During Hallmark’s virtual press panel for Paris Is Always a Good Idea, I asked the cast whether there was a moment during production that initially made them think, “I can’t do this,” only to discover they were capable of much more than they expected.
The conversation led to a candid and heartfelt discussion about vulnerability, support, and why taking creative risks continues to matter—even for seasoned performers.
Lacey Chabert Faced One of Her Biggest Challenges
While Barbara Niven immediately recalled one memorable moment, it was Lacey Chabert who admitted that filming a karaoke sequence became one of the most intimidating experiences of the production.
“I was so nervous for that scene,” Chabert shared. “Because I had to sing and it was like two o’clock in the morning… We were pressed for time.”
She remembered looking toward her castmates for reassurance before stepping into the moment.
“I do remember looking out at you and Rebecca’s face… you were sending me such love and support. I was like, ‘Okay… just close your eyes.'”
The encouragement from Barbara Niven and Rebecca Hanssen helped calm those nerves, with Hanssen telling Chabert she “smashed it,” while Scott Michael Foster admitted he’d heard nothing but great things about the performance.
The Experience Inspired Her to Sing Again
Although Chabert performed professionally as a child—including on Broadway—she revealed she hadn’t truly sung in many years.
“I hadn’t sung professionally in many, many, many years,” she explained. “I haven’t really been singing since I was a kid.”
What surprised her most wasn’t simply getting through the scene—it was how much she enjoyed rediscovering that part of herself.
“After doing that scene, I realized I want to get back into vocal lessons and I want to start singing.”
The revelation prompted enthusiastic support from her castmates, with Scott Michael Foster immediately responding, “Let’s go.”
Why the Nerves Never Go Away
The discussion soon expanded beyond one scene to the reality of acting itself.
Despite years of experience, Chabert admitted that nerves still arrive moments before the cameras roll.
“Don’t you also feel like it even takes you by surprise when your heart starts beating fast before you roll the camera? You’re like, ‘Why am I so nervous? I’ve done this a million times.'”
Scott Michael Foster agreed.
“Yeah… I shouldn’t be nervous. Why am I nervous?”
Barbara Niven described those butterflies as part of the creative process.
“That’s the magic too. That’s the goosebumps.”
For Chabert, those feelings serve as an important reminder.
“I’ve realized it means I still care so much.”
Chabert praised her fellow cast members for the encouragement they offered throughout production, explaining that they leaned on one another through long filming days and even supported each other during personal moments away from set.
Rebecca Hanssen also reflected on joining the project, admitting that seeing the cast list immediately put her at ease.
Despite performing the role using an American accent, Hanssen credited her co-stars for helping fine-tune her performance throughout filming.
New episodes of Paris is Always a Good Idea drop every Thursday on Hallmark+.
