**Valerie Bertinelli Expresses Enthusiasm for Potential ‘Hot in Cleveland’ Reboot to Honour Betty White**
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/valerie-bertinelli-betty-white-hot-in-cleveland-080625-295d8423c94241b7ae8ae12856e1bbad.jpg)
In a heartfelt declaration, Valerie Bertinelli has voiced her eagerness for a reboot of the beloved sitcom “Hot in Cleveland,” aiming to pay tribute to her late co-star, the legendary Betty White. Speaking at a recent event for her new Lifetime film, “Love, Again,” Bertinelli stated her intent to honour both White and the cherished series, which resonated with its audience during its airing from 2010 to 2015.
At the screening and panel discussion held in Los Angeles on 30 April, Bertinelli, 66, mentioned her prior conversations with executive producer Todd Milliner regarding a potential reunion of the show’s cast. “We have to figure out something to do to honour her, to honour the show that people love so much,” she said. Her commitment to the idea of a revival was palpable, as she expressed, “I’m all in for a reboot. So many people are watching it right now, so I want to do a reboot.”
“Hot in Cleveland” centres around three best friends, portrayed by Bertinelli, Jane Leeves, and Wendie Malick, who unexpectedly find themselves living in Ohio after their flight to Paris is diverted. They adapt to their new life in Cleveland and forge a close bond with the sharp-witted caretaker, played by Betty White. The show garnered a loyal fanbase and received critical acclaim for its witty writing and strong performances.
Reflecting on her time working alongside White, Bertinelli shared fond memories of the camaraderie on set, stating, “Hands down, my favourite experience in my working life.” She praised the lack of diva behaviour among the cast, highlighting the genuine connections formed during filming. “We’d hang out in the morning and just talk before rehearsing,” she reminisced, showcasing the warmth that pervaded their working environment.
Bertinelli has often credited White with imparting valuable life lessons during their time together. On “The Drew Barrymore Show” in September, she revealed that some of the best advice she has received came from White, who passed away at the age of 99 in December 2021, just weeks shy of her 100th birthday. “She was grateful for the good, the bad, the ugly, all of it,” Bertinelli recalled, emphasising the importance of gratitude even amid life’s challenges.
The actress’s reflections highlight the impact White had not only on her career but also on her personal outlook, particularly through trying times over the past several years. “I think mistakes are there purposefully to help us learn what not to do,” she noted, underscoring the profound influence of her late colleague.
Moreover, her commitment to reviving “Hot in Cleveland” appears to be a heartfelt effort to celebrate both the legacy of the series and the life of White, whose influence is still deeply felt by fans and colleagues alike. “Let’s just have everybody come back,” Bertinelli proposed, suggesting that a reunion could bring joy not only to the cast but also to the audience that cherished their stories.
As anticipation builds around both the potential reboot and her upcoming project, “Love, Again,” which is set to premiere on Lifetime on 9 May, Bertinelli remains focused on honouring the past while looking forward to new endeavours.
The prospect of a “Hot in Cleveland” revival continues to generate excitement among fans who yearn for the camaraderie and humour that defined the show. As Bertinelli and her co-stars contemplate the next chapter, the undying love for both the series and the late Betty White will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping whatever comes next.