Jaffe for moderating said panel with wit and depthSheila Marie Everett and Raina Telgemeier for getting me into the Scholastic partyAthena and Ben for making your big debut

The Girl in the Video: “Kiss and Tell” (1988)

Introduction to series “The Girl in the Video 2” (including list of interviewees).

The video: “Kiss and Tell” by Bryan Ferry.

The girl-now-woman: Denice Lewis.



How old were you when you appeared in the “Kiss and Tell” video?

I was in my twenties during that video but I don’t recall what year we filmed it. [I was born in] 1960, if you find out when it was filmed and do the math.

Where were you living at the time?

London.

What music videos, shows, or movies had you appeared in prior to that?

I honestly can’t really say what came before or after. In those days I was working and traveling so much and in different times zones—the time frames are really a blur.

I did a video for Duran Duran’s [side project band] Arcadia—“The Flame”; Elton John and Cliff Richards’s “Slow Rivers”; Zucchero and Paul Young’s “Sensa Una Donna”; Flash and the Pan (title unknown); Right Said Fred’s “I’m Too Sexy”—they [used] footage from [a] Vivienne Westwood show in their video and didn’t pay anyone [the film was considered public domain]; Praise (a band including George Michael’s cousin); and a group called Conspiracy (title unknown).

The glimpse of Denice (right) in “I’m Too Sexy”

Interestingly enough, about a year after I did the video for Conspiracy, I was at a pub with my acting coach and one of the boys from Conspiracy was also there. He came up to me to inquire if I was me. We chatted for a bit and then out of the blue, I decided to ask them to write a song for me. Andros [Andreas Georgiou], George Michael’s cousin, had suggested that I try sing myself because we were lip syncing in the Praise video and apparently I did it perfectly on the first take.
So I went to Nick Gatfield at EMI and asked for a budget to record a demo which he agreed to; Sasha and Michael wrote the song and off we went to Depot Studios and recorded it. Apparently EMI really liked it so they gave us another budget to do a second one which was really good as well.

Around that time I was having my 30th birthday party and everyone came. It was really crazy. George Michael was the DJ and all kinds of friends (over 300) showed up at my house. Richard Branson and John Kerry [MTN: yes, the future presidential candidate] crashed and George kept playing my records over and over to dance.



Amazingly, Richard Branson asked me if I wanted a recording deal with Virgin and I told him I was already with EMI. Can you imagine? We had a full-color page in Tatler Magazine’s Society Page and The London Times called it “Party of the Year”! All of the

How were you cast in “Kiss and Tell”?

The same way most of them are. A simple audition then perhaps a callback and then maybe you book it.


Do you remember what your reaction was when you were cast?

[No, but] I remember my reaction when I booked [the 1999 film] End of Days. I thought my manager was joking and the when she convinced me that she was serious I started jumping up and down and running around the house screaming in my leopard print terrycloth bathrobe and managed to tinkle on myself!

Where was the video filmed?

It was at one of the studios. I really don’t remember the name.

How long was the shoot?

We shot all day.

How did you feel making the video?

I felt high from the pain meds but happy and having fun.


What was the hardest part of the shoot?

I don’t ever look at any aspect of shooting as being hard. I love working in front of a camera and to me it is always exciting.

How was it to work with Bryan Ferry? What was he like? Did he hit on you?

LOL! He’s great! And he definitely didn’t hit on me. For some reason the theory about the casting couch and stars hitting on you has [not] happened to me once in all the time that I have worked.

Any funny stories from the shoot?

I had just flown from Houston, where I had surgery on my right foot to remove a broken sesamoid bone that had become arthritic and arrived in London just in time to go straight to the studio to shoot the video. Thank God the doctor had given me some pain medication as we were dancing all day! That was no easy “feet” (pun intended!) in my circumstance!

Naturally I took the medicine and as I was walking up the stairs, I tripped and fell up the stair and torn my stiches! Ouch! As I’m sure you have guessed by now, it was time for another dose. “Someone” (and I won’t say who!) noticed me taking [the medication] and managed to convince me that I wasn’t the only person in need of pain relief. In the end we all were very “happy” during filming of what turned out to be a great video.

Anything go wrong on the shoot?

Not that I am aware of.

What did you think of the video?

Love it!

What did your parents think of it?

I doubt they ever saw it. And they’ve both been deceased for many years.

What did your friends think of it?

If they like Bryan Ferry, they love it.

Did the video ever affect your dating life in any way (i.e. when you first told boyfriends you were the woman in it)?

Not at all. I was a very independent person and it wouldn’t matter to me if they didn’t like it. I wasn’t doing it for them. I was doing it for me, my career, and my paycheck.

Did you receive fan mail? If so, do you still have any of it?

I’ve received a boatload of it and if I still have any of it would be in my storage unit.

Did the video generate any controversy that you know of?

It generated a lot of appreciation from his fans.

What were you paid?

British pounds! LOL!

Were you ever recognized in public?

LOL! All the time. I have no idea when last. No stories, really, other than some of the amazing things people will ask for in fan mail like money to travel with and [the opportunity] to become my personal photographer.


Tell me about shooting the Arcadia video “The Flame.” How was it to work with Duran Duran? Any funny/unusual stories from the set?

That was great! The guys are all so super creative and supportive. It took us three very long days to shoot that one. We would wrap around 3 a.m., drive home for an hour, and be right back on set at 8 or 9 a.m. Thank God I was never one who needed much sleep! 

Julie Anne [Rhodes, then-wife of Duran Duran keyboardist Nick Rhodes] was pregnant with Taji [Tatjana] at that time, so I think it was difficult for her seeing me as the new kid on the block spending so much time with Nick [Rhodes], but very soon we became friends; although we don’t spend much time together these days due to our very busy schedules, we love each other and I would trust her with my life. She beautiful inside and out, talented, has an amazing sense of humor! My friendship with her was the greatest thing that I received out of the Arcadia video.


Did you ever meet other women who were female leads in a mainstream ‘80s rock video?

I think the one I remember most was Julie Pankhurst from the Robert Palmer video. She is such a great beauty and a darling person.

If you went to college, where and what did you study?

I went to San Jacinto College in Houston and studied cosmetology. Graduated in 1980 and then worked in a salon for three years before I was discovered.

What are you doing these days?

I am an artist now.


Where do you live?

I live in the West Adams Historic District (Los Angeles) with my teenage sweetheart, Ken Steen. We reconnected after 35 years and are planning to marry.


We live with our seven babies: Romeo (a pitbull, 4 years old), Orlando and Othello (teacup Chihuahuas, 4 years old), King Cat Cecil (25 years old), Queen Monkee Monk (15 years old), Princess Onyx (age unknown), and Bijoux, the rare spot-bellied bonsai tiger (approximately 6 weeks old). She somehow managed to crawl into the engine of an SUV that belongs to my neighbor and survive [a] trip from another location to our building. After several attempts to rescue her by many neighbors and animal control, my next-door neighbor and I got her out and now she lives with us. We are a rather big family!

What was Ken’s reaction when he learned you were in music videos?

Ken was very proud when he saw all of the videos. He loved it! He thought it was cool! That is an exact quote from him this very moment.

If you have kids, what do they think of the video?

No actual children so I can’t say.

What did you think when you first heard from me?

You may find this answer strange, but I’ve always be very tuned-in spiritually and about a week before I heard from you, I had a very strong sensation that someone would be contacting me for something about my life during that time. And then you showed up!

Has anyone else ever interviewed you about this?

Not at all.

Have you appeared at any fan conventions to sign autographs? If not, would you?

No, I never have and if I were to consider it there would have to be an interesting offer on the table.

Did you stay in touch with Bryan Ferry after the shoot?

I did a shoot with Lucy Ferry (his wife at that time) and Manolo Blahnik’s sister for something and ran into Bryan here and there, but we didn’t attempt to stay in contact.

When was the last time you were in touch with him?

In the ‘80s.

How do you look back on the experience?

With great fondness not only for that video but for the entire experience of living and working in the UK.


Tweet about this interview to @bryanferry @DeniceLewis!

Next: Billy Joel, “We Didn’t Start the Fire” (1989).

The Girl in the Video: “Endless Summer Nights” (1988)

Introduction to series “The Girl in the Video 2” (including list of interviewees).

The video: “Endless Summer Nights” by Richard Marx.

The girl-now-woman: Blueberry Blervaque.




How old were you when you appeared in the “Endless Summer Nights” video?

I was born in 1962, so...

Where were you born?

Paris.

Parents both French?

Yes.

How did you get the nickname “Blueberry”?

Blueberry is my real name, translated. “Myrtille” is the French word for “blueberry.” I was a breech baby and I was suffocating; I turned purple blue. That’s why my mom called me Blueberry.

Friends call you Blue?

Yes.

When did you move to the States?

When I was 21. I wanted a different life for myself than what my parents did—working from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. just to pay bills. I just took my bag one day and left. I chose California because of a dream. I had big expectations. I studied hairdressing in Beverly Hills for a while and passed my things, but realized if I didn’t have work on the side, it would be a tough time. [So I also pursued modeling.] I’m a lucky girl—even in hard times, good things happened.

Where were you living at the time you shot the video?

Malibu.

What music videos, shows, or movies had you appeared in prior to that?

A little bit of everything—TV shows, commercials, a lot of magazines. Modeling. [NOTE: On

I think I know what you mean—always hungry for something else. I think that keeps us young.

Yes!

How were you cast in “Endless Summer Nights”?

I just went down and did my audition like usual. Sometimes I don’t want to go and the ones I don’t want to go to, I get. So I always go negative. (laughs)

Do you remember what your reaction was when you were cast—or was it just another job?

Nothing special—just another job. But I thought Richard Marx was awesome, very kind. Really brilliant, and that’s rare. I remember that. [Richard Marx remembering Blueberry.]

Had you heard of Richard Marx?

Yeah, because he had another video before that one that was quite popular. I did like his music.

Where was the video filmed?

Wow. I think San Diego and (laughs) I don’t remember. It was a long time ago!

How long was the shoot?

I think it was a couple days.

How did you feel making the video?

I remember that when I had to be interested in him at the end—the love thing—I was super nervous. I was very shy. I’m actually a very shy person. He was really nice. I brought the tears thinking about my family; at first he thought he offended me somehow, but it all worked. [NOTE: There is no crying scene in “Endless Summer Nights” so she may be thinking of “Walk on Water” by Eddie Money.]


What was the hardest part of the shoot?

There was not really a hard part besides that last scene.

How was it to work with Richard Marx? What was he like?

He was going to Japan for a huge show and Japanese people were there filming him. He was introducing me. He was very funny. A good guy. I met his fiancée at the time, or maybe wife, Cynthia Rhodes, I think it was.

Any funny stories from the shoot?

I remember it was fun but don’t remember special things.

Anything go wrong on the shoot?

Nothing went wrong. Smooth as a baby’s bottom.

What did you think of the video?

I thought it was well filmed. Everybody was happy about it.


Did it feel different for you at the time?

No, because I worked on so many videos, but [up to then it was] sexy dancing and things like that. A couple of times I was just jiggling around. (laughs) It’s not me. Then I started doing shoots with stories, like the Eddie Money video. I liked that type better because you could express emotions.



What did your parents think of it?

They loved it. Where I come from, it was something extraordinary. It made them happy. For me it was just a tool.

What did your friends think of it?

They loved it. I enjoyed doing the work but didn’t like the praise too much for it.

Did the video ever affect your dating life in any way (i.e. when you first told boyfriends you were the woman in it)?

Many times, with different videos. I was like “Oh great, this is going to be a shallow relationship.” (laughs) “But might be fun for a little while.”


Did you receive fan mail? If so, do you still have any of it?

I get tons of mail from all of the videos, Married...with Children. I’m not a person who keeps—I move forward in life and don’t get attached. I remember moments but that’s that. I don’t even know if I have a copy of the video. I hate computers.

What were you paid?

I was one of the ones who got paid real good—$1,500 or $2,000 [per shoot], depending. Then my rate went up. Good money at the time.

Were you ever recognized in public?

Yes but I always tried to escape that because I am shy. I thought I should be an example but [someone who wants the attention is] not who I am, so I just say thank you [and slip away].

Did you appear in other music videos after that?

I did about 12 or something. The Cars, Alice Cooper—I opened the MTV Music Awards with Alice Cooper. I played the cello with him on stage. I knew how to play like four notes. (laughs) I did well.


They said after [the performance was over], my job was to walk off stage and the camera would follow me to Kenny Loggins. They’d they told me to sit on his lap so I did, but I also gave him a hug. I guess he was not feeling well—going through something hard at the time. I think the hug was better than just sitting on his lap. I choreographed that one myself without their approval. (laughs) Then I sat next to him.

Which of the videos you did is your favorite?

I like the Eddie Money one. The Richard Marx, too, because it’s sweet and adorable.

Did you ever met other women who were female leads in a mainstream ‘80s rock video?

Not really. I never really socialized—after a shoot, I went right back to my surfboard. I don’t want to waste people’s time and can see who I want to talk with and who I don’t. I’m a choosy person.

If you went to college, where and what did you study?

Yes. In France. I studied psychology. I have a master’s. And I used it here for some of my friends who had problems. (laughs) A free consultation on the beach while surfing!

What are you doing these days?

I’m a surfer dude. I live on the edge, like to be in the water, in the sun.



How do you make a living?

I teach surfing and stand up paddling. I spend most of my time with the ocean. Life is good.

I had a dream but people are treacherous in Hollywood. I want to keep my soul sane. I tried to do music. A couple of years ago, I had meetings. I did the whole shebang.

I got involved with two rappers (Fred the Godson @fredthegodson and Mopreme Shakur @mopremeshakur, brother of Tupac) and I recorded a couple of songs. Everything was going perfect but then something went wrong and they boycotted my song. So now I can’t release it. [MTN: But one is here.] Meanwhile my family in France has difficulties with health so I have to travel a lot. I have to be where it counts. In between, the only thing I have is surfing.

You wrote these songs?

Yes, with a producer, Michelle Bell. We came up with a great product. Maybe it’s not over! Maybe I’ll get a call one of these weeks. Here comes grandma with a hit song! (laughs)

Was it rap?

It was pop. My idea was to bring together east and west—two rappers who disliked each other—and it worked.

So what went wrong?

What created the problem was that one of the rappers was becoming quickly famous; I paid him cash to sing one verse and his producer said he wasn’t allowed to lay down a track down like that because he’s not a pop artist, he’s a real rapper. But I couldn’t cut him out of the song.

He didn’t come to your defense?

No, but even if he did, he couldn’t do anything about it. I’m an idiot—I trusted the wrong people. It’s saddening. You can see more about this online—search the name “Tille Blue.” You can read about it and see photos.

Are you still in touch with either of the rappers?

No, I’m not in touch with them anymore.

Do you own the songs?

Yes.

So you could do them with somebody else.

I tried but it didn’t work out the same. It was not as powerful.

I got approached by another producer. He liked my writing. He wanted to collaborate on a country song—do it as a duet with an American and a Canadian singer. I wrote a song called “Howling at the Moon.” He wanted to break the song in Canada and then bring it here.

One kid was in Canada and is becoming young country star. The other is Jake Parr, a 17-year-old kid in America whose father is Shawn Parr, the #1 country DJ on the radio. But [it didn’t work out because the] kid in Canada wanted the song to himself. 

Do you still live in Malibu?

Yes.

Are you married?

No.

Have you been?

Yes.

What did he think when he learned of the video?

I met him before all that. I married an actor called Sam Jones when I was 23.

Wow—as in Sam Jones who played Flash Gordon (in the 1980 film)?

Yes. I only date superheroes. (laughs)


I have a thing for superheroes myself. How long were you married?

Three years.

How did you meet him?

I was working with a doctor as a trainer at a resort, a rejuvenation spa, on the island of Mauritius. He was there shooting a film and staying at the hotel. I met him at the breakfast buffet.

Are you ever in touch with each other now?

No.

Kids?

No.

When and how did you learn to surf?

After my divorce, I met a man named Vincent Klyn. He was a surf champ and taught me how to surf. He was also in Cyborg, the Jean-Claude Van Damme film (1989). We were together for eight years.

What did you think when you first heard from me?

(laughs) “I don’t want to do it! I don’t want him to bother me!”

So what made you change your mind?

Because my mind has been going all over the place lately and I’m very spiritual. You kept trying. Finally my little voice—nonstop—said “I’m just going to give him five minutes.”


Has anyone else ever interviewed you about this?

Only a long time ago—I think I did something about Eddie Money.

Have you been in touch with Richard Marx—or Eddie Money—since then?

No. I told you I don’t really socialize. Even if I bumped into them, I wouldn’t say anything.

Have you appeared at any fan conventions to sign autographs?

No.

Would you?

I don’t know if I would do it. I would have to see what happens.

How do you look back on the experience?

I was a very lucky girl who had tons of fun who made good money even though it was not me. I played so many different roles that after that I only looked for perfection in my life and it’s never there. I am going to think positive. Third time’s a charm. (laughs)


Anything you’d like to add?

I wish you the best. Hope it takes you where want to go. So buckle up, boy, and get ready!

Tweet about this interview to @richardmarx @ImEddieMoney @tilleblue! 

Next: Bryan Ferry, “Kiss and Tell” (1988).

Sister Christian, oh the time has come…

…to meet in person.

On my pre-Comic-Con stopover in Los Angeles, on 7/21/14, I had the pleasure of chatting in person with two of the stars of round 2 of my “girl in the video” interview series.

The first was Karen Peterson Matchinga, but our time was so limited and conversation so nice that we forgot to take a photo. She’s generous and compassionate—truly a pleasure. You may hear more about her here as her works-in-progress take shape.

The second was Macha Bennet-Shephard, AKA Sister Christian, a week to the day that her interview posted to enthusiastic response. Macha is also an absolute delight. Grounded, interested, intelligent—and a good mom, too. (I can say that because I saw it; she brought her 9-year-old son, who impressed me by, among other things, ordering a salad.)

Macha and me
Getting an engaging interview out of someone can be a good challenge. Getting a friend out of an engaging interview is a good fortune.

The Girl in the Video: “Father Figure” (1988)

Introduction to series “The Girl in the Video 2” (including list of interviewees).

The video: “Father Figure” by George Michael.

The girl-now-woman: Tania Harcourt-Cooze (Tania Coleridge).



How old were you when you appeared in the “Father Figure” video?

About 21.

Where were you living at the time?

I had just moved out to L.A. from Milan, though home was England. I was in L.A. for eight years.

What music videos, shows, or movies had you appeared in prior to that?

I had done quite a few, but none on the scale of “Father Figure,” where I was the lead. I’d done the Stones, Kid Creole and the Coconuts.

How were you cast in “Father Figure”?

I don’t really remember. When it came down to it, there were two of us left. You’d not meet [others in the running] till the end. The other girl was much shorter, blond—completely different look than me.


Do you remember what your reaction was when you were cast?

In those days, you just rolled from one job to another.

Were you a fan of George Michael’s music?

Not particularly. I certainly became a very big fan afterward, and not only because of the video.

How did you feel making the video? Anything stand out?

It was very exhausting. It was the first time I’d met George. He was sweet, brilliant. For some reason, they asked me if I could use my own wardrobe. The Winnebago that I was using [as a trailer] got robbed one of those nights, during the shoot. That [distinctive] white coat was the only piece that didn’t get stolen, probably because I was wearing it at the time. I remember seeing the Winnebago smashed to bits. That created a hoo-ha.


Just yours was broken into?

I think it was just mine.

What was the hardest part of the shoot?

It was a very big shoot, downtown L.A. It was 3-4 days—longer than usual. Heavy schedule. George was in it very little, in a way. I had no idea the extent I would be in the video. I had not seen the storyboards. Barely slept, I remember.



How was it to work with George Michael? What was he like?

He was great. A very intelligent, witty dude. I adore him. At the time, he was in that period of revealing himself as a gay man. It was a sensitive time.

You knew he was gay?

Yes, from getting so close. Getting to know him over those few days, he was clearly gay to me. I think he probably had to dig pretty deep to get through those love scenes. I remember it being quite tricky for him but we got through it. We had to kiss again and again…“take 37.” (laughs) We had to do the scene where he slaps me again and again. I had to say “George, just kiss me properly so we can get out of here!”

You could just tell he was gay—he didn’t say?

It was perfectly clear.

Any funny stories from the shoot?

It was so long ago. Little bits and pieces.

Anything go wrong on the shoot?

Andy Morahan shot it…here’s an interesting story for you. A very long cut of it was produced…I think a 20-minute version was done? I don’t know if I’ve even seen that. At the time, I had been with Tony Scott for some five years. He wasn’t sure if he liked the idea of me being in a love scene if he wasn’t involved—so he shot the love scene. Just he and George and I there. You can notice a change in the way the film rolls.

What did Andy say about that?

I can’t remember. Andy was a friend. I think it was fairly amicable. Perhaps the collaboration was not a bad idea anyway. We were quite a high-profile couple in those days.

What did you think of the video?

Interestingly enough, at the time, I hated it. I was never particularly fond of anything I’d done. I never did enjoy watching them. What was interesting about it—having the model being such a major part of the video.

What did your parents think of it?

I did quite a lot of racy stuff in the ‘80s. I worked with Helmut Newton. I was often half-clothed looking suggestive, in a sophisticated way. I think it might have been hard for them to stomach. I remember my father had a hard time with the press ringing him up. For the next six months to a year after the video came out, I did press with George. The press would say I was his girlfriend. Very obvious cut-and-paste [i.e. fake] jobs of me on a beach with George. It upset my father that I was supposedly going out with George but hadn’t told him.

Did the video ever affect your dating life in any way (i.e. when you first told boyfriends you were the woman in it)?

I guess in a way. Most people seemed to know. I didn’t have many relationships after Tony—one more and then I married my husband. It became a big part of my modeling career. It marked my chart as a video vixen.

Did the video generate any controversy that you know of?

It created a lot of controversy over here. In fact it was banned in England because of the abuse of women aspect—the slapping. Shown only late nights. A cut that could be shown in England was done. I can’t remember it straight.


What were you paid?

10,000—can’t remember if it was dollars or pounds.

Was that a typical fee for a video?

I recall you got paid a lump sum. With commercials you got your day rate and then repeat fees depending on how much it was showed. If you’re doing something like a chocolate commercial, you got paid well so you wouldn’t do other chocolate commercials for a year. The George Michael video got so much airplay, it overexposed me.

Were you recognized in public?

It became so huge. It positively took over my life for a while—the impact of it worldwide. I remember going into a music store in Venezuela and seeing it play on a huge screen on the wall. You never think people will associate it with you but I was getting mobbed in the store. People today would say it was going viral. Very iconic. In terms of screen time it was one of the biggest things I did in a way. People recognized me especially in Heathrow Airport. I got rushed through the airport being mobbed by young kids. I threw blankets over my head. People recognized me from it for years after.

The boyfriend of one of my girlfriends recently said “You caused a stir when we were all at school.” He’s about 10-15 years younger than I am and was about seven when the video came out.


Did you appear in other music videos after that?

Nothing on the scale of this one.

Did you ever meet other women who were female leads in a mainstream ‘80s rock video?

Not necessarily. It was part of our careers, all of us. I did a lot of commercials. My market was much bigger in motion picture—videos.

If you went to college, where and what did you study?

I was at Fine Arts College in London. Art history and drama.

What are you doing these days?

Beautiful and interesting project that I’m working on: designing Indian jewelry. My partner is Indian. I spent a lot of this year abroad. Polki Jeune is the name of the company. Polki is a type of diamond setting.

I saw that you and your husband run/ran a chocolate company?

Yes, they did two TV shows about it here. I moved to Venezuela with my husband [Willie Harcourt-Cooze] and bought a chocolate farm. My husband and I divorced after 17 years, sadly. He still runs the company Willie’s Cacao. Available in lots of boutique shops and countries, but I don’t think the U.S. yet.

from 2009 documentary show  Willie’s Chocolate Revolution: Raising the Bar
Where do you live?

Outside of London in a really cute village called Marlboro, like the cigarettes. But it’s a very smoke-free zone. (laughs)

If you are/were married, what was your future husband’s reaction when he learned you were in this video?

He knew about it. It was a strong part of my career.

Kids?

Three—Sophia 15, William 14, and Eve 10.

What do they think of the video?

It’s fairly raunchy and they were little till not long ago. Four or five years ago, a director friend Jake Narva was over and he showed them! All the kids sitting around the kitchen table. They were all horrified. “When was this? Where was dad? You kissed that man!”

What did you think when you first heard from me?

I’m always pro people documenting these things. I thought good on you for putting this together. I was very happy to try and help out. [MTN: I absolutely love that Tania shares my sentiment on the cultural importance of preserving stories like hers.]

Has anyone else ever interviewed about this?

Not about this video.

Have you appeared at any fan conventions to sign autographs?

Not specifically, not planned. I’ve signed autographs through my life—like that time in Caracas.

Would you?

Yeah, of course I would.

Did you stay in touch with George Michael?

Yeah, I did. He’s a great mate.


Still?

Yeah. I haven’t seen him this year but do see him. He’s a loyal, cool guy. A group all stayed good friends over the years—George, Kathy Jeung, me.

When was the last time you were in touch?

Last year.

How do you look back on the experience of this video?

A great experience. A real taste of something different. The worldwide impact was fascinating.

Tweet about this interview to @GeorgeMichael @Taniahc1!

Next: Richard Marx, “Endless Summer Nights” (1988).