Digest

Cleopatra Coleman, who plays V. Stiviano in the FX series "Clip," discusses her approach to the role, including her research on the real V. Stiviano and her understanding of the character's motivations. Jay Alfonz Nicholson, who plays Chris Paul, shares his perspective on the pressure the Clippers players faced in the wake of the Donald Sterling racism scandal and how he related to Chris Paul's leadership and desire to win. Both actors discuss the emotional impact of filming the scene where the Clippers team learns about the tape of Donald Sterling's racist remarks and the intense pressure they felt to react. They also share their experiences working with Ed O'Neill, who plays Donald Sterling, and Jackie Weaver, who plays Shelly Sterling. The episode concludes with a lightning round where the actors answer fun questions about their experiences on the show.

Outlines

00:00:00

Introduction

This Chapter introduces the Let's Talk Clip podcast, which follows along and reacts to the FX series Clip. The episode focuses on the third episode titled "Let the Games Begin." The episode features Cleopatra Coleman, who plays V. Stiviano, and Jay Alfonz Nicholson, who plays Chris Paul, discussing their experiences on the show.

00:01:08

Cleopatra Coleman's Perspective on V. Stiviano

This Chapter delves into Cleopatra Coleman's approach to playing V. Stiviano. She discusses her research on the real V. Stiviano, her understanding of the character's motivations, and her compassion for her. She also shares her experience playing a real person for the first time and how she used real-life references to inform her performance.

00:02:41

Jay Alfonz Nicholson's Perspective on Chris Paul

This Chapter focuses on Jay Alfonz Nicholson's experience playing Chris Paul. He discusses his understanding of the pressure the Clippers players faced in the wake of the Donald Sterling racism scandal and how he related to Chris Paul's leadership and desire to win. He also shares his perspective on the emotional impact of filming the scene where the Clippers team learns about the tape of Donald Sterling's racist remarks.

00:04:51

The Impact of the Tape's Release

This Chapter explores the impact of the tape's release on the characters in the show. Cleopatra Coleman discusses how V. Stiviano's aspirations for fame and attention are challenged by the scandal, while Jay Alfonz Nicholson reflects on the internal and external pressures faced by the Clippers players. They both discuss the emotional weight of the scene where the team learns about the tape and the decisions they are forced to make.

Keywords

Q&A

• How did Cleopatra Coleman approach playing V. Stiviano in the FX series "Clip?"

  Cleopatra Coleman did extensive research on the real V. Stiviano, focusing on her charisma and the way she was often ignored by others. She also drew inspiration from real-life imagery and videos of Stiviano to inform her performance, including her voice, makeup, and style.

• What was the emotional impact of filming the scene where the Clippers team learns about the tape of Donald Sterling's racist remarks?

  Both Cleopatra Coleman and Jay Alfonz Nicholson described the scene as emotionally powerful and intense. They felt the weight of the situation and the real-life truths it represented. Jay Alfonz Nicholson, who plays Chris Paul, shared that he felt a sense of vulnerability and the need to stand up for what was right, while Cleopatra Coleman, who plays V. Stiviano, highlighted the character's internal conflict and lack of power in the situation.

• What was it like for the actors to work with Ed O'Neill, who plays Donald Sterling?

  Cleopatra Coleman described Ed O'Neill as a wonderful person and shared that they quickly developed a comfortable rapport, even though their characters were often at odds. She appreciated his support and the stories he shared. Jay Alfonz Nicholson also acknowledged that Ed O'Neill was completely different from the character he portrayed, highlighting the professionalism of the actors involved.

• What was the significance of the scene where V. Stiviano enters the Clippers locker room?

  The scene highlights V. Stiviano's complicated position as someone involved with Donald Sterling but not fully aligned with his views. It also underscores the power dynamics at play and the uncomfortable situation she finds herself in. The scene also reveals Donald Sterling's lack of respect for the players and his entitlement to spaces that are considered sacred to them.

• How did the actors feel about the external pressure the Clippers players faced in the wake of the Donald Sterling scandal?

  Both actors acknowledged the immense pressure the players faced, both internally and externally. They discussed the constant barrage of media attention, social media scrutiny, and the expectations placed on them to respond to the situation. They also highlighted the players' need to balance their personal lives and careers with the demands of the scandal.

• What was the overall impact of the Donald Sterling scandal on the Clippers team?

  The scandal had a profound impact on the Clippers team, forcing them to confront issues of racism and power dynamics within the organization. It also led to a period of uncertainty and division, as players grappled with their own feelings and the pressure to respond. The scandal ultimately led to Sterling being forced to sell the team, marking a turning point in the Clippers' history.

• What are some of the key themes explored in the FX series "Clip?"

  The series explores themes of racism, power dynamics, celebrity culture, and the complexities of human relationships. It also examines the impact of scandal on individuals and institutions, and the challenges of navigating difficult situations while maintaining one's integrity.

• What is the significance of the scene where V. Stiviano rolls out on roller skates in front of the paparazzi?

  The scene is both humorous and poignant, highlighting V. Stiviano's embrace of fame and her willingness to play the game. It also underscores the absurdity of the paparazzi culture and the lengths to which people will go for attention. The scene also foreshadows the challenges V. Stiviano will face as she navigates the world of celebrity and public scrutiny.

• What is the significance of the scene where V. Stiviano has a confrontation with Deja?

  The scene highlights the growing divide between V. Stiviano and Deja, as Deja tries to make V. Stiviano understand the gravity of the situation and the impact of Donald Sterling's racist remarks. The scene also underscores V. Stiviano's focus on her own survival and her unwillingness to fully engage with the complexities of the situation.

Show Notes