“He’s All That”s Heather Ann Gottlieb On The Red Carpet Premiere, Engagement, And Favorite Scene

The Prom Queen is here!

With a strong theater background, actress Heather Ann Gottlieb is constantly on our big screen! She has starred in our favorite TV shows and Movies, including HBO’s “Euphoria” and Netflix’s “He’s All That”.

We had the absolute honor of talking with Heather on her Netflix debut, her favorite scene, and more!

Q: How was it working on the set of “He’s All That”? 

H: “It was surreal working during a global pandemic. Regular Covid-19 testing, face shields, food distribution – it’s definitely bizarre but necessary to keep everyone safe and production on track. It was jarring to go from staying isolated indoors, to filming large crowd scenes for a major film. I had a lot of fun getting to know the other cast members. Everyone was so kind, fun, and supportive. It was also a dream getting to work with Mark Waters! He is so actor-friendly and truly wonderful to collaborate with.”

Q: Have you seen the original? What did you think of it? 

“I love the original! If you didn’t harbor a major crush for Freddie Prince Jr, were you really a 90’s kid? It’s pretty unreal to work with an actor you’ve watched and admired since childhood. I had a hard time keeping my sh*t together when I walked on set and saw Matthew Lillard standing there. Also, can we talk about how wonderful Rachael Leigh Cook is, both then and now!? “

Q: What did you think of the new version? 

H: “I love how the new version makes continuous references to the original. It doesn’t take itself too seriously, is full of joy, and really balances Gen Z/Millennial humor. I feel like this film has something for everyone – whether you’re jonesing for something nostalgic, searching for a light-hearted romp filled with charm and wit, or just love to see Addison Rae shine.”

Q: What is your favorite scene of the remake? 

H: “I’m a huge fan of the prom scene (who doesn’t love a dance-off sequence?). Before production began, I received a draft of the script to look over. When I read that my character won Prom Queen, I screamed my head off. If Highschool-Heather could foresee that Adult-Heather wins Prom Queen in a feature film, I think they would lose their mind! Also, my prom outfit was everything.”

Q: How did you feel when you first got the part? 

H: “I was so excited to hear I would be a part of this film. I’ve found getting attached to smaller roles can be emotionally difficult – they are the most likely roles to get cut out from the script. I’ve had multiple roles cut, both before arriving on set and in the editing room. It’s always disappointing. I loved Celeste’s character, and I was so hopeful she would make it in the final edit. Thankfully, she made it!!”

Q: Do you feel any pressure working in the industry? 

H: “Working in the industry can be difficult for a variety of reasons. The cost of living in Los Angeles is absurdly high, and like any freelance work, it’s hard to budget when you don’t know when your next gig will come. There are a lot of expenses for industry professionals – headshots, camera equipment, editing software, IMDBpro memberships, etc.

There is also a weird pressure for creatives to “Make It Big” in order to receive career validation: ”You’re not a real actor until you’re starring in a Network TV show.” “How’s that acting thing going?” “You’re not a real director until you’ve directed a movie that I’ve personally seen.” Hey fellow creatives: YOU’RE DOING GREAT.”

Q: What has been the highlight of your career so far? 

H: “He’s All That” would definitely have to be the highlight of my career so far. This was my first Red Carpet premiere, and I had no idea what to do. I realized the day of the premiere that I should probably go get my make-up done somewhere?? I ended up driving to a random Sephora in Orange County because it was the only location with same day availability and all Sephora’s in Los Angeles were not doing make-up due to the mask mandate. But I managed to get it together and ended up having a great night at the premiere! Besides working on “He’s All That,” I’ve had the privilege to work on incredible television shows like “Euphoria” and “The Morning Show.” I’m ecstatic every time I get to play on set and cannot wait for more to come.”

Q: What’s next for you and your career? 

H: “I’m recently engaged! So I will be balancing wedding planning with auditions, filming, and playing with my cats. I’m a fully trained actor, so I am hopeful for the opportunity to sink my teeth into larger roles soon.“

Photo Credit: Anais & Dax