Redstick SF

By Staff Writer
Colonial News Service

It’s not easy being green? Try being red.

In 2003, viewers of the SciFi channel’s mini-series re-envisioning of the 1970s cult hit Battlestar Galactica were treated to the stunning Tricia Helfer as “Six,” the Cylon instrumental in the apocalyptic destruction of the Twelve Colonies and, for that matter, most of humanity.

Indeed, audiences were drawn immediately to the robotic vixen as she slinked in and out of frame in what eventually became the much remarked upon red dress.

But well into the third season, with the show going for a grittier timbre in its much criticized “insurgency” narrative, the red dress is nowhere to be found. Instead, an army of khaki pants and designer jeans have taken the field.

We caught up with the red dress, who was on location shooting a made-for-tv film for the Lifetime channel, I Am My Mother’s Daughter.

Red dress sat down with us and, in the following conversation, talked about Battlestar Galactica, Tricia Helfer, and coming out of the closet. It’s a tale of sorrow, resentment, and a life of permanent press(ure).

Colonial News Service: Red dress, thanks for taking the time to speak with us.

Red Dress: Yeah. Glad to talk with you. (sips coffee)

CNS: You spent nearly two seasons on BSG, what sticks with you the most from your time there?

Red Dress: Really, the people. Mary McDonnell was very kind to me. I’ve always been a big fan of her work and she was helpful with a bit of advice here, pulling a piece of lint there.

The same goes for Eddie [Edward James Olmos], who was always quick with a joke and a “good game” pat.

CNS: I noticed that you didn’t mention Tricia Helfer. Have you spoken to her since your much publicized break?

RD: No, look, I just think that when you work so closely with someone for any amount of time, there are bound to be wrinkles. You know, I understand some of the things she’s said….I’m not very supportive, etc.

My concern has always been that when she had a disagreement over creative direction, she should’ve come to talk with me. The next thing I know, I’m in a crate headed for NBC’s 30 Rock. Tina Fey?! I’d rather be worn by Alec Baldwin.

CNS: How has it affected your relationships with the other costars?

RD: It’s strained, you know, because we’ve seen so little of each other. The last time I talked with James Callis he was, I don’t know, distant.

CNS: There’s quite a buzz for your upcoming film, I Am My Mother’s Daughter, on the Lifetime network. Tell us about it.

RD: It’s about two women working an Emu farm in southern Louisiana. I’m working with Delta Burke, who plays Deidra Devereaux a recent divorcee who has left behind the big city life of Montgomery, Alabama and returned to her family and roots in Houma.

When the farm is attacked by marauding motorcycle enthusiasts, Deidra’s mother, Tammy May (Kathy Bates), is injured.

The responsibility of the farm, of nursing Tammy May back to health from a painful crossbow wound, and of tending this season’s flock of Emus all fall to Deidra. Of course, all of this is made more difficult by the fact that Emus, over open ground, can sprint up to 30 mph.

If they are all going to survive, she’ll have to come to terms with her past and dig down deep inside for that strength so characteristic of the Devereaux women.

CNS: Yes, it’s very compelling. You haven’t worked with Delta Burke before, was that role a stretch for you?

RD: Have you seen Delta Burke?

CNS: Right. Well, we’ll leave it at that. Thanks again for your time.

RD: Thank you.