With Gina Tognoni
(Phyllis, Y&R)
■ What was your reaction when you learned that Billy and Phyllis would be breaking up? “My reaction to learning that Billy and Phyllis were breaking up was shock! I mean, why mess with something that works, right? I imagine our ‘Philly’ fans might be saying that (who, by the way, have been so supportive of us!). However, at the end of the day, it’s Genoa City and anything can happen; it’s never just normal [laughs]!”
What did you and Jason Thompson (Billy) talk about when it came to the circumstances that torpedo your characters’ relationship? “I really believe that Jason and I enjoy working with each other because we share a pure respect for how we approach the work. It’s a gift being able to rely on one another to bring commitment every day, no matter what story we are tossed into together.”
What was your favorite part about the breakup scene? “That I get to be really mean and ugly, and Jason still talks to me! Although Billy might not, though, since he is not too happy with Phyllis right now. Their breakup is still fresh and it was very ugly.”
What would’ve been your advice to Phyllis after her affair with
Nick? “I think Gina’s advice to Phyllis would’ve been, ‘Yes, save yourself and keep your heart and conscience clean.’ I would have told her to tell Billy right away about the onenighter with Nick! But unfortunately, Phyllis has a mind of her own and would never listen to that advice.”
Are you sad that this could mean working less with Jason? “While Billy and Phyllis may have broken up, the drama between the two of them is just beginning. Billy and Phyllis, as well as Gina and Jason, will be in each other’s orbits, just under different circumstances.”
Given Billy’s reckless behavior with gambling, and Phyllis always standing by him, is he being just a little too harsh about her sleeping with Nick? “Phyllis’s actions cannot be compared to Billy’s gambling because it’s an addiction that has consumed him for so long. Phyllis is heartbroken that she hurt Billy and that he was humiliated when Phyllis’s indiscretion with Nick was revealed.”
Has their romp ignited any old feelings toward Nick? “Phyllis and Nick share a lot of history and a lot of chemistry! It’s this chemistry that led to their night together. However, right now Phyllis is owning her mistake but will not give up on gaining Billy’s forgiveness. Also, Nick is a little busy right now doing his own damage control with Sharon.”