In an appearance on "The Kelly Clarkson Show," actress Carrie Preston shared her experiences from one of her early roles in the 1997 romantic comedy "My Best Friend's Wedding." Known for its charming storyline and memorable performances, the film featured Preston alongside Rachel Griffiths as twin sisters who served as bridesmaids. During the show, Preston revealed that while the movie appears enchanting on screen, the filming process was far from glamorous. She particularly highlighted a pivotal scene where the characters sang "I Say a Little Prayer," which took place in a seafood restaurant and required two grueling 12-hour shooting days. Despite the less-than-ideal conditions, Preston's career has flourished since then, with notable roles in "True Blood" and "The Good Wife."
Preston recounted the challenges faced during the production of "My Best Friend's Wedding," emphasizing how certain scenes that seem effortless on camera can be demanding behind the scenes. The famous singing scene, set in a crab shack and lobster house, demanded immense effort and endurance from the cast. Preston mentioned the intense smell and long hours, noting that by the end of filming, she had grown weary of seafood. This experience underscores the often-overlooked aspects of filmmaking that audiences seldom consider. Yet, despite these difficulties, Preston cherishes the opportunity the role provided, marking it as a significant milestone in her acting journey.
Beyond her work in "My Best Friend's Wedding," Preston's career has seen remarkable growth. Her portrayal of Arlene in "True Blood" from 2008 to 2018 garnered widespread acclaim, and her recurring role as Elsbeth Tascioni in "The Good Wife" and its spin-off "The Good Fight" further solidified her reputation. Currently, Preston stars in CBS's "Elsbeth," where she continues to captivate audiences with her compelling performances. Off-screen, Preston shares her life with actor Michael Emerson, known for his role in "Lost." They have navigated their long-distance relationship with grace, appreciating the time they spend together even more because of the distance.
Reflecting on her career and personal life, Preston acknowledges the unique dynamics involved in working alongside her spouse. In a recent interview, Emerson described the complexity of acting opposite his wife, highlighting the dual layers of performance required. Despite the challenges, both actors find joy in exploring different character dynamics on screen. As "Elsbeth" returns to CBS, fans eagerly anticipate Preston's continued excellence and the intriguing storylines that lie ahead. The film industry may present its share of trials, but for Preston, each challenge only adds depth to her remarkable journey.