Comedy is no laughing matter to Newhart alum Julia Duffy. "To me, comedy is a sacred art form, almost like a religion," the 73-year-old actress exclusively shares with Closer. "Getting it right is crucial. When we're crafting jokes, we take it incredibly seriously. It's about precision and timing, and that's what makes it so rewarding."
Julia Duffy's Role in Night Court
Julia is shining brightly on NBC's hit sitcom Night Court, where she reprises her role as Susan, a character whose son's mysterious paternity throws a curveball into Judge Abby Stone's private life, portrayed by Melissa Rauch. "This season, the show is about to take some wild turns," Julia exclaims with delight. "It's an absolute blast, and I've had the privilege of sharing some incredible scenes with Melissa. The chemistry between us is electrifying, and it’s a joy to be a part of such a talented ensemble."
Did Acting Always Call to You?
"Absolutely," Julia reflects. "As a child, I was mesmerized by the magic of television. I'd sit so close to the screen, imagining myself in those roles. My big break came at 11 when I started drama lessons. I remember taking the bus downtown by myself to the MacPhail Center for the Arts in Minneapolis. That was the beginning of a lifelong journey. From there, I immersed myself in community theater, which was abundant in Minneapolis, and it shaped me into the performer I am today."
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Was Comedy Always Your Focus?
"Not at all. My roots are in theater, where the emphasis is on drama. Acting school doesn't really prepare you for comedy. It's an art form that evolves through experience and exposure to the greats."
Lessons from Newhart
"Being on Newhart for seven seasons was transformative," Julia recalls fondly. "I was surrounded by legends who had connections to the vaudevillians of the past, like Bert Lahr from The Wizard of Oz. The history of comedy became a passion of mine. Listening to stories from Bob Newhart, Tom Poston, and even Don Rickles, who frequented our set, was like attending a masterclass. Our approach might have seemed undisciplined at times, but there was a method to our madness. We were relentless in our pursuit of the perfect joke."
A Tribute to Bob Newhart
"Every moment with Bob was precious. That show was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I cherished my role, the cast—it felt like family. During that time, I had children, one of whom almost made an unplanned appearance on set! Bob was a family man, and that spirit permeated the entire production. It was more than a show; it was a family every day."
Exploring Susan's Character in Night Court
"In season two's finale, I introduced a bombshell that sent shockwaves through the cast. Susan, my character, was quite the free spirit back in the day. She dated someone at night court and never knew who Jake's father was. This revelation creates chaos for Abby and Jake, adding layers of complexity to the storyline."
Behind the Scenes of Night Court
"The set of Night Court is a mix of professionalism and laid-back camaraderie. Everyone is incredibly welcoming. Reconnecting with Wendie Malick was a delight, but the real magic happened with Melissa. We bonded instantly, like long-lost relatives. It's an extraordinary feeling."
Why Night Court Resonates
"The brilliance of Night Court lies in its characters. Each one is hilariously unique, and together, they create a comedic masterpiece. Audiences crave those big, hearty laughs, and this show delivers them in spades."
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Teasing Palm Royale
"Season two of Palm Royale is going to be off the charts. With Carol Burnett and Kristen Wiig in the mix, it's a wild ride. The showrunner, Abe Sylvia, is a genius. He's not just a writer; he's a collaborator who listens to our input and brings the characters to life. It's a truly collaborative environment."
Lessons from Show Business
"In this industry, flexibility and openness are key. Treat every job as if it's your first. Gratitude and excitement should fuel your passion. That's the secret to longevity."
Advice for Writing Mature Female Characters
"Writers need to focus on creating authentic characters, not stereotypes. When you're writing someone older than yourself, acknowledge the gap in understanding. Forget the age and write the person. That's the essence of creating believable, multidimensional characters."
