Gilmore Girls: Kelly Bishop Shares Touching Memories of Ed Herrmann

Gilmore Girls: Kelly Bishop Shares Touching Memories of Ed Herrmann

As a long-time fan of the Gilmore Girls series, I have always admired the intricate dynamics between the characters and the deep emotions they conveyed on screen. One character who particularly stood out to me was Edward Herrmann, the charming yet complex Richard Gilmore. His portrayal of the father of Lorelai Gilmore brought a touch of class and elegance to the show, and his chemistry with Kelly Bishop as Emily Gilmore was nothing short of captivating.


On the show “Gilmore Girls”, although many love triangles and short-lived romances existed, the relationship that withstood the passage of time was between Richard and Emily Gilmore.

As a lifestyle expert, I’d put it this way: In the delightful television show that spanned seven seasons, Kelly Bishop and the late Ed Herrmann brought to life the cherished grandparents of Rory Gilmore (Alexis Bledel) and sometimes troubled parents of Lorelai Gilmore (Lauren Graham). These two exceptional actors truly enriched the series with their memorable performances.

Despite Bishop not being present with Herrmann for the 2016 Netflix revival titled “Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life”, she confesses that the filming experience was notably different.

Let me tell you, it wasn’t easy stepping into the role without Herrmann after his passing in 2015. He was our go-to man. I truly believe he would have been a part of this reboot if given the chance.

Despite her claims of a significant difference between herself and the character Emily in reality, Bishop points out that there was an instant connection between her and Herrmann during the filming process.

Since we were both actors from New York, we naturally shared a sense of camaraderie. To make things even better, we found out that we both enjoyed solving the New York Times crossword puzzle. I’d get a copy and work on it with her in the makeup and hair trailer during breaks. If we didn’t finish, we’d take it to set and continue working on it between takes.

On occasions, when they weren’t busy on the set of the popular series in Los Angeles, Bishop (now 80 years old) and Herrmann (who passed away at 71 due to brain cancer) would enjoy dining out and having drinks together.

Gilmore Girls: Kelly Bishop Shares Touching Memories of Ed Herrmann

Bishop mentioned that we got along exceptionally well since we shared similar experiences, he added. Working with him was a pleasure, and he was simply outstanding.

After his demise, Bishop took on the role of portraying Emily, a mourning widow, as she navigated an entirely fresh universe independently in the revival of the series.

Gilmore Girls: Kelly Bishop Shares Touching Memories of Ed Herrmann

She mentioned that in terms of straight-forward narratives, the reboot offered a more engaging plotline for her character compared to others. She explained that while everyone else had progressed and evolved, her own life underwent a dramatic transformation. This change provided her with numerous opportunities, which she thoroughly enjoyed exploring.

Although Bishop was delighted by her comeback, she remains uncertain about upcoming episodes of the series. She expressed this doubt, stating, “I’d be thrilled to revisit it again and find us as our characters at our current ages, exploring where we’ve ended up… It could possibly happen. Yet, I must admit, I don’t believe it’s very probable.

For more behind-the-scenes details from the Gilmore Girls set, read on. 

Gilmore Girls: Kelly Bishop Shares Touching Memories of Ed Herrmann

The setting for the show, the fictional Stars Hollow, was sparked by Amy Sherman-Palladino‘s unforeseen trip to Washington, Connecticut. Enchanted by the locals she encountered, customs she observed, and inn where she lodged, she departed with the idea for the series – even some of the pilot’s dialogue was born from that visit.

If I could manage to evoke even a fraction of the emotions I experienced wandering through this enchanting village in others, Sherman-Palladino said, that would be simply magical.

2. Alexis Bledel, who at the time was an NYU student with just one unacknowledged acting role to her name, tried out for the character of Rory.

During an interview on Late Night with Seth Meyers, Bledel recounted her experience: “I was unwell while studying at NYU, but they kept inviting me for auditions. I must have gone six times, although I wasn’t a highly experienced actor. I didn’t understand the process well. I got a bit restless and developed an attitude. Our boss appreciated that a lot, saying, ‘That’s our girl!’ I responded, ‘Will you bring me back again?’ to which she replied, ‘I like that, that fits perfectly.’

Gilmore Girls: Kelly Bishop Shares Touching Memories of Ed Herrmann

3. Gilmore Girls without Lauren Graham as Lorelai? Unimaginable, right? But it almost happened.

In 2016, when I received the script for the Gilmore Girls pilot, I was in New York, temporarily residing in a friend’s studio apartment. I was anxiously waiting to learn if the series I had recently finished for NBC, titled Don Rooses’ M.Y.O.B., would be renewed for another season or canceled instead.

Thankfully, M.Y.O.B. wasn’t chosen instead, thus enabling Graham to take on the quick-witted main role, a benefit not only for him but also for any actress vying for the same part.

In a rather uncommon and intense moment, when I come across something that I yearn for deeply, I can’t help but lose myself briefly, yet completely. This is the sensation I experienced upon reading the script, a blend of “Ah, there you are, my old acquaintance,” and an urgent exclamation of “Step aside, everyone! She’s mine!

Gilmore Girls: Kelly Bishop Shares Touching Memories of Ed Herrmann

4. Among all actors who auditioned for the role of Luke, Scott Paterson stood out uniquely, captivating the casting directors right away with his endearing yet gruff portrayal of the diner owner who later became Lorelai’s husband.

According to Jill Anthony, the casting director, Amy stated, “I have no need to meet any other candidates.” She added, “She’s absolutely right,” or simply put, “Amy is spot on.

But Paterson never thought he was going to sport Luke’s signature hat and flannel shirts. 

As a lifestyle expert, I’d rephrase that as: “On that particular day, I found myself at the second audition. Initially, I had only rehearsed one scene, but it was supposed to be two. So, I walked in and gave it my best shot. At that point, I had resigned myself to not getting the part, as the script for a show called ‘Gilmore Girls’ was simply too good. With stars already being considered for the roles, I felt it was futile to continue wasting time. I needed to hurry up and make it to my next audition before getting a ticket outside. Could you kindly escort me out?

Gilmore Girls: Kelly Bishop Shares Touching Memories of Ed Herrmann

5. Before Jared Padalecki secured the lead role as Rory’s first love, Dean Forester, another two Canadian actors were let go from the show because the character was being made less “unconventional.” According to Anthony, this is what he shared with Vanity Fair.

6. Both Ryan Gosling and Chris Pine tried out for the television series. However, Gosling’s audition didn’t quite hit the mark, with casting director Jami Rudofsky confessing at the 2015 ATX TV Festival that it was less than impressive.

Meanwhile, Pine shared that it was his father, actor Robert Pine, who arranged his initial professional audition. However, he admitted he can’t recall the role for which he auditioned. In a video for W Magazine, he jokingly speculated, “I guess I might have been up for a boyfriend part.

Gilmore Girls: Kelly Bishop Shares Touching Memories of Ed Herrmann

7. Despite Melissa McCarthy eventually becoming a major comedy star in Hollywood, Sherman-Palladino disclosed that she had to advocate for casting McCarthy as the endearing and quirky chef Sookie.

As Sherman-Palladino clarified during the cast’s reunion panel at the 2015 ATX TV Festival, “People weren’t entirely convinced. It wasn’t that they disliked her, but she had a unique energy. She was a distinct type of woman,”

“The part was merely written for a female character, with no specifications regarding body type. I said, ‘I need someone funny who can truly act,'” Sherman-Palladino continued.

Although Sherman-Palladino recognized McCarthy as the ideal candidate from the moment she entered the room, she admitted, “It was a challenging proposition. It took some time… everyone eventually agreed, but it required several episodes.

Gilmore Girls: Kelly Bishop Shares Touching Memories of Ed Herrmann

8. In the first episode, Alex Borstein portrayed Sookie, but she had to abandon the character due to her commitments to MADtv. Later, she appeared in minor recurring roles as a harpist and stylist within the series. Sherman-Palladino eventually cast Borstein in The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, where she won two Emmys for her performance on the Amazon production.

Gilmore Girls: Kelly Bishop Shares Touching Memories of Ed Herrmann

10. Initially, Liza Weil tried out for the role of Rory, but producers felt she wasn’t quite suitable. They told her, “We really liked you, but it didn’t quite fit.” However, they hinted that if the show got picked up, they might have a role for her.

Surprisingly, they not only found a role for Weil, but also created one – Paris, who was initially Rory’s rival and later became her friend. At first, Weil was hesitant about the challenging character of Paris.

In a playful manner, the actor from How to Get Away With Murder quipped about his past self being alarmed at the script. He couldn’t imagine anyone daring to write such things! However, now he finds it flattering and is genuinely pleased with the outcome.

Gilmore Girls: Kelly Bishop Shares Touching Memories of Ed Herrmann

11. People often comment on the excellent chemistry between Graham and Bledel. However, it turns out their connection was a happy accident since they didn’t cross paths until their first day on set. Moreover, Bledel was still new to acting, so Graham would sometimes hold her arm during scenes to ensure she reached the right spots.

“On Today, Graham quipped about their chemistry,” he said. “I’m like, ‘It’s because I’m mauling her,'” referring to his frequent physical interactions with Bledel on set.

12. Unlike many other actors, Graham and Bledel often ate the food that Lorelai and Rory ate in the series, a fact well-known by fans who realized it was quite a lot.

Gilmore Girls: Kelly Bishop Shares Touching Memories of Ed Herrmann

13. During the duration of the show, Rory Gilmore’s actress, Alexis Bledel, was in real life relationships with two of her primary on-screen love interests, as confirmed by casting director Mara Casey. (Paraphrased)

In 2016, she confided in Life & Style that there was a joking reference to the possibility of casting all of Alexis’ real-life boyfriends at the time. This included Jared and Milo Ventimiglia, as well as Chris Heuisler, a young New York actor who appeared as a guest character. Chris was a nice kid, she added.

14. Initially, Sean Gunn was presented as Mick, the DSL installer of Stars Hollow, but later became a regular character named Kirk, who had a distinct odd job in each episode. However, why the name change? Gunn explained that Sherman-Palladino had merely forgotten that he already had a name assigned.

Gilmore Girls: Kelly Bishop Shares Touching Memories of Ed Herrmann

15. The WB was considering a spin-off featuring Ventimiglia, using the third season episode “Here Comes the Son” as a trial for the potential new show. If produced, “Windward Circle” would have focused on Jess’ life in Venice Beach, California, but unfortunately, due to financial constraints, the series never moved forward.

16. Towards the end of the seventh season of Gilmore Girls, discussions arose about chronicling Rory’s life as an adult, following her decision not to return, made by Graham.

At some point, I made it clear that I wouldn’t return, as Graham shared with TV Guide. Initially, they considered continuing the project only with Alexis, but neither of us preferred that option. While I can’t speak for her directly, we both had discussions about this, and in the end, we didn’t want to proceed without each other.

She went on saying, “They were brainstorming all possibilities. At one point, there was an idea that perhaps I would create content instead of appearing on the show in my usual role.

Gilmore Girls: Kelly Bishop Shares Touching Memories of Ed Herrmann

17. Negotiations hit a standstill, but then shook Stars Hollow when it was disclosed that the duo of Sherman-Palladino and their spouse Daniel Palladino wouldn’t be back for the seventh (and concluding) season.

Essentially, TV Guide was informed by Palladino that we were unable to reach an agreement on a new contract with the studio. Sherman-Palladino further explained that they had attempted to negotiate a multiple-year contract.

She clarified, “Negotiations can involve multiple possibilities. In our case, we weren’t making unreasonable demands. We weren’t asking for something outlandish or impossible. Essentially, we were trying to safeguard the integrity of the program.

Even though they had already brought on Dave Rosenthal as their successor, Sherman-Palladino confessed that handing over control felt “terrifyingly nightmarish.

And she’s since revealed she’s never watched the final season.

Gilmore Girls: Kelly Bishop Shares Touching Memories of Ed Herrmann

18. There have been whispers of strained relationships between Paterson and Graham off-screen for quite some time, even though their on-screen pairing as Luke and Lorelai was undeniably captivating. Many fans attributed this to the reason behind their beloved couple’s split in a controversial storyline during season six. However, Graham dismissed these rumors in an interview with TV Guide following the show’s conclusion.

She acknowledged that the situation had been exaggerated, but she clarified that her close relationship with David Sutcliffe, who portrayed Rory’s father Christopher, did not influence her actions. She explained, “I was never trying to grant him any unfair advantage because we are friends. That’s not the case.

As a devoted admirer of the show, I can’t help but echo the same feelings of disappointment and frustration shared by fellow fans. Just like everyone else, I was left hanging when Luke and Lorelai’s relationship ended on such an ambiguous note during the series’ original run.

She expressed her deep affection for the dynamic between Luke and Lorelai, stating that she wasn’t pleased with how their storyline concluded. She explained to TV Guide that there was uncertainty about whether it truly ended, as Amy Sherman-Palladino wasn’t present during the last season. Unfortunately, she can’t provide a definitive answer because it didn’t seem to wrap up in a way that felt fulfilling.

Gilmore Girls: Kelly Bishop Shares Touching Memories of Ed Herrmann

19. Due to her departure from the series following season six, the show did not conclude according to Amy Sherman-Palladino’s original plan. She often hinted at this, leaving fans in suspense for years about the “last four words” she had intended to use to wrap up the Gilmore women’s storyline.

In interviews conducted after that time, questions about the enigmatic phrases were frequently posed to the Palladinos. However, they never revealed any specifics, for a purposeful reason. As Sherman-Palladino expressed to Entertainment Weekly, “I wouldn’t want to reveal [my ideas] completely, as if a movie is ever made, I would essentially be returning to the place where I left off, and then I’d find myself in a bit of a predicament.

In 2016, when Netflix revealed their revival plan, it became official that the four-episode series would culminate in the much-anticipated four phrases. You can find all the details about this here. (Indeed, they lived up to the anticipation.)

Gilmore Girls: Kelly Bishop Shares Touching Memories of Ed Herrmann

20. Edward Herrmann and Kelly Bishop portrayed Richard and Emily Gilmore, Lorelai’s upper-class yet affectionate parents. They grew quite fond of each other off-screen, to the point that Herrmann’s spouse, Star Herrmann, referred to Bishop as his “second wife.” Sadly, Herrmann passed away in 2014 at the age of 71 following a fight with brain cancer. In the days before his demise, his wife allowed Bishop to visit him.

She informed Vanity Fair that she was the sole individual who had accompanied us, as it held significance for both of them.

At the ATX TV Festival’s cast reunion panel, a seat on stage was kept empty as a tribute to Herrmann, with Bishop describing the invitation as both touching and unexpected.

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2024-09-21 17:20