In 2004, network TV considered airing a pilot that revolved around two female detectives, and lovers, in a post-Katrina, New Orleans landscape. It didn’t get picked up, but the pilot did get leaked onto YouTube and amassed a large queer following. Ten years later, Nancylee Myatt, the creator of “South of Nowhere,” Liz Vassy (“CSI”) and Christina Cox (“Defying Gravity”) reunited with the help of “Nikki and Nora” fans through Indiegogo, giving Nikki and Nora new life through the web series world.

In the web series, Nikki and Nora have left the New Orleans Police Department as detectives and started their own home-based private investigation business, helping New Orleans citizens find the truth during work hours, and remodeling their newly bought 150-year-old home during off hours while exchanging good-humored banter.

We got to chat with Liz Vassey (Nikki) about her chemistry with co-star Christina Cox and creator Nancylee Myatt, as well as the lack of lesbian programming and frogs.

How did it feel to have “Nikki and Nora” come to life as a web series after ten years since its inception?

Honestly, it didn’t even feel like [10 years]. There’s this theory. It’s so odd (laughter). There’s this theory that if you put a frog in water, you slowly turn the heat up, and all of a sudden the frog is like, “Oh my god! The water is boiling!” It happens so so subtly that they don’t even notice. I mean, I have such a co-dependent relationship with Nancylee and with Christina, and with the entire team involved with this. It didn’t even feel like 10 years went by. It’s suddenly like, well, of course, we’re doing a web series because we are ridiculously attached to each other.

What do you mean when you say you have a co-dependent relationship with Christina and Nancylee?

You shoot a pilot usually and you never speak to the people again. I’ve shot series and never spoken to people again. We’re gypsies in this business. You meet each other. You get along famously for two weeks, maybe even two years, then suddenly you’re like, “Oh my god, I haven’t spoke to so in so in like a decade.” And it just hasn’t been that way with me and Christina and with Nancylee.

Also, a lot of stuff has happened personally over the last 10 years, as things do, and things bring you closer together. I look at these two women, and they are fabulous and smart and funny and interesting, and you know, I’m not dumb, so I keep them both in my life.

In a business where the norm is never speaking to your coworkers again, what made Christina and Nancylee different?

It’s funny. I was getting married, buying a house with my soon-to-be husband, and some personal stuff was going on, and moving to New Orleans potentially for five to seven years if this series went was really not on the table.

Then I read the script, and I was like, “Oh, shit.” I really like it. So they [casting] says, “OK, we just want you to come in and do a chemistry read at the network. We’re pretty sure you’ll get this, but you have to do a chemistry read with our choice for Nora.”

I talked to the guy who was going to be my husband. I was like, all right, this is New Orleans, and maybe we’re going to have to be quasi bi-coastal, and we’ll figure out a way to do this. I got through the network test, and I called my agents before I walked in and I was like, “OK, but just so you know, if I don’t like this girl, then I don’t want to do this. I don’t want to be in a show that’s carried by two women if we don’t get along and I’ll let you know, but I’ll leave this test if we don’t get along.” And they were like, “OK.” So I walk in, I literally met Christina for two seconds, called my agent and was like, “I’m totally into doing this! She is great (laughter).” We just got along. I believe in alchemy. Sometimes people just meet and there’s chemistry.

And Nancylee and I, I think we hit it off because she asked me — and this is 2004 mind you, lesbians were more underrepresented in television than they are now — she goes, “Well, how do you feel about playing a lesbian?” And I was like, “I have zero issues with it whatsoever. I just think this is a police officer who is in love with somebody who happens to be a woman, and I’m going to play it that way.” And she told me stories about people coming in trying to play it like a lesbian (laughter), and I was like, “What the hell does that even mean (laughter)? Play it like a lesbian? What, do I play it like a straight? It doesn’t make any sense to me.” So we kind of just hit it off because we’re very much on the same page, you know, politically, and we made each other laugh. We remained close. She’s a very, very dear friend.

What kind of responses have you gotten from your fans?

I’ve been hit with a lot of people who are grateful for “Nikki and Nora,” which I find flattering and sad. I think the fact that I’m being approached by people on the street who are saying, “Finally I get to see me portrayed. I get to see a version of me.” It’s flattering that they like the work, but like politically and morally, it means so much to me because I feel like, not to get too precious about it, but I feel like I get to be a part of something that enables people to see versions of themselves on screen, which means a lot. They should get that. Everybody should get that.

How does it feel to know that your fans brought “Nikki and Nora” to life as a web series through Indiegogo?

I think it’s great. To be perfectly honest, I also think it’s a sign that there’s not enough of this product out there. I think that the lesbian community is so sorely underrepresented in television these days. For people to have to watch a 10-year-old pilot online, I mean, for god’s sake, make some shows (laughter). I applaud “The Fosters.” I applaud ABC Family. I think it’s terrific, and those two actresses are fantastic, and I just think it’s about damn time.

Do we have a “Nikki and Nora” season two to look forward to?

I know that Nancylee is hoping that we’re going to shop it around and see what people think. I’m sure there’s a little parcel of land out there for us somewhere where this can keep on getting produced. We have really gracious fans, really supportive fans as is evident by the fact that they helped us raise the money. I think it will have a life somewhere again, and I think when people get along and genuinely love each other as much as we do as a group, I think people enjoy watching that. You can tell the difference. I tend to think things happen the way they’re supposed to, and I think the show has stuck around in some capacity for 10 years, so I see no reason why it shouldn’t keep going.

To watch “Nikki & Nora,” subscribe to Tello Films.

The post Liz Vassey talks chemistry with ‘Nikki and Nora’ co-star first appeared on Lesbian.com.

BY LESBIAN.COM

The 29th Annual California Women’s Conference (CWC) will stage the Creative Expressions Concert series at Long Beach Convention Center across both nights of this month’s highly anticipated two-day event, May 19-20.

The Creative Expressions Concert series, showcasing performing artists including Mary Lambert, will be streamed live online. The Marriage Equality USA-sanctioned “Love Is Love” PSA set to Jen Foster’s “SHE” will be officially included in the program for Tuesday, May 20.

The program will also include a live Q&A with the multiple award-winning writer/director Nicole Conn, Jane Wishon (Board President of Marriage Equality USA) and some of the cast members from SHE4ME including Mike C. Manning (“Disney”), Gabrielle Christian (“South Of Nowhere“) and Traci Dinwiddie (“Elena Undone“). More names are expected to be announced closer to the event.

The CWC was first launched in 1985 to address the high failure rate among women-owned businesses. Over the years the CWC has played host to a phenomenal list of speakers including His Holiness the Dalai Lama, first lady Michelle Obama, Oprah Winfrey, Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, Duchess of York Sara Ferguson, Barbara Walters, Jane Fonda, Madeline Albright, Condoleeza Rice and Martha Stewart.

This year’s conference will focus on helping attendees discover how to lead a thriving life. Experts will be on hand to discuss how to balance the five essential elements of well being: career life, social life, financial life, physical life and community life.

To purchase tickets to the concert series visit: http://goo.gl/ynTR5k

Speakers for the California Women’s Conference: http://goo.gl/ddYs1U

For tickets to the California Women’s Conference 2014: http://goo.gl/HVp83v

The post SHE4ME ‘Love is Love’ PSA featured at California Women’s Conference first appeared on Lesbian.com.

Nicole Pacent on set of of SHE4ME filming at the Andaz West Hollywood
(Photo by Rodney Bursiel)

BY NATASIA LANGFELDER
Lesbian.com

The talented Nicole Pacent is an actress, singer and model. She’s also one of the few out bisexual women in Hollywood. Her fans know her best from the web series, “Anyone But Me,” in which she portrayed the lovable Aster. Now, she’s back and starring in the SHE4ME PSA for marriage equality alongside actress Gabrielle Christian.

As a member of the LGBT community, Nicole has a vested interest in furthering equality. She sat down with Lesbian.com to discuss the behind-the-scenes fun on the SHE4ME set and her advice to fans on how to navigate the world as a bisexual person.

How did you first hear of the SHE4ME PSA and why did you choose to get involved with this project?

Well, really, I was sort of there when it was being conceived. I heard about it from my manager Sue Melke. She introduced me to Nicole Conn because they had been speaking about it and collaborating.

Nicole wanted to bring me on board as the bride and I just jumped on board. From there, the next thing we had to do was find another bride. It really was a meeting of minds. I decided to do it because it’s a cause I’m very passionate about, obviously, and I like Nicole Conn’s aesthetic.

What was it like working with director Nicole Conn?

Nicole is really clear on what she wants. It’s always great to work with a director who is that way, that way you can give them what they want. It’s refreshing.

Did you know Gabrielle Christian was going to play the other bride?

Sue forwarded me some ideas on who would be playing the second bride. When they settled on Gaby, it was really cool because we had sort of been orbiting in the same circle for so long, but we had never met or worked together. So we finally got to meet. She is such a doll.

Judging from the blooper reel, there was a lot of fun on the set. Can you dish on any of the behind the scenes hijinks?

It was all shot in one day! There were so many moving parts that everything was going on at once. There was no time for anything really crazy like would happen on a longer shoot. But the atmosphere was very jovial the whole time and during the wedding scene people just started doing funny dances. Everyone was just really happy to be there and have fun with each other.

You’ve been out as a bisexual woman for most of your career. How do you think that’s affected your journey?

It has affected it vastly. I can’t imagine how the journey would be different in terms of being more positive or negative thus far. I really don’t know. I’m glad I did it. In terms of the feedback, I’ve never gotten flack for it as far as I know. Everyone has been really accepting both within the gay community and outside of it. It’s really been wonderful.

Part of Aster’s popularity was because I was out to the fan base. I got a lot more projects out of that. I don’t know how things would have been different. It shaped it in ways I’m aware of and not aware of. But I’ve never doubted it and I’ve never second guessed it.

What would tell young fans who may be struggling with their bisexuality?

There are challenges that bisexuals face that you don’t get if you’re straight or gay. People don’t have enough information. And I’ve experienced that in my life. But in terms of my experience with work it hasn’t been a problem so far, which is awesome.

People message me about this all the time and it’s really hard because I wish I had time to respond to all of them. I would say there’s no blanket anecdote in terms of coming out for everybody. It’s different for everyone based on family situations or the country you live in. I can’t say come out and be who you are because it’s not that easy in many environments.

But that said, the more that you are able to be yourself and accept yourself as who you are, not only the happier you’re going to be, but the less you are just going keep hiding for your whole life. Whether they’re a total nerd or a cheerleader or if you have a non-traditional sexuality, if you spend your whole life fighting that, you’ll get tired after a while. It wears on you. It’s generally just a better path to go down to accept who you are and trust you’ll find your way. I really do believe that.

Finding spaces that are more accepting and attending support groups are always really good ideas. Connecting with other people, making sure you don’t feel alone. Those things are paramount. For me, it was so important to be surrounded by the bisexual and gay community even before I came out.

It’s so cliche, I know! But the older I get I have to tell you that’s what it’s all about. The constant struggle of having to let go of the idea that I have to be something other than what I am. It’s not worth it. It’s a losing battle. Just be who you are!

“South of Nowhere” ended in 2008 and many fans were able to dry their tears by moving onto “Anyone But Me.” In fact, one of the YouTube comments on the video is “Aster + Spencer = Perfection.” Do you think Spencer and Aster would have ever hooked up?

That’s so funny! I think from Aster’s point of view, she was so young. Vivian was her second girlfriend, but like first real love. Spencer and Aster could definitely have slept together maybe later in life.

Tell us about your favorite interaction with a fan.

Oh man, there are so many, especially because I’m now friends with some fans as a result. I remember this one instance quite well. A couple years back, before “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” was repealed, there a woman who messaged me and came out to me. She couldn’t tell anyone but me. She wasn’t out to anyone else. But she had seen “Anyone But Me” and she felt like I provided a safe space where she could be herself. Her job was defending our country and she couldn’t come out. That was pretty incredible. I have to say that messages like that where people have come out because of “Anyone But Me” or because I’m out about my sexuality or anything like that is endlessly inspiring to me and sort of unbelievable.

If you could star in a remake of any movie, which movie would you choose?

“Star Wars!” There’s not even a question in my mind. I could die happy if I was in that.

I would want to be Princess Leia 110 percent. She’s such an awesome female character. I grew up playing Princess Leia on the playground. I love that time period, too, episodes 4-6, of course!

In my adult years, I’ve been able to look back at it and appreciate it on so many other levels, including how strong Leia is as a female character. She is tough and she’s sarcastic and in charge and not submissive at all. She’s just feisty and fun with a dry sense of humor. She’s the type of character I would love to play.

Where can your fans find you?

There are a couple things in the works. There’s a short film that I did that’s going to be released mid-April, “It’s a Cold Cold Night.” I play a pretty funny, wacko character my fans will love.

And, if you are in Los Angeles, you can see me in “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” and “All’s Well That Ends Well” at my theater company. Check my Twitter or Facebook, if you want to know more.

The post Nicole Pacent: The SHE4ME bride with the heart of Princess Leia first appeared on Lesbian.com.

Gabrielle Christian shot to fame in 2005 when she took the role of sweet, innocent and gay Spencer Carlin in “South of Nowhere.” As Spencer discovered herself and fell in love with her best friend, Ashley, the LGBT community fell in love with her.

Gabrielle, who goes by Gaby, wrote a love song for her on-screen paramour, Mandy Musgrave, called “Kissing Mandy” and frequently guest stars in queer webseries on Tello. Fans today can find her starring in the marriage equality PSA, SHE4ME alongside actress Nicole Pacent.

How did you hear about SHE4ME and why did you decide to get involved with this PSA?

I’ve been dying to work with Nicole Conn for years, and when I came across Sue Melke [SHE4ME producer] at a screening a few weeks before the SHE4ME shoot it was just perfect timing. I’ve also almost crossed paths with Nicole Pacent a few times and am so grateful we finally connected!

In 2009, you were married to your longtime sweetheart, Justin Mentzer. Has being a married person helped you see the importance of marriage equality?

Being married is more than just two people who love each other; it allows us to do so many other legal things that unmarried people aren’t able to do — like visit our partner’s hospital room, share taxes and insurance, etc. Everyone should have the right to be able to make these choices.

What was the best part of your wedding (besides the groom!)?

All of my family and friends who were by our side.

The SHE4ME PSA packs a ton of emotion into four minutes of screen time. And, because it’s set to music, you had to convey all that emotion without words. How did that affect your acting process?

Well, Jen Foster’s beautiful song was playing the entire time we were shooting so that definitely helped! I’ve watched the music video a few times now and every time I do, I come to tears. [Ed. note — so did everyone at Lesbian.com!]

What was your favorite behind-the-scenes moment during filming?

Becoming friends with Nicole Pacent — she’s such a talent, treasure and wonderful soul.

In the video, we learn that you look amazing in a tux! Would you ever consider rocking pants on the red carpet?

Ha! I think I have worn black slacks before and, heck yeah, I would do it again, Talk about being comfortable. Let’s get rid of the damn heels while we’re at it,

Most of your fan base knows you as Spencer Carlin from “South of Nowhere.” Since that show you’ve gone on to star in “Girltrash” and “3way” and you even have another queer movie in the works. Do you think you get typecast as a queer character or has it just been a natural progression?

I’ve had to be a little more specific in what I have chosen to do, but all of the gay roles I have played have meant something to me. And I think they are all so different in their own beautiful way.

Queer fans tend to be extremely loyal. Do you still hear from “South of Nowhere” fans?

Oh, God yes. They are my rock and what keeps me motivated and confident. I am so grateful to social media for connecting us with one another.

Tell us about the best piece of fan mail that you’ve ever received.

I can’t narrow it down to just one. I’ve had quite a few young girls and boys tell me that “South of Nowhere” saved their life. I don’t think any kind of letter can get better than that.

Who is a better kisser, SHE4ME co-star Nicole Pacent or “South of Nowhere” co-star Mandy Musgrave?

Oh, man — there is no comparison there. They are both amazing. I’m lucky to have been paired up with such beauties, inside and out.

If you could co-star in a movie with any actress, who would you choose?

Cate Blanchett or Kate Winslet. Kate French again? Kates tend to be the bomb.

As a married person, what are you most likely to be doing on a Friday night?

Drinking a huge class of red wine at home whilst watching a movie with dog and hubby.

Sounds like a great night! Watch Gaby in the SHE4ME PSA or catch her on Twitter to stay up-to-date on her upcoming projects.

The post Gaby Christian talks marriage equality, kissing girls, perfect Friday night first appeared on Lesbian.com.