Currently starring as Dr. Betty Rogers in ABC/City TV’s hit crime drama series Motive, the actress talks to CSL about work, love and her new lifestyle collections.
Tell us about your career path.
Lauren Holly: It has been like a walk through the English countryside. Lovely scenery, rolling meadows, sometimes misty, and some wildflower surprises. Seriously, I’ve been so lucky to just keep walking along. Not a lot of fan-fare, but always a nice, steady pace. Despite my tongue-in-cheek take, this answer really does tell you what it has been like.
What are some of your favourite projects that you have worked on?
In movies it’s a tie. Dragon the Bruce Lee Story because I will never forget the experience of making it. It was good to my soul that needed healing at that time. The Far East locations were both magnificent and spiritual, and the whole cast and crew enjoyed every moment together. Dumb and Dumber was just a blast. I laughed so much. We all rented houseboats on Lake Powell for the two summer holiday long weekends during filming. I was working with the man I loved. In tv, Picket Fences was just about perfect. I loved my part, the scripts were amazing. The show even won awards. The cast and crew became a family. It was hard to let that experience go. I realize that the common denominator in all my faves were the amazing people I worked with. Motive is pretty great that way too.
Tell us about your charitable endeavors.
I have been so fortunate to have had some of the experiences I’ve had. It is not an option to not give back, or pay it forward. My family started a 4 year scholarship called The A Fund, in memory of my brother. It is for a student studying Art or Architecture (his favourite things) at Hobart and William Smith Colleges in Geneva, New York. It is where we grew up, and my father teaches there. Teaming up with Le Chateau for Lauren’s Closet, I became involved with Dress for Success. Everyone has to have the opportunity to present himself or herself the way they want. It is just a helping hand, and we have all needed that. I’ve been involved with many cancer charities, the sad thing is, every one of us has at least one reason in their lives why. It has touched too many, and it just has to stop.
You’ve filmed all over the United States, what has been your favourite location?
All the places have been great, and each unique. Off the top of my head: L.A. – it is a film town, and they just know how to get it done; Charleston – I took amazing walks; Nashville – memories of becoming a working Mom; Aspen – for its beauty.
Favourite city to travel to, why?
London. It’s English, and I know it well.
What is your favourite dish and at which restaurant (worldwide)?
Today? A lemon sugar crepe on the street in Vancouver.
Favourite hotel in the world?
Again, impossible choice. I have been to so many, and so many have been beyond. Venice, Lake Cuomo, Dubai, Cape Town, Hong Kong, Maui. Last week I was at the Ritz Carlton in Montreal. That was very nice, and it has all the bells and whistles, but the Belhurst Castle in Geneva, my hometown, is pretty unique.
Most memorable travel moment.
Landing on top of the Burj Al Arab hotel in Dubai. Same spot that Tiger took that swing!
When I am not working I am…
Hanging with my boys or sitting in a friend’s yard.
3 of the most played songs on my ipod are…
All time? Nirvana’s Nevermind album. Last week? Bailando and Don’t.
Always in my travel bag.
My pillow, my clock, my perfume.
Best Advice
Learn how to be alone.
I can’t live without…
Some sunny days.
Lauren’s Closet is a sophisticated collection encompassing pieces that work with her busy, jet-set lifestyle. From chic daywear, to trendy casualwear, and to eveningwear looks to keep her looking stylish no matter the time or the event. Available at Le Chateau.
Lauren Holly Collection features Christmas stockings, tree skirts, decorative pillows covers, coordinated table runners, and holiday napkins. The ultimate compliment to any Christmas Holiday Celebration.
This article originally appeared in the Winter 2014/15 issue of City Style and Living Magazine.