Actress Amanda Seyfried, known for roles in films such as “Mamma Mia!” and “Mean Girls,” says she values her connection with the LGBTQ+ community and aims to provide escapism during turbulent times.
“I just exist to make you guys happy!” Seyfried told PRIDE, emphasizing her role as an ally. “I’ve just been lucky to be part of these iconic movies. I’m an ally and we all enjoy the same things. It’s hell out there, especially right now. We have these touchstones to fall back on. We’re more alike than we are different, even in this f’ed up country.”
Seyfried acknowledged the political climate and the role her films play in providing solace. “We can overcome the bulls***,” she said. “We can actually enjoy each other and what art has to offer. Now more than ever, you’ve got to click on ‘Mamma Mia’ or ‘Clueless‘ or ‘Troop Beverly Hills.’ We are living in a world where we have to rely on these movies more than ever and ‘Mamma Mia’ just happens to be one of them. Thank the Lord for putting me in that movie and for putting Cher in the second one!”
Her latest project, the Peacock series “Long Bright River,” delves into serious themes, including the opioid epidemic, sex work, and crime. Seyfried said she was drawn to the project’s exploration of these issues.
“I’m always looking for a challenge,” she said. “This was a pretty important story to tell. We’ve seen stories about the opioid epidemic and it hits all of us. It’s a global thing. This perspective seemed really important and really responsible and really respectful of the community. I never want to stop telling stories about this crisis.”
The series, which also stars Nicholas Pinnock, John Doman, and Ashleigh Cummings, aims to shed light on the human impact of these societal problems.
Pinnock said he hopes the series will shift viewers’ perspectives. “I hope people really shift their perspective,” he said. “It’s one thing seeing it in the media. These are people and there’s a community that really does care. We’re not so different most of the time.”
Cummings highlighted the series’ ability to balance escapism with difficult realities. “There is a healthy amount of dissociation and escapism,” she said. “It’s asking you to stay present with things that are uncomfortable. That’s really powerful filmmaking. It has powerful messaging alongside all the suspense.”
Doman emphasized the universal themes of loss and family. “Everybody has their story,” he said. “A lot of people will be able to relate to this dealing with loss and trying to make sure that your family feels the love that they need and deserve.”
Seyfried’s diverse career, spanning from lighthearted musicals to gritty dramas, has garnered her a dedicated fanbase, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community. Her willingness to address complex social issues in her work and her vocal support for inclusivity have solidified her position as an ally.
“Long Bright River,” based on the novel by Liz Moore, follows Seyfried as Mickey, a police officer patrolling a Philadelphia neighborhood grappling with addiction. The series explores the complexities of family, community, and survival against a backdrop of societal challenges.
The actors stressed that the show is not intended to exploit the suffering of individuals, but rather to humanize those affected by the opioid crisis and other related issues. The series attempts to showcase the strength and resilience of communities facing adversity.
Seyfried has been known to be selective about her roles, and this project is no exception. Her choice to delve into such serious subject matter reflects her commitment to telling stories that resonate with audiences on a deeper level.
The series is currently streaming on Peacock.
