When I look at female characters, I want to recognize myself in them - my trials, my tribulations as a mother, as a wife, as a lover, as a daughter.

Do I pray? Yes. Prayer is very important to me.

Normally, I rely heavily on my director to massage me out of my actor comfort zones.

I look for struggle in the roles I choose - struggle and perseverance.

It's terrifying to be the lead. There's a moment of excitement, and then pure terror.

No role is more challenging, rewarding and inspiring than my real-life role as a mom and a wife.

I have the best husband a wife could possibly have. He's the best father my children could have.