Amanda Seyfried Reveals Why Her Joni Mitchell Cover Wasn’t an Audition for a Biopic Role

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Amanda Seyfried‘s decision to perform a verse from Joni Mitchell’s 1971 classic “California” on “The Tonight Show With Jimmy Fallon,” including playing the dulcimer herself, was quite courageous. This wasn’t just due to the challenging high note in the chorus, but also because Joni Mitchell covers are not for the faint-hearted vocalists.

Social media enthusiastically joined the conversation, encouraging Amanda Seyfried for the role of a younger Mitchell in Cameron Crowe’s upcoming biography film.

Despite claims suggesting that Seyfried’s viral “Tonight Show” moment was an intentional bid to secure the role, she clarifies otherwise. “It wasn’t an audition,” she explains on the “Just for EbMaster” podcast. “In fact, I didn’t even think about it that way at the time, which is amusing. What I understand about that project is that I’m simply too old to play young Joni.”

Contrary to speculation, Seyfried maintains her “Tonight Show” moment wasn’t an attempt to land the role. She clarifies on the “Just for EbMaster” podcast, “It was not a tryout. In truth, I never considered that possibility until now, which is ironic. As far as I know, I’m past my prime for playing young Joni in that project.

In her latest venture, Seyfried is featured in “Long Bright River,” a Peacock series based on Liz Moore’s critically acclaimed novel of the same title. Seyfried portrays Mickey Fitzpatrick, a police officer patrolling the gritty Kensington district of Philadelphia. As a string of murders targeting sex workers in the area escalates, Mickey’s sister, Casey (played by Ashleigh Cummings), who is battling addiction and homelessness as a street-based sex worker, mysteriously disappears.

Experiencing ‘Long Bright River’ can be a challenging viewing process, as it delves into the harsh realities of street life, the opioid epidemic, alcoholism, exploitation, family mysteries, and corrupt law enforcement. After filming some particularly intense scenes, Seyfried admitted to unwinding during her commutes between Brooklyn sets and her home in the Catskills, shared with husband Thomas Sadoski and their two children.

According to Seyfried, my colleague and I would travel to work together, then head home together afterwards. It seems we had a lot of laughter and shared many stories during these journeys. So when tough times came, such as playing intense emotional scenes, we wouldn’t bring those feelings back with us unconsciously. It wasn’t a conscious decision like ‘Let’s avoid discussing that.’ Instead, we might crank up Taylor Swift quite loudly on some days to pass the time, given the commute could be as long as 90 minutes.

Their go-to Swift albums? “The Tortured Poets Department” and “Midnights.”

https://playlist.megaphone.fm/

I had a chat with Seyfried via Zoom, which you can hear in its entirety by tuning into “Just for EbMaster” or any platform where you get your regular podcasts.

What was it like seeing yourself in a cop uniform for the first time?

A few weeks prior to filming, I visited the production office with Claire Parkinson, who incidentally served as the costume designer for “The Dropout.” It’s quite remarkable, isn’t it? Well, when we last met, I was wearing a turtleneck. But here I was, gazing at myself in a mirror donning a factory uniform, just like the ones they produce. I remember thinking, “I understand now. I can pull this off. I feel completely at ease in this uniform.” Perhaps it was because I had mentally prepared myself, or maybe it was due to my experience shadowing police officers before filming started, or perhaps it was simply having the room and time to visualize myself there.

What kind of research did you do into addiction?

Through personal encounters and connections, I’ve accumulated a wealth of life experiences related to substance abuse. Many individuals I know have struggled with substance use, some of whom have overdosed, others who are still alive after an overdose, and yet more who have cycled in and out of rehab or are now recovered. Growing up, I was surrounded by an addict, as well as two close companions who faced similar challenges. Everyone has their unique tales to tell… Additionally, I’ve had the privilege of conversing with numerous people, particularly Sarah Laurel, who runs Savage Sisters Recovery. This organization is based in Kensington and provides essential services like wound care and Narcan distribution daily. Remarkably, Sarah herself was an addict, battling addiction and overdosing multiple times. She courageously shares her story while focusing on saving lives through her recovery efforts.

Did your perspective on addiction change?

Indeed. I’ve been in contact with someone who’s currently grappling with a difficult situation – addiction. In the past, I might have thought that it was inevitable they would overdose or face other negative consequences. However, I now realize that such thoughts are not helpful. Instead of giving up on them, we should keep hope alive. This individual hasn’t reached their lowest point yet, but there’s a chance they might in the future. It could be in five years, ten, or even fifteen. But if they do, they might find the strength to overcome this struggle and even flourish. They may seek help at just the right moment and recover. It’s amazing how resilient people can be, rising again and again from hardship.

That’s beautiful.

It’s fantastic that I’ve picked up a lot from this program. While I usually find myself learning during my work, it’s intriguing to ponder the limited opportunities we often provide for individuals to grow and improve themselves.

Taking a turn here, when is the “Jennifer’s Body” sequel happening?

Don’t know.

But you want it to happen, right?

Last year, I had a conversation with one of the producers regarding this matter. He asked if I would be interested, to which I responded affirmatively.

And bring Megan Fox back.

Absolutely, let me clarify. I’m quite certain she’s going to give birth soon, and if our plans align, I wouldn’t proceed without her involvement.

“The Dropout” Season 2. When do you start filming?

Completely ruled out. It seems too much time has elapsed. Furthermore, I believe we should simply allow Elizabeth Holmes to continue being Elizabeth Holmes, whatever path her life takes. I am confident she harbors grand ambitions. One cannot suppress such a dynamic individual.

What about Mickey’s future?

I’m confident that if the situation requires it, it would prove to be an excellent chance, one I wouldn’t hesitate to seize, given Mickey’s intricate nature. There’s always something new to tackle with him, keeping the challenges coming my way.

This interview has been edited and condensed.

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2025-03-13 23:17