Paula Devicq, the actress known for her role in the 1990s drama Party of Five, addressed long-standing rumors about her weight and health in a recent interview. The conversation arose as Devicq promotes her new role in 100 Centre Street, a legal drama directed by Sidney Lumet, marking his return to television after a decades-long focus on film. The actress, who at times appeared strikingly thin during the final season of Party of Five, firmly denied having an eating disorder, attributing her fluctuating weight to a demanding work schedule and personal transitions.
Devicq’s comments came during a premiere event for 100 Centre Street, where she spoke candidly about the tabloid speculation that followed her during a particularly busy period in her career. She explained that she was juggling commitments to Party of Five, preparing for the new television series, and pursuing stage work, all while attempting to relocate from Los Angeles back to New York City. The actress laughed off the persistent rumors, stating, “I eat! Look at me! I’m always trying to eat.” She added, with a touch of humor, that as long as her name was spelled correctly in the tabloids, the attention wasn’t entirely unwelcome.
A Family Resemblance and Lingering Concerns
Devicq also pointed to genetics as a contributing factor to her slender frame, referencing her mother, who was present at the premiere. She noted the striking resemblance between herself and her mother, suggesting a shared predisposition to a lean physique. “You see, it’s all in the genes. Look at her. Same thing,” she said. Despite her assurances, Devicq acknowledged being aware of the public’s perception, saying, “Do you hear that? Everyone thinks I’m too thin.” Still, those who met her in person at the event described her as looking “radiant and healthy.”
Revisiting the Salinger Family
The conversation also touched on the possibility of a Party of Five reunion. Devicq revealed she recently spoke with Lacey Chabert, who played Claudia Salinger on the show, and remains in contact with the producers. When asked about a potential reboot, she expressed some hesitation, noting that the original series had just wrapped. “One of them asked if it was too early for a reunion show! I said, I think so, we just wrapped!” Party of Five, which aired from 1994 to 2000, followed the lives of the Salinger siblings as they navigated life after the tragic loss of their parents. The show remains a touchstone for many who grew up in the 90s, and speculation about a revival has surfaced periodically over the years.
Lumet’s Return to Television
The premiere of 100 Centre Street marked a significant moment in television, representing Sidney Lumet’s return to the medium after nearly 50 years. Lumet, 76 at the time, is a celebrated director known for his gritty and realistic portrayals of New York City, with films like Serpico (1973), Dog Day Afternoon (1975), and 12 Angry Men (1957) solidifying his reputation as a master storyteller. The New York Times reported that Lumet’s decision to return to television was driven by a desire to explore the complexities of the legal system in a long-form format.
A Unique Approach to Legal Drama
100 Centre Street distinguishes itself from other legal dramas with its unconventional structure and realistic portrayal of a New York night court. The opening scene, a remarkable 12-minute continuous shot, immerses viewers in the chaotic and often unpredictable atmosphere of the courtroom, with Alan Arkin delivering a compelling performance as a judge known for his unorthodox rulings. Lumet intentionally resisted pressure to shorten the scene, believing it was essential to establish the show’s tone and realism. “This proves 12 minutes long,” he explained, “and there was never a discussion of cutting it. I had to set it up because This represents what the series is about.”
The series also features LaTanya Richardson as a formidable African-American judge, a role that many critics praised as a standout performance. Devicq plays a young assistant district attorney, a character that allows her to showcase a different side of her acting abilities, moving away from the more vulnerable roles she portrayed in Party of Five. The show, produced by David Black, who also worked on Law &. Order, was seen as a bold attempt by A&E to compete with HBO’s The Sopranos in the realm of high-quality, character-driven drama.
Remembering Bernie Geis
The article also includes a remembrance of Bernie Geis, a prominent publisher who died on Monday at the age of 91. Geis was instrumental in the success of authors like Jacqueline Susann, whose novel Valley of the Dolls became a cultural phenomenon. The author recalls a unique and unconventional work environment at Geis’s office in 1980, where a fireman’s pole connected the fourth and fifth floors, requiring employees to slide down to reach different offices. This quirky tradition, overseen by Geis’s assistant Alice, became a memorable part of the office culture, and a custom pen featuring a secretary sliding down a pole served as a reward for those who braved the descent.
Geis’s office was also a frequent stop for authors, including Father Andrew Greeley, whose novel The Cardinal Sins sparked controversy and achieved significant commercial success. The author recounts a memorable moment when Greeley, clad in his priestly attire, slid down the fireman’s pole, much to the amusement of those present. The anecdote highlights Geis’s unconventional approach to publishing and his willingness to embrace the eccentricities of his authors and employees.
100 Centre Street ultimately aimed to deliver a fresh and compelling take on the legal drama genre, and Lumet’s involvement signaled a commitment to quality storytelling. The series, which premiered on A&E, promised to explore the complexities of the New York legal system with the same realism and depth that characterized Lumet’s acclaimed films. Viewers can expect further developments in the cases presented in 100 Centre Street as the season progresses, with new episodes airing weekly on A&E.
Editor’s Note: This article contains information about body image and eating disorders. If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, please reach out for help. The National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) offers resources and support at https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/ or call their helpline at 1-800-931-2237.
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