Lexi Minetree Reveals 15-Minute Morning Ritual She Used to Channel Reese Witherspoon in “Elle” (Exclusive)

**Lexi Minetree Prepares to Step into Elle Woods’ Shoes in New Series**

Lexi Minetree is set to take on the beloved role of a young Elle Woods in the forthcoming Prime Video series, *Elle*, a prequel to the iconic *Legally Blonde*. The 25-year-old actress is well aware of the legacy she inherits from Reese Witherspoon, who originally brought the character to life in the classic 2001 film. To ensure she captures the essence of Elle, Minetree developed a meticulous preparation routine.

In speaking to *PEOPLE* at the New York City premiere of *Elle*, Minetree revealed that each filming day commenced with a dedicated warming-up session. “Every morning, I had a 15-minute warmup that focused on both body and voice to really immerse myself into the character,” she said. This routine was vital for her, especially since she often “sounded rough” first thing in the morning.

Minetree described Elle’s voice as “very rhythmic” and noted the precision required to embody the character. “I’m sure some of the crew must have thought I was losing my marbles,” she reflected, acknowledging her quirky on-set antics. “I sounded like a crazy person because I was always muttering lines from the movie to get into character and match Reese’s performance.”

The relationship between Minetree and Witherspoon has been pivotal to her portrayal. After being cast, Witherspoon shared some encouraging advice. “She told me to ensure I drink plenty of water, rest enough, and breathe,” Minetree recounted. “She reminded me to take in every moment of this special opportunity.” The actress felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude after receiving the news of her casting directly from Witherspoon, adding, “I just feel really grateful, honestly.”

Taking on the role of a character as optimistic and self-assured as Elle Woods is not only an honour for Minetree but also a healthy challenge for her psyche. “There is no better character I could play that is good for my mindset to be in,” she expressed recently. “An optimist who believes in herself? That sounds like something I’d want to embody.”

One of the aspects of her performance that makes it unique is Witherspoon’s encouragement to incorporate her own flair into the character. “She gave me permission to add my own little sprinkles of magic,” Minetree explained, emphasising her determination to honour the original while making it her own. “I’m bringing Lexi’s take on this role, continuing in the footsteps of what Reese has created.”

This new series follows a youthful Elle navigating her teenage years in Seattle after her family relocates from the affluent neighbourhood of Bel-Air. Key figures in the cast include Tom Everett Scott and June Diane Raphael as Elle’s parents, alongside Chandler Kinney, James Van Der Beek, and Jessica Belkin in supporting roles.

*Elle* is set to premiere on 1 July 2023 on Prime Video, and anticipation is building for Minetree’s unique interpretation of a character that has continued to resonate with audiences for over two decades. As she prepares to grace screens in *Elle*, Minetree’s journey is not only a significant chapter in her career but a celebration of a character who has inspired many with her belief in empowerment and self-worth.