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Exploring Complexities in Lifetime’s Upcoming Film, Wife Stalker
Keshia Knight Pulliam takes on the role of Joanna, a determined woman driven to protect her family in Lifetime’s new film, Wife Stalker, set to premiere on March 29. In this suspenseful narrative, Joanna finds her once stable life unraveling when her husband Leo (portrayed by Trai Byers) becomes enamored with Piper (played by Grace Byers), who runs a wellness center and has just arrived in their town.
As Joanna begins to uncover unsettling truths regarding Piper’s past, she becomes increasingly anxious for her family’s safety. In a race against time, Joanna strives to gather evidence that will expose Piper’s true nature before it’s too late. Pulliam, who is 45 and has two children with her husband, fellow actor Brad James, reflects on her personal experiences, having met James on the set of the 2019 Lifetime film Pride and Prejudice: Atlanta.
In this exclusive discussion, Pulliam shares her insights on bringing Joanna to life, particularly in a film inspired by Liv Constantine’s book, “The Wife Stalker.”
Impact of Lifetime on Personal and Professional Life
When asked about her relationship with Lifetime, Pulliam expresses gratitude for the connection she has formed with the network. “Lifetime has definitely become an integral part of our family,” she explains. “Working on various projects from Christmas specials to intense dramas has been an enriching journey. I was pregnant with my son while hosting Married at First Sight: After Party, which made the experience all the more memorable.”
She appreciates the longevity of her collaboration with the network, highlighting the milestones they’ve shared over the years.
Diving Deep into Joanna’s Character
Pulliam was captivated by Joanna’s character upon reading the script. “The plot twists were unlike anything I anticipated,” she admits. “It’s essential to find the voice of the character—understanding her emotions and experiences is key to portraying her authentically.” She values the collaboration with her talented co-stars, Trai and Grace, and the creative guidance from director Elisabeth Röhm, contributing to her overall enjoyment of the project.
Working with Real-Life Couples
With her on-screen husband being played by Trai Byers, who is married to Grace Byers, Pulliam describes the experience as joyous. “I often work alongside my husband, so this dynamic felt familiar,” she notes. “Despite playing characters with complex interactions, we always returned to our true selves after the scenes were filmed. They are wonderful people, making the experience enjoyable both on and off the set.”
Unraveling Layers of the Story
Pulliam believes the film is a compelling narrative that challenges viewers’ perceptions of what constitutes a perfect life or relationship. “It highlights how easy it is to view others’ lives through a filtered lens, thinking everything is idyllic,” she suggests. “The reality is often more complicated, and not everything is as it seems. This layered storytelling truly resonates with me.”
Discussing the character of Piper, Pulliam reflects on how the film presents her complexities, illustrating that the nuances of human behavior and motivations are rarely black and white. “Characters have their own backstories that shape their decisions, and understanding these shades of gray adds depth to the narrative,” she explains.
Gratitude for Personal Life
On a personal note, Pulliam shares that her roles, no matter how challenging, only enhance her appreciation for her own family life. “I cultivate gratitude every day,” she remarks. “Regardless of the character I portray, I always reflect on the blessings that fill my life.” This gratitude fuels her performances and keeps her grounded.
Wife Stalker is set to premiere at 8/7c on March 29, exclusively on Lifetime, showcasing a narrative that promises to captivate audiences with its twists and character complexities.
Source
www.tvinsider.com