Annaleigh Ashford, the talented actress known for her role in the show ‘Happy Face,’ recently shared a heartwarming and humorous anecdote about her 8-year-old son, Jack’s innocent reaction to a movie’s love scene. Ashford revealed in an exclusive interview with PEOPLE that her husband, Joe Tapper had allowed Jack to watch an action movie, forgetting about the intimate scene it contained. When Jack asked his mom, “Why were they body kissing?” Ashford and Tapper quickly intervened and fast-forwarded through the scene to shield their son’s innocence.
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The incident left Ashford jokingly blaming her husband for the parenting oversight, admitting, “He made that parenting misstep.” Despite the mishap, Ashford found the innocence in Jack’s question amusing, remarking, “Body kissing: I think that’s the funniest thing I’ve ever heard!” The Tony award-winning actress shared that Jack had also been exposed to racy content before, having been on the set of the fourth season of ‘Masters of Sex’ while she was pregnant with him.
Ashford’s experiences filming ‘Happy Face’ also included being pregnant with her daughter, Lucy, during production. She shared that her pregnant belly brought levity to the set, helping to break the tension during intense scenes. The actress endeavored to keep the atmosphere light on set, emphasizing the importance of laughter and camaraderie among the cast and crew. She described the working environment as a “really happy place to work,” highlighting the support and positivity on set.
The theme of family runs deep for Ashford in her new show ‘Happy Face,’ where she plays Melissa G. Moore, the daughter of notorious serial killer Keith Jesperson. Ashford noted that the series revolves around the complex dynamics within her character’s family, particularly her relationship with her father. She expressed that exploring these intricate relationships was both challenging and thought-provoking, delving into the question of how one would cope with having a family member involved in heinous acts.
Looking beyond the on-screen drama, Ashford revealed her personal connection with true crime, citing her mother as a true crime aficionado who provided insights into the stories she portrayed. The actress shared that her mother’s knowledge of true crime cases, including the Happy Face murder, was a valuable resource during her preparation for roles. As she delved into the character of Melissa, Ashford found herself contemplating the heartbreak and complexities of familial ties in the face of unthinkable crimes.
With ‘Happy Face’ set to premiere on Paramount+, Ashford’s dedication to portraying the nuances of her character’s story shines through. As the actress navigates both the challenges of her on-screen portrayal and the joys of motherhood off-screen, her ability to find humor and lightness amidst darkness underscores her resilience and dedication to her craft. Fans can anticipate a compelling and emotionally charged performance from Ashford in the gripping true crime series.
In conclusion, Annaleigh Ashford’s candid revelation about her son’s innocent query serves as a delightful reminder of the humorous moments that punctuate parenthood. As she immerses herself in roles that explore the depths of familial bonds and dark truths, Ashford’s ability to infuse warmth and levity into her work showcases her versatility as an actress. With ‘Happy Face’ poised to captivate audiences, Ashford’s skillful portrayal promises a compelling and poignant viewing experience for viewers.