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BOOKS Geri Jewell: 'Facts of Life' actress gives straight talk
April 27, 2011
NUNN ON ONE: Special to the online edition of Windy City Times
By Jerry Nun
Windy City Times
www.windycitymediagroup.com
Comedian and actress Geri Jewell will forever be in our hearts as the first person with a disability to have a regular role on a prime-time TV series, portraying Geri on Facts of Life. Jewell, who has cerebral palsy, has a new memoir, I'm Walking as Straight as I Can. In it, she describes barely surviving birth, having a bad manager, rising back to fame on the HBO series Deadwood and coming out as a lesbian. Jerry spoke to Geri right before the debut of the new book.
Windy City Times: Hi, Geri. I have been reading your new book.
Geri Jewell: How far are you into it?
Windy City Times: I am currently towards the very end.
Geri Jewell: Wow! You read fast.
Windy City Times: Are you excited for the book to come out?
Geri Jewell: Yes, I am very. I have put my heart and soul into that book.
Windy City Times: When did you start writing?
Geri Jewell: You know what? I have been a writer for as long as I can remember. Even when I was in college and wanted to do stand-up comedy my mom said, "You are an excellent writer. Why don't you write instead?" [Laughs] I have always had a flare for writing. This was such an accomplishment for me. It was a dream come true.
Windy City Times: What do you hope to accomplish with the book?
Geri Jewell: My intent was to present myself in a full scope, humanistic vision. Because I have been so misunderstood over the years. I have carried so much over the years inside of me. I wanted to share my life as it really was instead of being this inspirational icon. I am a human being with weaknesses and strengths. This is what I have been through and was hoping that by telling my story that I would inspire others and make them keep going no matter what. Are you enjoying reading it?
Windy City Times: I am. I like the behind the scenes of it. Also, I relate to the part where you were bullied because I was picked on for being gay.
Geri Jewell: Well, I understand that. It still happens today.
Windy City Times: Do you still talk to any of the girls from Facts of Life?
Geri Jewell: I just got back in touch with Mindy Cohn but not have spoken with the others in years. I think that will come about though. Like I said in the book, I have total respect for each and every one of them.
Windy City Times: Did you see Mindy's movie, [the gay-themed film] Violet Tendencies?
Geri Jewell: Yes, I did. I thought she did a wonderful job.
Windy City Times: So you haven't gotten Lisa Whelchel's thoughts on your coming out?
Geri Jewell: No, I have not. I have that feeling that I will run into her soon.
Windy City Times: You mention in the book that you don't agree with her religious views.
Geri Jewell: Yeah, but that has nothing to do with not loving her or respecting her beliefs. I believe differently. That is her choice and I respect that choice a hundred percent.
Windy City Times: How do you feel about Heather McDonald from Chelsea Handler's show doing impersonations of you?
Geri Jewell: I have no problem with it. Being mimicked is a form of flattery and she does so many people so it is not malicious. It is her. That is what she does. I have to say that she does me very well. She does cerebral palsy better than I do and I have it!
Windy City Times: You love celebrities. Was there a special one that you met? You mention Carol Burnett throughout the book.
Geri Jewell: She was a big one for me. I have met many celebrities over the years. There are some that I am not impressed with. I would have to say good ones were Carol Burnett, Liza Minelli and Steve Allen. David Cassidy was especially kind to me. Yes, there are many celebrities that I am fans of and respect as human beings.
Windy City Times: Are you currently single?
Geri Jewell: Yes, I am.
Windy City Times: How was your family with you coming out of the closet?
Geri Jewell: My parents are no longer living but I am sure they would have supported me. My siblings support me. They love me regardless. I have always had a supportive family. If people read my book then they understand that.
Windy City Times: Definitely. You mention your very survival depended on them. You performed in HBO's Deadwood not too long ago. Are there other shows you want to do?
Geri Jewell: Well, of course but I have been getting ready for the book tour so that is where my primary focus has been for quite a while. I am looking forward to it and seeing how the book does. I want feedback to see if people enjoy the read and as much as I enjoyed writing it.
Windy City Times: Are you coming to Chicago with the book tour?
Geri Jewell: I am hoping to but I don't know positively that will be one of the stops right now.
Windy City Times: Your bright smile has always shown bright and I have been a fan since I was learning the Facts of Life.
Geri Jewell: Thank you, Jerry. That means a lot to me! Have a beautiful day!!!
For more information about Geri and the book, visit http:// www.gerijewell.com .
