Paley Fest was spectacular. It was beyond exciting to attend this event as a member of the press at the same venue that held the Oscars; the Dolby Theater!

I was fortunate to interview Danielle Brooks who was looking fantastic in her amazing green and sparkling shoes! Danielle commented on her favorite moments in “Orange is the New Black,” stating her difficult scene in acting with Taystee and Poussey in the Licthfield Prison library.

DB: Yes, that was a challenging scene and my first scene was challenging. I had Natasha Lyonne and Yael Stone watching me. There was also Jenji Kohan and Michael Trim the director on the side and I’m here with Taylor [Schilling] and her breasts are staring at me. That was pretty nerve wracking. But it worked out.

KR: What was your take on the diversity of the show?

DB: I’m glad to be a part of it. I’m glad to be that voice of those who are voiceless like myself because I’m not your average 6 size from the other stories that have been told, or sexual preference, so I’m glad that we are all being represented well. It’s like a movement.

KR: What was it like coming into season 2?

DB: It was very nerve wracking because it’s such an expectation to be great and you wanted to deliver. So, you get back and focus on the work and then it falls right back into place.

Then Natasha Lyonne and Kate Mugrew walked right by me and Natasha saying ” What’s happening?” while being escorted to get ready for the panel.

Seconds later, Michael Harney walked over with a big smile on his face. We said hello and then he gave me a bear hug.

KR: What was it like coming into the second season of Orange is The New Black?

MH: It was really exciting. I’m really inspired by the role and the show. I feel really fortunate and thankful to be part of it.

KR: I noticed that you just wrapped your new independent film recently. ” Bad Hurt” , can you tell us about this movie and your role?

MH: It was an amazing experience for me. I play the dad of a special need child, an ex-marine who’s the father of my son who’s also a marine. There’s a lot of real familial strife and conflicts in the movie.

KR. Was it a heavy drama?

MH: Well, it was a drama. You know, it was a meaningful film. People would get a lot out of it.

KR: I know you need to get to the stage so I won’t keep you! Have fun! And thank you so much!

MH: Thank you and enjoy the panel.