Alicia Witt knows when a fan is about to bring up one of her beloved Christmas movies. She’s starred in eight of them for the Hallmark Channel and even penned the story and composed the music for the 2020 hit Christmas Tree Lane. At 46, Alicia exclusively chats with Closer Weekly, available on newsstands now, about how these films have become a cherished part of people's holiday traditions.
"Year-round, people approach me with this unmistakable sparkle in their eyes, ready to talk about one of my Christmas movies," Alicia shares. "It's truly heartwarming to be a part of families' holiday celebrations. These films bring joy to so many, and that's something I hold dear."
Spreading Joy Through Music and Words
Alicia is not only an actress but also a talented singer-songwriter and author. Recently, she released Small Changes: A Rules-Free Guide to Add More Plant-Based Foods, Peace & Power to Your Life, where she dives into her journey of finding balance, eating healthier, and embracing joy.
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"If my book can inspire even one person to make a positive change in their life, that would be the greatest gift I could ever receive," she says with heartfelt sincerity.
From Child Star to Hollywood Icon
How did your acting career begin as a child in the iconic 1984 film Dune?
At just 5 years old, Alicia appeared on a show called That’s Incredible!, which caught the attention of the casting director for Dune. They were searching for a child with exceptional verbal skills to play Alia, a young girl born with generations of knowledge. This led Alicia to meet the legendary director, David Lynch, in New York.
What was it like working on such a monumental project?
"I was only 7 years old at the time, and it was an eight-and-a-half-month shoot. I had no idea it was the biggest-budget movie ever made. To me, it was just another day on set. It wasn’t until years later, working on other films, that I realized how extraordinary that experience was," Alicia recalls.
Life on the Set of Cybill
What stands out most from your time playing Cybill Shepherd’s daughter on Cybill?
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"I remember the moment Cybill followed me out to my car and told me I got the part. It was my fifth audition, and I will never forget her voice behind me. She gave me the biggest hug, and I knew my life was about to change in every possible way," Alicia fondly remembers.
Overcoming Challenges and Finding Balance
In your book Small Changes, you discuss how your body was scrutinized early in your career and the impact it had on you. Tell us more about that.
Growing up, Alicia faced a world where it was common—and even considered helpful—to tell young actresses they needed to lose weight. "It’s not flattering when you go on auditions, and they suggest covering up your stomach or losing weight. I was never overweight, but the constant emphasis on my size led to an unhealthy relationship with food," she explains.
How did this affect you emotionally?
"The stress of building my career made me turn to food as a coping mechanism. I would create these rigid rules in my head, telling myself I was doing something wrong when I ate more than I thought I should. Then I’d promise never to do it again. But you find yourself doing it again," Alicia shares openly.
How did you overcome this struggle?
"I realized that beating myself up wasn’t helping me. So, I let go of all the rules. I don’t own a scale anymore, and I don’t measure my portions. Now, I focus on how certain foods make my body feel," Alicia says with confidence.
The Power of a Plant-Based Lifestyle
How has adopting a mostly plant-based diet improved your life?
"I discovered that I thrive on a 99.5 percent plant-based diet. It’s like my body just works better this way. Maintaining my ideal weight feels effortless, my energy levels are higher, and my skin looks healthier. It’s all about nourishing my body from the inside out," Alicia explains with enthusiasm.
Your new album, The Conduit, is out. What inspired it?
"Some people come into our lives and change us forever, whether they’re meant to stay or not. Each of the 11 tracks on this album represents a significant connection—some fleeting, others lasting—but all transformative," Alicia says with passion.
Home Sweet Home
Where do you call home now?
"Nashville. I’ve been visiting for five years, and finally decided to make the move. It all started in 2016 when I worked on the show Nashville. Since then, I’ve found myself returning every few months. Eventually, I realized I didn’t need to keep going back to L.A. when all I wanted was to return to Nashville," Alicia explains.
What draws you to Nashville?
"I love waking up in the morning feeling peaceful. I’m close to some of my dearest friends, and there’s a real sense of community here. Walking down the street, I know most of my neighbors—it’s warm and inviting. In L.A., that wasn’t the case. Plus, the music scene here is incredible," Alicia shares.
Looking to the Future
What’s next for your career?
"I’m preparing to direct my first movie. Last summer, I shadowed on a Christmas movie starring Reba McEntire, which was an invaluable experience. It’s a strange dynamic because you’re essentially following the director around like a detective," Alicia jokes.
What was it like working with Reba?
"Reba is everything you’d hope for and more. She’s incredibly kind to everyone, making people feel great even when she’s clearly exhausted. She has this incredible energy about her, and I think she’s more talented as an actor than most people realize," Alicia gushes.
Do you have a personal motto?
"I’ve always loved this Picasso quote: ‘
