Kristen Johnston Is Still Answering for One Day on 'Sex and the City'

Kristen Johnston, known for her bold and often larger-than-life performances, is reflecting on a pivotal moment in her career during an interview with Newsweek’s Parting Shot Podcast. The discussion centers around her early days in television, particularly her role on Third Rock from the Sun, a show that launched her into the spotlight and shaped her approach to acting. The conversation touches on her experiences working with John Lithgow, her evolving understanding of her craft, and the impact of her character, Lexi Featherston, on pop culture. Johnston recalls auditioning for Third Rock from the Sun shortly after watching Lithgow’s intense performance in the thriller Cliffhanger. The fear she felt upon meeting him, believing he might be a “monster”, was quickly dispelled by his kindness and humor. The experience, she says, was instrumental in shaping her confidence as an actor. She credits the role with helping her embrace the kind of unconventional, vibrant characters that have become hallmarks of her career. At the time, the show’s depiction of gender fluidity, where characters on the alien planet lacked defined genders, was ahead of its time, and Johnston acknowledges that, had the series aired today, a transgender actor might have been considered for the role. Her portrayal of Lexi Featherston on Sex and the City remains one of the most iconic moments of her career. The character, a flamboyant party guest, left a lasting impression on audiences, becoming a symbol of camp and self-expression. Johnston refers to Lexi as a defining chapter in her life, noting that her career can be divided into periods before and after the role. She describes the character as embodying the “blousy fabulousness” of a woman unafraid to be herself, a trait she continues to explore in her work. In addition to discussing her past roles, Johnston reflects on her collaboration with co-star Leanne Morgan on the new series Leanne. The pair began working together with minimal experience in sitcoms, but Johnston found that her background in theater gave her an edge. She explains that the format of a sitcom, essentially a weekly one-act play, felt familiar, allowing her to adapt quickly. However, the process of helping Leanne Morgan navigate the complexities of the camera and the demands of the role was both challenging and rewarding. Over time, their dynamic evolved into a genuine sister-like bond, which she believes contributed significantly to the authenticity of their on-screen relationship. The interview also delves into the balance Johnston maintains between delivering comedic punchlines and supporting the lead character. She likens the process to a game of tennis, where timing and precision are key. While she embraces the opportunity to shine, she emphasizes the importance of letting the story, and the other actors, take center stage. This philosophy has guided her through many roles, including those that require a blend of humor and emotional depth. As the conversation unfolds, Johnston offers insight into the broader landscape of acting and representation in Hollywood. She acknowledges that while the industry has changed since her early days, the core principles of storytelling and character exploration remain constant. Her journey, from the quirky, gender-fluid aliens of Third Rock to the bold, unapologetic characters she continues to portray, reflects a career built on embracing complexity and pushing boundaries. Her reflections serve as a testament to the enduring power of authentic, fearless performances.