Linda Kash stars in the new holiday movie Auld Lang Syne with fellow Canadian icon Mimi Kuzyk. The premise is a very funny concept: two frenemies hide on a film set while the cast and crew go home and the homeowners enjoy a paid vacation in Hawaii.
At first, Nell (Mimi Kuzyk) says, “I’d ruin my Christmas to ruin yours,” but eventually they seize the opportunity to reminisce about their journey from performing in off-Broadway shows in New York to small parts in Canadian productions.
Millie (Linda Kash) says, “Canadians are scrappy. We’re still knocking out those movies that no one wants to see,” but trust me, this is a movie you’ll want to see! It’s refreshing because movies rarely feature two single older women without focusing on their roles as mothers, grandmothers, wives or sisters.
My favourite quote from Millie was that she’d “be happy to be Liam Neeson’s 50th choice. How could you live this long and not lower your standards?”
I’m excited to share my interview with Second City alum Linda Kash and the holidays are the perfect backdrop to reflect on her career.
It’s amazing how you played the Philadelphia Cream Cheese Angel for 25 years! After your iconic run in TV ads, what do you think about current commercials and the industry’s shift to influencers?
I think one of the reasons that the Philly commercials were so successful was not only because the writing was so smart, but also because there was so much time and attention paid to the exquisite art direction, the music [and] costumes. My original wingspan was over 12 feet! And of course, the hair and makeup. All that takes budget.
The current market has opened up to a host of everyday people who are making a difference. Some of it is really fun and clever, but I will always appreciate production value. And I think that’s going the way of the dodo.
What is your favourite place to buy bagels?
Harbord Bakery and Yitz’s, which is now closed. My late great dad and I ate there a lot.
If you were alone in a stranger’s home, which rooms would you snoop first? What kind of clothing would you want to borrow?
Hilarious question! I’m a fanatic for open houses even when I’m not in the market. I am a major snoop. I am also an eavesdropper, so be careful. My mother was an incredible amateur interior decorator, but I sadly did not inherit her gift of style. So I like to see what other people are doing and emulate their décor.
I’d probably start in the kitchen, linger in the living room, head to the bathroom, check out the primary bedroom. I’d probably try on suits if there were some, but I’d be more prone to ‘borrow’ the jewellery.
If you could spend the holidays anywhere, what would be your dream location?
Anywhere that I can hike. I truly could walk forever. As long as it’s not too hilly. I don’t care if it’s [a] beach or by a lake. A forest or desert. Any path will do. One of my favourite trips was to Lake Louise in the wintertime over COVID, so I walked the frozen lake alone. Magical!
Millie and Nell look and act like older versions of Brooke (Sophia Bush) and Peyton (Hilarie Burton) on One Tree Hill. What was the best part of filming a movie about female friendship?
Getting to know the Marvellous Ms. Mimi. I made a forever friend. She was a riot to work with. Swore like a sailor. She’s a pro. And the camera loves her. Joan [Carr-Wiggin] wrote such a fun script for us. Every day on set was a joy. It was a special project.
What was it like to work with Ryan Allen?
He’s as excited about the business as his character is. Not an ounce of cynicism. It’s beautiful.
Millie says, “I could never pass for ordinary. I stand out,” and she is very likeable thanks to her optimistic attitude. What do you think it takes to stand out as an actor?
Relax and be yourself. Or at least allow the character to utilize facets of yourself. When I teach at my acting school, I remind students of all ages, “you’re interesting enough.” Use what makes you, you.
Millie and Nell complain about young actors finding success with little experience. As an acting and writing instructor, how do you empower the next generation? What would you say is the most important lesson from your career that you want to share?
Every job will teach you something, whether you’re driving a feature film, carrying a spear or biting a bagel for a dozen takes. Say yes, more than no. It’s all worth it.
Auld Lang Syne will be released this November and you should add it to your holiday movie marathon!