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OnlineHost: Copyright 1997 Oldsmobile; licensed to America Online, Inc.
OnlineHost: Your emcee tonight will be AOLiveMC13 (Lisa) and AOLiveMC5 (Jane)
OnlineHost: Born in Nashville, Tennessee, and brought up in Pasadena, California, petite and charming Lark Voorhies has made a lasting name for herself in the industry and continues to evolve and thrive as an entertainer. Please welcome Lark to AOL Live!
AOLiveMC13: Welcome Lark Voorhies.
VoorhiesLk: Hello and thank you for tuning in to discuss things with me.
AOLiveMC13: Our first question is from Salemite9:
Question: Do you keep in contact with your Saved by the Bell friends?
VoorhiesLk: Yes. We don't see each other as much as we used to understandably, but I do keep in contact with them. I try to send them cards every year.
AOLiveMC13: The next one is from Luvbug773:
Question: HI Lark. i luved u on Saved By the Bell. What made u become a soap opera actress? When did u start your acting career?
VoorhiesLk: Hmm...I started my acting career when I was about 2 but I was too shy and so there was a long pause until about the age of 11. I've been going ever since then. I started doing soaps as a new challenge. If you can do soaps, you can do anything. 100 new pages a day. Need I say more?
AOLiveMC13: This is from Perrrelli:
Question: you were great as wendy on days, why did you leave days of our lives?
VoorhiesLk: To seek new challenges. I went on to do some guest star appearances, to do "What About Your Friends?" which is on HBO, and numerous other things. I wanted to continue to grow.
AOLiveMC13: This one is from BrickPian:
Question: With so much activity in your life right now when do you have time to rest and spend time with friends... you must have a good fitness trainer
VoorhiesLk: LOL. There's very little time. I try to squeeze in my social life during hiatus. Other than that, I do try and stay fit in order to keep healthy during this rigorous schedule. Thanks for noticing.
AOLiveMC13: This one is from Jackmerri:
Question: Were you surprised in the extremely high ratings of "The Last Don"? Jackmerrit
VoorhiesLk: Wow! Actually no. Because Mario Puzo's stories, the 1st Godfather trilogy, had a huge following. This being the closing to that trilogy, I expected all of the authentic followers of Godfather along with the gained audience that has increased over the year to watch the conclusion.
AOLiveMC13: This one is from MnLtKnigh:
Question: Hi, Lark! What was it like working on "Deep Space Nine"?
VoorhiesLk: Mmm...that was really fun. The sets are so incredible. It really puts you into the ship and where you are. They're just massive, and decorative down to the last detail so that was fantasy time for me.
AOLiveMC13: This one is from Chelsealk:
Question: How did you get started into acting and do you have any suggestions on how to get started?
VoorhiesLk: I did the footwork myself. Well, my mother did it. And went around to different agencies and sent regular headshots of me with a 35 mm. camera and got an agent. And I suggest that if you plan on getting into this business, understand that absolute dedication is required because the competition nowadays is massive and fierce. This is a career and it's not a place to just test the water. You have to want it with all your heart and soul.
AOLiveMC13: This one is from Jackmerri:
Question: With so many successful films being released this summer, how do you feel your new film will fare? Jackmerrit
VoorhiesLk: Actually, I think it will do pretty well. Comedies are pretty universal because laughter is something that everyone can relate to. This movie is full of laughs. Loaded with comedians and good material. Let's face it...Bill Bellamy is charming as all heck.
AOLiveMC13: This one is from Pudgy311:
Question: Do you think that acting on "Saved by the Bell" has helped you to become a good drama actress on soaps even though it was a sitcom?
VoorhiesLk: LOL. Probably in the respect that I had done comedy for so long, I was ready to move onto something more dramatic. But I certainly grew into the art of acting with all the practice that I had on Saved By the Bell.
AOLiveMC13: This one is from FDog0121:
Question: What was it like working with Bill Bellamy?
VoorhiesLk: It was great. I didn't know what to expect. I'd seen Bill here and there in the public but working with him, I didn't know if I was going to meet Mr. Bigheaded MTV or what. But it was a pleasant surprise. Bill is actually very sweet, a consummate professional and I've made a very good friend.
AOLiveMC13: This one is from Salemite9:
Question: I heard you have a production company. What projects do you plan to produce?
VoorhiesLk: Actually, I'm close to sealing a deal for my production company. That's not in effect yet, for the record. But the projects I plan to produce will be fun projects. I'd like to be more responsible to my audience and there's a lot in store from drama and comedy. Some projects to make you think
AOLiveMC13: This one is from Metalgal8:
Question: were you ever afraid you couldn`t get serious roles after saved by the bell
VoorhiesLk: No. Because it was so early in my career. It still is. As long as you have the talent to prove that you can do it, there's no reason to fear anything.
AOLiveMC13: This one is from AlexDrama:
Question: Did you always want to be an actor? If not, what was your other choice(s)?
VoorhiesLk: Actually when I was little, I always knew I was going to be successful in something in the Arts. At first, my aspiration was to be a dancer, ballet in particular. But when I began acting, I quickly gave it up and decided that this was my career.
AOLiveMC13: This one is from Normy89:
Question: Hi Lark, I've seen every episode of "Saved by the Bell" at least 20 times. (who hasn't). My question is, did you guys all get along off the set and who was your favorite to work with?
VoorhiesLk: Wow. We had a brother and sister relationship, literally. So we would fight and make up and fight again. LOL. And continue on with the goal that we had at hand, which was completing the show and giving it to you all. I guess Dustin brought the most comic relief on the time on the set with corny jokes at the end of the day which were so gratifying. Those are some of my best memories.
AOLiveMC13: This one is from Jackmerri:
Question: Are you surprised how well Saved By the Bell does in syndication and how many networks have picked it up?
VoorhiesLk: Actually, I am. I'm delightfully pleased because when the show began, it was the little engine that could. No one believed in it, but it was pushed ahead by Brandon Tartikoff who was the head of NBC. So keep watching guys and I hope to bring you projects that will keep you as excited.
AOLiveMC13: This one is from NeoZoicyt:
Question: Who was your favorite actor/actress to work with on your career?
VoorhiesLk: Wow...I can't think of my favorite actor or actress, but I do have to say that the most fun times I've had during my career were at Save by the Bell. It was incredible to grow up on a sitcom in front of everyone. It was one of the best experiences in my life. We had so much fun on the set. I hope that satisfies you. I know that didn't answer your question.
AOLiveMC13: This one is from StALe CHi:
Question: Do you use the internet much? do you have a website?
VoorhiesLk: No, actually I don't have a computer yet. I've just moved and I plan to get one soon, but I don't have one yet. So I can't chat with you guys other than this way.
AOLiveMC13: This one is from Studman G:
Question: I was curious if you are as much into fashion as you were on Saved By The Bell?
VoorhiesLk: LOL. Yeah. I do have a fashion bug, but my style isn't as wacky as some of my characters. I have a more classic taste, things that just kind of never are on a trend. They kind of always stay in style. Kind of boring, but it's me.
AOLiveMC13: This one is form VoodoDoll:
Question: Is "How to be a Playa" your first movie?
VoorhiesLk: Yes, it is. It's my debut feature film, and I'm very excited about it.
AOLiveMC13: This one is from StALe CHi:
Question: whats the next project your working on?
VoorhiesLk: Right now, I'm doing MTV with Bill Bellamy again. I'm on from 2 to 4 throughout the summer. I just landed a recurring role which could become a permanent thing on In the House with LL Cool J and Alfonso Ribeiro. I'll be playing Mercedes, which is Alfonso's love interest.
AOLiveMC13: This one is from ClubMixMa:
Question: What character out of all the characters you have played is most similiar to your real life personality?
VoorhiesLk:
AOLiveMC13: This one is from Pudgy311:
Question: Did you sometimes feel that the story lines on the soap opera's were a bit far fetched sometimes?
VoorhiesLk: Oh, definitely! But that's daytime's job is to bring you the wonderful fantasies and give hope that those type of things can be achieved.
AOLiveMC13: This one is from Jackmerri:
Question: You have seemed to make the transition from Teen Star to an Adult Actress what was your secret to succeeding where so many have failed? Jackmerrit
VoorhiesLk: You have to have a strategy. This is a career and you make plans for it like you would any other career. I think so many fall into the Hollywood element, which is completely separate from the entertainment business. You cannot get involved in drugs, alcohol and partying and expect to have a lasting career. I've planned it out. I've stuck to it and I won't give up, which is why it will work out.
AOLiveMC13: This one is from Normy89:
Question: Lark, you've done a great job with all of your programs. But tell me, what would be your ideal direction now? (movies, a sitcom, drama, etc)
VoorhiesLk: Thank you very much. My ideal direction would be to even the playing field with the storylines. To bring you other human experiences of all cultures. A realistic view of the world that we live in.
AOLiveMC13: This one is from Sxlchocl:
Question: Don't you think movies such as " HOw to be a Player" perpetuate the stereotypes of black women and men?
VoorhiesLk: No because I think that the experiences of black women and men span an entire spectrum. I think this does realistically portray a certain level or demographic of both African American men and women as well as all races. The comedy hopefully will delve a sting, if anyone should take offense.
AOLiveMC13: This one is from King0fMea:
Question: what's it like seeing those old episodes of Saved by the Bell? Do you get embarassed??
VoorhiesLk: Yes I do! LOL I had a little head and big hair.
AOLiveMC13: This one is from CHarris0:
Question: Did you go to the assembly this past weekend in Long Beach?
VoorhiesLk: No, I did not go this past weekend. But I will be going soon.
AOLiveMC13: Here is a nice comment from RChichest:
Question: Hello Lark, Just wanted to comment on your brilliant acting and beauty, I do hope to be like you someday.
VoorhiesLk: Oh my goodness! Thank you so much. That is a unique and interesting comment. I'm silent. Thank you :>
AOLiveMC13: This one is from Kelley320:
Question: Are you married, and if not, are you looking? (Just asking. I'm too young anyway.)
VoorhiesLk: LOL. Yes, I am married and I do suggest that if you're still so young, yes please wait. Marriage has been for me a very beautiful thing that's highly recommended. With a suitable compliment, of course.
AOLiveMC13: This one is from Hero Kid:
Question: Do you like doing television better than movies??
VoorhiesLk: There is different things I like about the both of them. I like the light material of television and then I like the freedom of feature film. However with my first feature film under my belt, I do have a taste for it and would like to aggressively pursue it further.
AOLiveMC13: This one is from VBarjuca:
Question: Who did you like working with on Days and do you keep in touch with them now?
VoorhiesLk: I liked working with everyone on Days. I spent a little more time with Thyme Lewis and Christie Clark because our characters were more involved. We don't necessarily keep in touch but since we're all in the same arena, we do run into each other. And that's always fun.
AOLiveMC13: This one is from VuRbALKiN:
Question: if i have a script and it is good and i wanna like make a movie how do i do it????
VoorhiesLk: Hmm...let's see. The direction I know to go into now would be to first of all get it copywritten to protect your idea. Then go around and do what is called "shopping" to either different film studios or different TV studios. The production companies of either/or. But be persistent, because there's a lot of room for rejection. But don't give up.
AOLiveMC13: This one is from BigPoppaO:
Question: What have you done to help out African American causes so far in you career?
VoorhiesLk: Well, one of the main things that I've done has been to continue to portray respectable characters so that certain stereotypes do not continue to circulate. As far as I can be responsible, as well as contribute to certain charities, awarding events that do give back to the community.
AOLiveMC13: This one is from Grammeria:
Question: Was it really hard to film the graduation show....I ask because I graduated this year and everytime I saw it I almost cried
VoorhiesLk: Yeah, that was hard and we did all cry because along with the emotion that you shared upon your graduation, it was the closure of a family that had been developed and established and we all knew that we were moving on. It would be impossible to be as close as we had been for the previous 4 years.
AOLiveMC13: This one is from ClubMixMa:
Question: Were you surprised that Elizabeth Berkley (from saved by the bell) did Showgirls?
VoorhiesLk: No. And I say that in the sense that Elizabeth has always been very daring, very bold and very brave. The splash she made with her debut film was certainly keeping true to her character. Not that she's anything like a Vegas showgirl, let me clarify that, but that she attacked the role with all the fierce bravery that is Elizabeth Berkley.
AOLiveMC13: This one is from NYR98:
Question: Did it ever bother you that your character on the show was considered an "airhead", or not very smart?
VoorhiesLk: No because there are people who do fit that description. Hopefully, I brought some integrity to that type of personality and made her more fun than she appeared to be stupid.
AOLiveMC13: This one is from Jane5:
Question: Who was your greatest influence growing up?
VoorhiesLk: I would have to say my grandparents because of the qualities they practiced. They represented stability and loyalty, class, intelligence and they were basically solely responsible for my spiritual base, of which I am very thankful.
AOLiveMC13: This one is from MrChason:
Question: Did Bill Bellamy really coin the phrase, "booty call"?
VoorhiesLk: Yes, actually I believe he did. He did a standup act about 2.5 years ago and the show was called Booty Call. Although I believe the phrase was a popular slang term among urbaners, he brought it to an entirely new level.
AOLiveMC13: This one is from Hero Kid:
Question: How does it feel to be a successful black actress in the 90's??
VoorhiesLk: It feels absolutely wonderful and I hope to continue that trend, not only for myself but to showcase to the world the new and brilliant talent of many others like myself.
AOLiveMC13: This one is from Nike2885:
Question: Was it more difficult fiLMING A MOVIE OR A tv SHOW???
VoorhiesLk: It was more difficult filming a movie because movies move a lot faster than television. For example, it takes an entire week to shoot an episode of a TV sitcom, while movies and soap move on day to day with brand new material. So with TV you have a longer period of time to memorize your lines.
AOLiveMC13: This one is from Lynxilver:
Question: Did you take a lot of rejection, becoming an actress?
VoorhiesLk: Yeah, that is a pre-requisite in this industry. Basically, until you reach a "certain level", you are merely a product with which production companies display or bring to life their vision. Which is why I plan to be more in control of my own projects, so I will see those days no more.
AOLiveMC13: This one is from Honey1644:
Question: what does your family think of your success?
VoorhiesLk: Actually, they're very very happy and very proud, which is good. I didn't get into this industry through nepotism. I am the first to be involved in the entertainment world and so it's very exciting to bring the success of my life for them to share.
AOLiveMC13: This one is from Verge9
Question: what type of music do you enjoy??
VoorhiesLk: I enjoy all types from R&B to certain styles of rap to classical, jazz, country. Actually it's interesting that you asked me a question about music because I sing and have a band that I perform with called "Third Degree". On August 5th, we will be performing on Borders at LaCienega. I'm sorry, that is August 15th.
AOLiveMC13: This is from Voice 4Hy:
Question: What is the origin of your name?
VoorhiesLk: My mother saw a movie when she was 14 years old. I forget the name of the movie, but one of the lead characters was named Lark. She decided then she would name me and she stuck to it, and here I am.
AOLiveMC13: This one is from TODDinAZ:
Question: What type of acting do you see yourself gearing towards? Do you think you would like to continue with daytime television or maybe stage acting?
VoorhiesLk: I think right now I'm gearing myself more towards feature films for the dramatic aspect. I look forward to doing some action films as well For TV, I see myself gearing more towards comedy but daytime has always been a wonderful base for me, so who knows.
AOLiveMC13: Here is our last question for tonight from Penny II:
Question: How was it like working with Boyz II Men on their video On Bended Knee?
VoorhiesLk: It was great! We shot the video on location in New Orleans and it was great. It was a little humid, but it was wonderful meeting those guys with the angelic voices. Oh my goodness. And the food was really good!
AOLiveMC13: Thank you for taking the time out to be with us. Do you have any last words for us?
VoorhiesLk: Yes. Thank you for taking the time to sit and chat with me. I appreciate it. I am excited by the response. Thank you ever so much for supporting my career, for following it and hopefully I'll give you a reason to continue. Goodnight :>
AOLiveMC13: Thank you again and of course to our great audience for their great questions. Aloha.
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