Expert: Crystal - 4/20/2007

Question
Hello Crystal,
I had a couple of questions in which I was hoping that you could help me out with.
First off, I ran across an article today where Jessica Alba was saying how she was not allowed to make eye contact with the cast members while she was on 90210. She said something about them being big stars and acting snotty. I was shocked by this because it doesn't seem like something they would do. Obviously we don't know these actors personally, but I was wondering your take on what she said and about the characters in real life. Have you ever heard anything about them being like this before?

My next question is... was Rebecca Gayheart brought on the show with the intention of being killed off after such a short run? I know that her role as Toni won over a lot of 90210 fans, but I thought that her being killed might have has something to do with Luke Perry wanting to leave the show. Am I close?

Thanks a million for all your help! I really appreciate it!

Answer
Hello Courtney,

I saw that article on Jessica Alba as well (online). However, I first saw it a few years back (again online). Since I do not know anyone involved with 90210 personally or Jessica Alba, I'm forced to take Jessica Alba at her word that her experience on the 90210 set was unpleasant and/or weird due to what she said. However, it's possible that she was kidding and/or her words were not quoted in the right context.

However, remember that the 90210 actors are real people with a full range of emotions to the point where they could have bad days where if a fan was to meet them on one of those days, they may walk away not having a favorable opinion of that actor.

My understanding is that Rebecca Gayheart was indeed brought on as Toni for a limited run and/or be killed off like she was to provide an exit for Luke Perry. Personally, I did not like the Toni character or the way that Dylan was written off the show.

Hope my answer helps you, sorry I couldn't provide more.

Take care,
Crystal