On her new movie Murder, She Baked: A Chocolate Chip Cookie Mystery, Sweeney said, “The series is based on the series of NY Times best-selling books by Joanne Fluke, and they’re fun, light-hearted mysteries that combine intrigue with a bit of romance. My character is a baker so a great aspect of the books are the recipes that I’ve loved trying and the same will be true for the movies.”
Regarding her inspiration to take on this acting project, Sweeney explained, “It’s so much fun to really immerse myself in a character again but to have a much less demanding schedule than when I was on Days of Our Lives. Hannah Swenson is a bit quirky, very inquisitive and definitely creative. I’ve loved getting to know her and taking how I’ve envisioned her from the books, and adding my own flair.”
She collaborated with veteran soap actor Cameron Mathison on this film, which was a thrill for Sweeney. “I love working with Cameron. He’s so much fun and always prepared. It”s funny how we’ve known each other for so long through Daytime, but this is really our first time working together. His character is a bit of a know-it-all but charming enough to overlook it,” she said.
Yet another fun experience was working with veteran actress Barbara Nivens. “Barbara is awesome! I’ve never worked with her before and am loving it! She had her birthday on set, which was super-fun, but then she shared her flowers with me when she wrapped. How thoughtful is that?! Such a mom,” she said.
While the author, Joanne Fluke, has yet to see the movie, since they are still in the filming process, Sweeney hopes that she will be happy with it.
Regarding her plans for the future, she said, “I’m going to continue to host The Biggest Loser for NBC, star in this awesome movie franchise for Hallmark’s Movies & Mysteries, produce and star in Radio Hype for Hallmark and I will release my third novel next year.”
When asked how she juggles all of these projects, she said, “I take everything one day at a time, and do the best that I can with whatever the task in the moment. My No. 1 priority is always my family and then making smart choices about what else I schedule around them.”
For aspiring actors, she recommended they work hard and pursue their dreams. “Don’t become an actor just to be famous, do it because you love it,” she said.
Sweeney noted that she had the best fans. “I know it sounds cliché but it’s true. My fans have consistently supported me and celebrated my successes alongside me for over 20 years and I am beyond grateful to each of them,” she concluded.
Fans can tune in on Sunday, May 2 at 9 p.m. EST/8 p.m. CT on Hallmark’s Movies & Mysteries to catch Murder, She Baked: A Chocolate Chip Cookie Mystery.
To learn more about Alison Sweeney, check out her official Facebook page.
