Billie Lourd Reflects on Family Ties and New Opportunities in Hulu’s *Mid-Century Modern*
Working on a film or television project often evokes feelings akin to those found within a family setting, and for Billie Lourd, this sentiment resonates powerfully as she embarks on her latest project with Hulu’s *Mid-Century Modern*. This comedy series marks a reunion with her former collaborators Ryan Murphy, known for his work on *Scream Queens* and *American Horror Story*, who serves as the executive producer. Lourd also shares a special bond with the series creators, Max Mutchnick and David Kohan, who previously welcomed her in their *Will & Grace* reboot, where she played Fiona, the granddaughter of her late grandmother, the iconic Debbie Reynolds.
In a delightful twist of familial connections, Lourd is the goddaughter of renowned publicist Simon Halls, husband to *Mid-Century Modern* star Matt Bomer. It was Bomer who initially reached out to her to join the ensemble cast, which features notable talents like Nathan Lane, Nathan Lee Graham, and the late Linda Lavin. Lourd portrays the long-estranged daughter of Bomer’s character Jerry, a gay flight attendant, further emphasizing the series’ exploration of diverse family dynamics.
“I was in Chicago doing a movie and he called me, this guy standing right here in this beautiful suit,” Lourd shared with The Hollywood Reporter at the DGA Theater’s red carpet event. “He actually texted me and then called me to pitch the whole thing but I was, like, ‘No need to pitch. I’m there and getting on a plane now.'”
Lourd expressed her excitement about working alongside Bomer, noting that she has known him since childhood. “I’ve been around him since I was 10 years old because of my godfather [Simon],” she said. “Getting to work with Matt was just so incredible because I am so inspired by him as an actor. I think he’s so talented and so hot. Also, he’s a real artist.”
Lourd conveyed her eagerness for audiences to experience Bomer’s comedic talents. “I haven’t really gotten to see him be funny on TV, and he’s so funny in real life,” she noted. She reminisced about the joyful moments on set, praising Bomer’s dedication to his craft and his ability to create a comfort level in a high-pressure environment, especially with a live audience involved. “There’s a live audience and a whole thing. I’ve done it before on *Will & Grace* one time, but it can still be a bit daunting.”
For Lourd, returning to television signifies a refreshing chapter after her recent focus on independent films. Having recently starred alongside Pamela Anderson in Gia Coppola’s *The Last Showgirl*, she expressed her joy in being busy with three indie projects. “I’m on my indie grind right now which I’ve been loving,” she said enthusiastically, referencing her work in two rom-coms—*That Friend* in Palm Springs and *Love Language* in Chicago—as well as a unique horror film titled *Adulthood* filmed in Ottawa, Canada.
Despite her busy schedule, Lourd advocates for more film productions in Los Angeles, motivated by the crisis of declining local filmmaking. “I’m really into that Stay in L.A. campaign,” she said, alluding to the need for better tax incentives to revitalize Hollywood. “It’s so sad because this is the heart of Hollywood and we don’t have as many productions anymore.”
Looking ahead, Lourd is set to lend her voice to the upcoming animated *Smurfs* film and harbors hopes of sharing the spotlight with co-star Rihanna. “I’m super excited about that and anywhere Rihanna goes, I’m there. If I could just stand next to her at some point that would be great.”
Additionally, she hinted at a mysterious project with Ryan Murphy, stating she wishes to incorporate music into her future endeavors. “What I really want to do is sing. Tell the people.” And now, they’ve been informed.
For more insight on Billie Lourd’s exciting journey and her dynamic role in *Mid-Century Modern*, check out the full article on Hollywood Reporter.