She’s spent four decades dazzling audiences on Broadway, but television viewers know Tovah Feldshuh best for her unforgettable performances on Law & Order, Crazy Ex-Girlfriend, and The Walking Dead. As the iconic Congresswoman Deanna Monroe on seasons five and six of the post-apocalyptic series, her character's heartbreaking death at the hands of her own son left fans devastated. “I had an incredible time on The Walking Dead,” says Tovah, 68, in an exclusive interview with Closer. “The cast and crew are incredibly dedicated to their craft. It’s no wonder the show was once the top-rated cable series worldwide.”
In April 2021, Tovah released her heartfelt and humorous memoir, Lilyville: Mother, Daughter and Other Roles I’ve Played, published by Hachette Books. “My mother lived to be 103 years old, and her sharp wit and wisdom deserve to be shared,” Tovah explains. “Writing this book wasn’t just about immortalizing my mother—it was about leaving a legacy for future generations. It’s part of the American story, after all: people coming to this country seeking a new life and building something extraordinary.”
Keep reading for Closer’s exclusive Q&A interview with Tovah Feldshuh.
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What Was Your Relationship with Your Mother Like?
Tovah shares a candid story about her relationship with her late mother, who wasn't always forthcoming with affection. “I didn’t hear the words ‘I love you’ from her until I was 18 years old,” she recalls. “It was like something out of Fiddler on the Roof, except we lived in Scarsdale, so it was more of an upper-class version.” Despite the challenges of growing up without overt expressions of love, Tovah found strength in her resilience. “She’d say things like, ‘Of course I love you—who takes you to Hebrew school? Who drives you to singing lessons?’ But her inability to communicate her love in a way I could fully understand caused me a lot of pain early on. Still, I survived—and I’m grateful for every moment we shared.”
What Lesson from Your Mother Still Resonates Today?
One of the most enduring lessons Tovah learned from her mother is the power of choice in shaping one’s happiness. “Happiness isn’t something that just happens to you—it’s a decision you make every single morning when you wake up,” she explains. “Sometimes, you have to actively choose joy even when life feels tough. It’s not always easy, but it’s one of the most empowering things you can do for yourself.”
What Fond Memories Do You Have of Your Mother?
Tovah fondly remembers her mother’s sharp sense of humor and unwavering support for her career. “She came to every single show I ever performed in,” she says with a laugh. “But when it came to The Vagina Monologues, she drew the line. ‘Three women on stage talking about their private parts? Forget it!’ She was hilarious, and I miss her dearly.”
