By: Mariah Thomas
Photo By USA Network © 2026 VERSANT MEDIA
Q) Our introduction to Amanda Vonn in that initial trailer is Lana Parrilla’s Bruiser calling her “Medusa in Chanel.” What was the initial breakdown you received to this role?
A) Honestly, her description was intoxicating to me. “Immaculate and precise. A razor wrapped in silk. Raised in Charleston’s elite…cotillion, legacy boarding schools, summers on Sullivan Island. Chose a life abroad, attending Oxford. Then, she came back to Charleston to dominate as a founding partner. White gloves and steel contracts behind closed doors.” So, yes, even on paper Amanda thrilled me.
Q) How did that description influence the way you approached her psychologically?
A) My biggest challenge in finding the pocket with her was restraint…trusting the resonance in her silence. With any character, I build a detailed history and inner life. My use of that with Amanda made ease feel dangerous. In the moments she’s stoic and still, her mind is calculating with such efficacy all the time. A coiled viper ready to strike.
Q) You have brought to life so many distinct characters throughout your career. Was there anything about Amanda that surprised you as you explored this role more than wasn’t immediately obvious in the script?
A) Yes. The things that make her lean in with the tender side of her heart. She’s not warm and fuzzy. But in her way, I see her championing women in a male dominated industry. Children are a particularly soft spot for her for a myriad of reasons (that I’ve made up in my head). I’m certain she never expected to come across a case like this one when she took on this billionaire client. It’s uncomfortable and triggering for her which makes it so delicious to play.
Q) I loved you in “Greenleaf,” “The Flight Attendant” and “Truth Be Told” to name a few. As a fan it is fun to see you step into a more villainous role. Was there a difference in your process of building this character from page to screen given she is presented to us as an antagonist?
A) Thank you for those kind words! Re: villainous role…No. Same process. To me, “villainous” signals trauma to be excavated. I become deeply sympathetic to someone who is clearly activated by a core wound. She’s so guarded. But it’s effortless at this point. So, I know Amanda has worked hard at being unreadable and flawless. The question is “why?”
Q) Amanda tells the audience during the talk she is a part of it that it is crucial to know when to strike. How much of her confidence is genuine and how much of it do you think is a front to protect herself?
A) Oh great question. I just ran the NYC marathon, so forgive the running analogy but here it is. Anyone who has endeavored an endurance sport does not get by unscathed. You get injured… a lot. It’s what you do with that. You may see someone operating with incredible physical dexterity and not know the anxiety icing that was happening that morning. The places where doubt creeps in. That’s why you train. To be physically capable, but also to train your MIND. I think this is practiced and trained into Amanda to be cool as a cucumber. So, if you see her face crack or her emotions surface, get ready for a bigger volcano. And it’s coming!
Q) As we dive deeper into the story, is it possible for viewers to expect how they feel about Amanda or will she continue to be the clear villain?
A) I’m gonna leave that to the viewers to decide. I will say that this show is very well written and loves to explore the gray areas of morality. Good art should make us question and examine what we perceive as good and bad. From civil rights to how we care for our planet, we should always hold up the mirror and question it to move forward.
Q) Without spoilers of course, what insight can you give on Amanda’s interest in finally giving Sarah a chance at her firm?
A) There is an obvious and immediate ulterior motive at play. But I think she sees something in Sarah. She’s fiery and ambitious. Amanda likes that very much.
Q) Sarah Plankmore brought to life by Madison Iseman is the perfect parallel opposite to Amanda. Do you think their relationship is built on mentorship, strategy, or something in the middle?
A) They are both getting what they need out of this tenuous alliance. I do think Amanda sees Sarah’s potential. Right now, Sarah is a pawn to her. But as more of Sarah’s grit is revealed to her, Amanda definitely sees more. I think Amanda wants other women to rise, but they have to prove their mettle for her to even side-eye their way.
Q) What was your experience working alongside Madison Iseman to showcase the intense dynamic between Amanda and Sarah?
A) Madison is game for anything and so much fun. We had to quit the giggling to drop in. But that kind of safety and camaraderie makes it easier to “go there.” I had to say and do some mean things to her cherub face. It was easier knowing we’d burst into laughs right after. Add the wonderful Libby Kay as my sardonic assistant Megan and we had a damn good time.
Q) Amanda is described as a powerhouse attorney and in the trailer there is a question of if she would kill to maintain her power. What does power mean to her, and what do you think she’s willing to sacrifice to keep it?
A) Power is survival to her. I want to say she’d do anything to keep it, but part of her story examines how far she’s willing to go. Tune in. It’s an emotional arc.
Q) This is an incredible cast and with Amanda’s venomous energy I am certain there are some fun, tense scenes ahead for viewers. Is there a specific scene you are most excited for people to see?
A) I have trouble watching my work, so I don’t know about excited. But I’m interested in a turn she takes. She’s back in the white suit for it. I’ll be interested to know what y’all think.
Q) Though new to this season, Amanda seems to be such a vital part to the story. What has it been like to step into an established cast and help guide a new dynamic to the series?
A) This entire cast and crew couldn’t have been more welcoming. It was an adjustment with jet lag and acclimating to a new country (I’d never been to Ireland!).Other than that, it’s as you perceive. I was one of the fam
from the beginning. That tells you all you need to know about the generosity of these beautiful, talented folks. And they were always game for my wild TikTok ideas. A true joy!
Q) “The Rainmaker” is in its second season. What about this show do you think keeps viewers enticed?
A) The first thing that comes to mind is that Season 2 is the first departure from the story of the original Grisham novel. Both the movie and the first season did a beautiful job telling that story. Now these dynamic and gorgeous characters are being put into new extraordinary circumstances. You’re in for a treat.
Q) Are there other projects you are currently working on and can tease?
A) Nothing I can announce, but I can say that I’ll be back on stage in New York soon. And I’ll be back on screen in a beloved character.
Q) What would you like to say to fans and supporters of you and your work?
A) I’m so encouraged and blown away when I hear that something I’ve poured myself into has touched you. I hope you feel as seen, understood and appreciated when you pursue a passion. Remember, even if you just plant a mustard seed that you will never see in full fruition, you will have, as Emerson says, “been a success.”