Hayden Panettiere Attributes Bryan Cranston for Landing Her Role in ‘Malcolm in the Middle’
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Hayden Panettiere reminisces about her time on the set of ‘Malcolm in the Middle’, where she played the role of Jessica, a vivacious babysitter who captures the attention of the main character, Malcolm. At just 14 years old, Panettiere was thrilled to secure this role which allowed her to portray a character unlike any she had played before.
During an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Panettiere revealed that her casting in the show was thanks to Bryan Cranston, who was not only starring in the series but also directing at the time. She recalled the audition process, stating, “I only got the role because Bryan Cranston was directing.” Despite Cranston initially feeling she was not the right fit for the character, he took a chance on her, promising to make it work.
This opportunity held special significance for Panettiere as it was the first time someone had taken such a risk on her. Interestingly, there was a personal connection between Cranston and Panettiere’s family, as he had worked with her mother, Lesley Vogel, in the soap opera ‘Loving’. Panettiere shared that her mother had played Cranston’s wife in the soap opera, adding an extra layer of connection to the audition process.
Panettiere’s experience on ‘Malcolm in the Middle’ was a departure from her previous roles, with the character of Jessica allowing her to showcase a different side of her acting abilities. Despite having already built up a considerable resume with roles in films and other TV shows, Panettiere found the role of Jessica particularly appealing as it challenged the way people perceived her on screen.
The actress expressed her love for comedy and her hopes to explore more comedic roles in her career. Playing Jessica in ‘Malcolm in the Middle’ provided Panettiere with a platform to display her versatility and comedic timing, which she thoroughly enjoyed. Looking back, she reflects on this role as a memorable and rewarding experience in her acting journey.
The warmth and support Panettiere received from Bryan Cranston during her time on the show left a lasting impression on her. His belief in her abilities and willingness to take a chance on her talent boosted her confidence and set her on a path towards further exploring her comedic skills in the entertainment industry.
As Panettiere continues to navigate her acting career, the lessons and encouragement she received from Cranston early on in her journey serve as a testament to the impact of mentorship and support in the competitive world of show business. The bond forged on the set of ‘Malcolm in the Middle’ between Panettiere and Cranston remains a cherished memory for the actress as she looks back on her formative years in the industry.
In conclusion, Hayden Panettiere’s gratitude towards Bryan Cranston for facilitating her role in ‘Malcolm in the Middle’ highlights the importance of mentorship and opportunities in shaping an actor’s career. This collaboration not only enriched Panettiere’s acting experience but also showcased her comedic talents to a wider audience, paving the way for future career endeavors in the entertainment realm.