Reagan Star Amanda Righetti on Surviving Hollywood: ‘Things Changed So Fast’

Exclusive Interview with The Hollywood Reporter

Amanda Righetti Talks ‘Reagan,’ ‘The O.C.’, and Her Career Trajectory

Amanda Righetti is reflecting on her impressive career journey, including her roles in both ‘Reagan’ and ‘The O.C.’.

The actress, who currently stars as Nancy Reagan in the new Showtime series about the former president, spoke to The Hollywood Reporter about the evolution of her career and some of her most memorable moments on set.

From ‘The O.C.’ to ‘Reagan’

Righetti is perhaps best known for her role as Hailey Nichol in the popular teen drama ‘The O.C.’. She landed the role in 2003, and it quickly propelled her to fame.

“Things changed so fast,” Righetti said of her experience on ‘The O.C.’. “I went from being a nobody to being on one of the biggest shows on TV. It was a whirlwind, but it was also an amazing experience.”

After ‘The O.C.’ ended in 2007, Righetti went on to star in a number of other films and television shows, including ‘Friday Night Lights,’ ‘The Mentalist,’ and ‘ Colony’.

On Playing Nancy Reagan

In ‘Reagan,’ Righetti plays Nancy Reagan, the former first lady of the United States.

Righetti said she was drawn to the role because she was fascinated by Nancy Reagan’s story.

“She was a very complex and fascinating woman,” Righetti said. “She was a strong and independent woman, but she was also very devoted to her husband. I think she was a great first lady, and I’m honored to have had the opportunity to play her.”

Looking Ahead

Righetti is currently filming the second season of ‘Reagan,’ and she is also developing a number of other projects.

The actress said she is excited about the future and is looking forward to continuing to grow and evolve as an artist.

“I’m always looking for new challenges,” Righetti said. “I’m excited to see what the future holds.”