Following Her Heart: An Interview with Christie Laing

By Teresa Martin - @Teresa__Martin

Maid Marian returns this week. What can you tell us about her new life in New York and/or flashbacks to the Enchanted Forest? What aspects of Marian are you most excited about fans discovering in this Sunday's episode?

I can tell you how excited I am for Sunday's episode... very! I'm looking forward to seeing how the fans react when they get to know a bit more about Robin and Marian's life in the Enchanted Forest. 


You mentioned on social media that the Winter Finale was special to you.  Can you share what particularly moved you about the episode?

Knowing that Marian was going to 'step out of the way' for Robin and Regina to be together was big. It was great to come from a very different place than we've seen Marian before and explore why she would make this choice. I enjoyed playing the weight of this decision plus anytime I get to work with Lana is special.

When you learned Marian was returning from the past, how did you prepare the mindset for this new situation? 

It's all in the writing. Once has an incredible team that provide us with a fascinating world to explore. My preparation was more of an exploration of the Marian we haven't come to know yet. 


Marian was "Frozen" in the Fall. What techniques were used to obtain the physical transformation?

The magic and talent of the special effects team as well as a bit of food poisoning haha. One of our days of filming I was unbelievably ill with food poisoning so laying down frozen was a huge blessing.


What was it like working with Sean and Raphael?

A joy. Sean is so great with Raphael. He's going to be a wonderful father. They have an incredible connection which I think comes not only from them both being hilarious and adorable but that they both have spent their childhood on film sets. 

You’ve started making Con appearances this year.  What highlights would you like to share about interacting with your fans?

Knowing that there are fans. Ha! Honestly, I was fearful of Cons at first not knowing if there were any Marian fans but I've been pleasantly surprised. Arrow and Once Upon a Time have a very enthusiastic fan base and it's a joy to interact with everyone. I hope to do more!


What do you see as the best advice you were given in navigating the business? 

My biggest piece of advice is something I think I've been learning with age. Trust your instincts, work hard and just go for it. Be kind to yourself. It's a journey to be enjoyed.


Are there projects with which you are working that you would like to share?

My next project is called UnReal and it premiers June 1st on A&E for Lifetime. Our trailer is posted to my Facebook so check it out and I hope everyone tunes in to see a look into the world of reality tv. It's going to be addicting.

Christie on "UnReal"