Why “Succession”’s J. Smith-Cameron Says ‘We Have to Protect’ a Historic Church Facing Eviction: ‘It’s a Shame’ (Exclusive)

J. Smith-Cameron, best known for her role in ‘Succession’, has taken a stand to protect a historic church in New York City. The actress is lending her support by participating in a staged reading of ‘All the President’s Men’, a 1976 political thriller, in aid of the Center at West Park and the West Park Presbyterian Church. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Smith-Cameron emphasised the importance of preserving the church as a piece of New York City’s cultural and historical legacy, stating, “We have to protect it.”

The West Park Presbyterian Church, located in the Upper West Side of Manhattan, is significant for its unique Romanesque Revival architecture, characterized by red sandstone bricks and a grand stature. Designed by architect Henry Kilburn in 1889, the church has stood as a beacon of cultural heritage since its inception. However, amidst threats of demolition and eviction in favour of high-rise apartments, the future of this architectural gem hangs in the balance.

Smith-Cameron expressed her deep-rooted connection to the cause, citing her family ties to architecture in New York City. She underscored the importance of preserving such landmarks, lamenting the trend of tearing down historical buildings in Manhattan. She voiced concerns over the loss of cultural heritage, noting the efforts of the Landmarks Preservation Commission to resist developers, but emphasising the persistent challenges faced in a city known for constant redevelopment.

Furthermore, the Center at West Park, housed within the church, serves as a hub for diverse artists to thrive and create. Smith-Cameron highlighted the need for such community spaces, especially in the current political climate, as platforms for dialogue and connection. Her involvement in off-Broadway productions and various television shows underscores her commitment to supporting the arts community in New York City.

The upcoming staged reading of ‘All the President’s Men’ holds special significance for Smith-Cameron, who described the film as one of her favourites for its portrayal of the Watergate scandal. The star-studded cast for the reading includes Robert Downey Jr., Mark Ruffalo, Alec Baldwin, Gwyneth Paltrow, Julianne Moore, and other renowned actors. Directed by John Benjamin Hickey, the reading aims to honour the late director Mark Brokaw and shed light on the enduring relevance of the film’s themes of corruption and press freedom.

Smith-Cameron expressed her excitement about collaborating with fellow actors, including those she has admired for years. She singled out her anticipation of working with Robert Downey Jr., as she prepares to share the stage with a roster of talented performers. The event, featuring a talkback with former Washington Post journalists Carl Bernstein and Bob Woodward, promises to be a memorable evening in support of a vital cause.

As tickets for the benefit reading become available, the anticipation grows for an evening of powerful storytelling and advocacy for the preservation of cultural landmarks. Smith-Cameron’s dedication to this cause underscores the importance of community engagement and the arts in safeguarding our shared history. By coming together to support initiatives like the Center at West Park and the West Park Presbyterian Church, we honour not just the past but also pave the way for a more vibrant future for the arts in New York City.