1 week Ago By Justin Ravitz
Jennifer Beals knows a thing or two about the Zeitgeist. The actress, 61, became a pop culture icon in 1983 as Alex, the striving, legwarmer-clad protagonist of Flashdance . In 2004, she struck gold again in a totally different vein playing Bette Porter in the ensemble cast of The L Word , Showtime’s groundbreaking and fan-beloved lesbian drama.
It was deep-hearted nostalgia for the latter experience that inspired a creative foray into book publishing: The L Word: A Photographic Journal, which hit shelves April 8. “It’s a way to hold onto a moment in time that was incredibly special,” the star exclusively tells Us Weekly , calling the book “a love letter to the cast, the crew, and the fans who made The L Word what it was. It’s about remembering the joy and connection we all felt.
” Beals spoke to Us about the book, her most beloved Flashdance memories and her (surprise!) status as a Swiftie. Congrats on the book! What inspired it? Well, I’ve been a photographer since I was 16, and I documented everything from the first rehearsal to the last day of shooting The L Word. It started as a personal gift for the cast and crew, but then I realized fans would love it, too.
Speaking of The L Word, any chance of another revival? Whether the show continues or not, these stories need to be told. I’ve started a company, Runamok, to create new projects in the same vein. We’re excited to find new stories.
Related: Jenny Lewis Has 'No Regrets' About Leaving Acting Behind to Pursue Music What would you want for Bette if the show returned? I’d love to see her expand into her purpose. I can’t see her just playing pickleball! You also wrapped a new film last fall, Hello Out There. It’s described as an alien dramedy? Somebody needs to rewrite that logline! It’s not about aliens — it’s about imagining what’s beyond what we think we know, especially in grief.
You’ve always been interested in big questions, haven’t you? Since I was 5! I wanted to understand God. That led to tarot cards at 7, much to my mother’s chagrin. I meditate daily.
Back in December, you attended one of Taylor Swift’s very last Eras Tour shows in Vancouver. Were you always a Swiftie? I’m a bit of a hermit, so I almost didn’t go! But I’m so glad I did. It was an extraordinary experience.
Taylor gave everything of herself, and it was a tone of acceptance and joy. Related: OITNB's Natasha Lyonne and Danielle Brooks Reunite With a Red Carpet Hug What’s your favorite Taylor song? Do you have one? Oh my God, no, I don’t! Her catalog is so expansive; there’s a song for every mood. Let’s talk Flashdance.
What does that legacy mean to you? I’m just grateful to have worked with [director] Adrian Lyne and played a character striving for sovereignty. That’s what resonated with people. I never expected it to have such a lasting impact.
Hearing stories from fans is truly moving. Related: ‘80s Stars: Where Are They Now? Any standout behind-the-scenes memories? I remember being on my little bike riding around the lot at Paramount, and just taking pictures of things that meant something to me that would mean nothing to anybody else. Thank You! You have successfully subscribed.
By signing up, I agree to the Terms and Privacy Policy and to receive emails from Us Weekly Check our latest news in Google News Check our latest news in Apple News Did you keep anything from the set? I have the sweatshirt and the band jacket. Someone stole my signed script, though! If you see it on eBay, it’s contraband. What do you miss most about the ‘80s? The silence! No cell phones.
But I don’t really miss the ‘80s. The L Word: A Photographic Journal is available for purchase now..
