Buffy The Vampire Slayer

AMA Clare Kramer from Buffy the Vampire Slayer (self.buffy)

submitted 11 days ago* by ClareKramer

I’m Clare Kramer and I’m very honored to be here and answer your questions until 12pm PT. I’ll be at San Diego Comic-Con hosting a Buffy panel on Sunday 7/15 and my current project is a new site I’ve launched http://www.geeknation.com - Really looking forward to talking to you all!

EDIT: I happen to have a cool Buffy autographed poster and I’d like to randomly give it away to one lucky fan who has participated in my AMA. http://i.imgur.com/QI1AU.jpg So after the chat is over I’ll randomly pick someone and send you a private message. I also have some headshots which I’m happy to autograph, and GeekNation stickers that I can send to others.

EDIT: Thank you so much! I had so much fun. It’s noon and I have to do some work on my website now, but will try to come back and answer more questions later. You have made me feel very welcome on /r/buffy and reddit and I just want to thank you for making this such a positive experience. Hopefully we can do it again sometime!

EDIT: Okay so I closed my eyes and scrolled up and down the AMA page from yesterday and then randomly stopped and pointed at http://www.reddit.com/user/dampierp who is going to win the autographed poster I mentioned yesterday http://i.imgur.com/QI1AU.jpg . I have more prizes for more people though so if you didn’t win just sit tight. I’ll be picking more people to win more fun stuff. oxox Clare

EDIT: I am going to try to answer a few more questions this week and I have chosen a few more people that I’d like to send a little "thank you" gift for participating in my AMA. http://www.reddit.com/user/clockworklycanthrope, http://www.reddit.com/user/fysu, http://www.reddit.com/user/SlayersScythe, http://www.reddit.com/user/Kyoti

RhinoTattoo :

Hi Clare! I don’t have any good serious questions that haven’t already been answered, so here’s what I’m really wondering:

In wardrobe, how much amusement did you get out of sliding into some awesome slinky dress and knowing that Charlie Weber would have to wear one matching it? (I’m specifically thinking of the time Ben woke up in that awesome, shiny red, one-shouldered number.)

dampierpFoamy! :

This is an awesome question.

CJArabia :

I work with Clare and thought I’d post this cute pic of her answering all your questions on reddit right now http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151895841190204&set=a.10150173156870204.416615.10150119900085204&type=1&theater

emhig :

Love it! That’s quite the set up, thanks for sharing :)

unmoderated :

Adorable.

Symphonic_Nightmare :

I see she’s held on to the love of Macs BtVS always seemed to have throughout its run. ;)

TutensteinThe Brie Cat :

Hello Clare! I have two questions if you don’t mind:

Looking back on the character of Glory is there any way you would have preferred her to be written?

And

What were the casting processes/auditions like on Buffy?

ClareKramer :

Hey everyone! Per playing Glory - the only change to how I played the character would have been this: I would have LOVED to know the season arc prior to filming. But as it were, I only found out the Glory story as each episode was written. Not sure the writers even knew where the plot was going...

Phunk131 :

I would think a mind like Joss’ would have it all figured out from the get-go.

rachiedoubt :

Well, there was foreshadowing of Buffy’s death at the end of season 3, or was it 4? Either way... I think he did know what he wanted to do, but maybe preferred that the actors didn’t know everything in advance.

bbythingthing :

Yeah, the big picture fit together too well for it to have been thought of on a week by week basis. Maybe they just hadn’t fleshed out all of the details yet. What was the foreshadowing, by the way? I don’t think I caught it!

rachiedoubt :

This has a pretty detailed explanation—the 730 is what I was referring to. http://forum.rpg.net/archive/index.php/t-307376.html

bbythingthing :

Wow, that is pretty subtle haha. I guess I don’t feel so bad for not remembering. Thanks for posting that :)

king_of_karma :

This suprises me. The entire season is constructed with so much accuracy that you would think the writers knew what they were doing.

ClareKramer :

Casting process... actually one of the easiest I’ve ever been through! I was spoiled! I went in to meet the CD and Joss, with only two pages of dialogue, and no character description. I thought I’d try to play the part a bit differently than I expected anyone else to.... and that night I got a call to come back in the next day. Charlie Webber was there and Joss had us each read for him again, and then stand side-by-side.... and then he told me I’d gotten the job!

bbythingthing :

How did you expect others to play the part? I loved Glory’s character as you played her on the show :)

BigIrishHooligan :

Hi Clare,

So excellent of you to do this AMA.

I don’t have any questions for you, but I wanted to take a few moments to tell you that you have always been my favorite Buffy villain. Also, I will never forget the way that you and your husband stepped up some years ago to save the doomed "Browncoat Bash" and make what could have been a completely ruined trip into something so special and memorable. I wasn’t at the Bash, but many many of my friends were, and as I saw the story unfold I just shook my head in disbelief at what a wonderful person and honest to god class act you are.

Cheers!

ClareKramer :

Oh wow, you are too kind. Listen, anyone in my position would have done the same thing! As I said, you guys are a reflection of me as an artist and in a way as a person... so thank you for being you. :)

puddinhead :

Clare - thanks for doing this AMA! I was wondering what it’s like attending a comicon on your end. What aspect of cons do you like the best and the least?

ClareKramer :

Hey! I always liken conventions to something like a summer camp - and I really think that description can translate to the attendees as well. For us actors, conventions are a time to hang out with our friends in a fun setting! We get to get away from LA (or where ever) and catch-up with old friends, as well as interact with a community that was passionate about a project we were a part of. Really, what could be better than that for an artist! As far as the least likable aspect - I’ll have to think on that one... really, they are pretty rewarding, or trust me - I wouldn’t be attending!

Kirby3Giles :

Just out of curiosity, do you know if any will be held in England? If so would you ever attend one? Everyone says such nice things about you and other cast members, it’d be really great to get a chance to meet you too.

coolbeaNs92Caleb :

Indeed. I love watching the Buffy cons but I cant ever attend as I myself am English too. Really hope that they could one day manage to cross over to this side of pond. Anthony would love the idea I’m sure.

10d6 :

Do you think there has been some kind of connection between Glory and Ben?

ClareKramer :

Explain... a connection off the show? Or the connection of Glory being trapped in the body of Ben’s human form?

clockworklycanthropeFaith :

Ben’s working with Glory?

buffyfan96 :

You mean this whole time he’s been subletting from her?!

mezzitSunday :

Yes, obviously, but what kind?

clockworklycanthropeFaith :

First of all, thank you so much for doing this! I really appreciate how much you seem to care about your fans. You’ve been nothing but sweet and friendly every time I’ve met you at cons, and others have said the same. Thank you for caring so much about the people who love the Buffyverse.

Now, some questions.

What was it like to work with Joss and the series regulars? What was the vibe on set?

What was your favorite Glory moment?

Since you decided on your own to play Glory as crazy and didn’t know where the plot was going, do you think you influenced the writers/plot arc? If so, how?

Thanks again for answering our questions! You were my favorite Buffy big bad. :-)

ClareKramer :

Hey! Thank you guys for having me! You guys are a reflection of me as an artist, in a way, so I’m very thankful for all of you!

Joss was amazing. I hope to, of COURSE, work with him again! His writing just really is so unique, and he has a way of infusing humor into even the most serious of moments... kinda how life should be lived. Set vibe was friendly BUT also hard-working... and of course I LOVED all the cast. I’m still friends with all of them and constantly wrangling them into my latest projects!

Favorite Glory moment - or at least fav bit of dialogue that sticks in my mind:

"Hey, did anyone know the Slayer was a robot?!"

I definitely think I influenced the writing on the show.... not the plot, just to be clear, but the writing for sure. And I think the writers really enjoyed writing the Glory moments, as they were so different than the other character’s dialogue. I could always tell when a new writer would be trying their hand at Glory though, as the jokes would be just a bit different! :)

clockworklycanthropeFaith :

Great answers! That slayer/robot line was one of my favorites, too. It’s cool to hear that you guys are all still friendly. As for Glory, her dialogue was definitely different than that of the other characters, and it’s pretty awesome that you did a lot to make that happen.

Side note: I really enjoyed meeting and taking photos (one and two) with you at cons in Philly and New Orleans. You seemed genuinely happy to speak with your fans and not at all jaded about it (like one or two other celebrities I’ve met at such events). :-)

ClareKramer :

I am having so much fun. I’m going to have to do this again. It’s almost noon so I’m going to have to go so I can do some work on my website but I’ll try to come back later in the day and answer more of your questions, or as many as I can get to. Thank you so much. You’ve all been so wonderful and made me feel so welcome on /r/buffy! Hopefully I’ll see some of you at Comic-Con in San Diego and of course I’ll be blogging and doing podcasts on http://www.GeekNation.com so feel free to hit me up there or on Facebook or Twitter @ClareKramer or just send smoke signals. oxox

mandamoolahThe Slayer :

We’d love to have you again! Thanks again and I will see you at Comic-Con!

coolbeaNs92Caleb :

Great AMA thank you so much. Have signed up on GN and it looks awesome! Going to catch up on all the 5x5 podcasts (by the end of the day I will have watched everything :D).

miss_salacious_crumbThe Wiggins :

Oh wonderful, most awesome Clare, what are some of your favorite moments from working on Buffy? Also: you were my favorite Big Bad! So glamorous and evil. :)

ClareKramer :

Ahhhh! That’s so sweet! Of course I too think Glory was the best big bad! Hehehe. But seriously, Buffy was really interesting to come into, because as you all know, I entered in Season 5. It was kinda like transferring to a new high school for your senior year. The cast was really established and tight knit - so I was the new kid on the block. There were a lot of fun moments, but I really liked shooting the stunt work.... those days would generally be my favorite!

Kirby3Giles :

Sounds like it was such a fun show to work on! Did you do lots of your own stunts? I always think that stunts would be my favourite thing to work on too!

ClareKramer :

Well, I’m an adrenaline junkie - so I love the stunt days! Plus I personally feel that the more physically connected you can be with the character, the better the performance. And also, I’m a very physical actor. That being said, for liability reasons, we as actors are only allowed to do so much... so for example - in a wide shot you might actually see SMG and I swinging at each other. Obviously, being a wide shot, we could miss by a lot and still "sell it" as a hit or kick or punch. But when the close-ups of the scene were shot, they would replace the off-camera actor with the stunt double. Once I did punch a stunt double of SMG in the forehead, and knocked her out! She had a huge knot on her head and crew called her the "unicorn" for a while.

christycreme :

Badasss! Man, actors get to have so much fun! Most Eminent Glorificus, thank you so much for doing this AMA!

clockworklycanthropeFaith :

Badass and funny (edit: because of the nickname). "The unicorn" is now my favorite stunt story.

clockworklycanthropeFaith :

I would’ve loved to see the First emulate Glory again, just to get some more of that special brand of crazy, hell god evil! It’s too bad you didn’t get called for at least one more episode!

ClareKramer :

I totally agree! I told you, I was disappointed!

miss_salacious_crumbThe Wiggins :

Thank you so much for your response! It was wonderful to be able to have this opportunity. :)

emhig :

That settles it, I absolutely have to go rewatch season 5 now! Glamorous and evil is the best kind of villain... it’s why the Mayor was so great, too! :P

bright_ephemeraSpike[M] :

Username verified. Happy questioning!

buffyfan96 :

Hello Clare!!

I wondered what it was like doing the fight scenes for Glory?

And, who on set was just like their character, and who was least like their character?

ClareKramer :

Hi there!

I touched on the fight scenes a bit above - but I’ll say again, they were some of my favorite days! Especially towards the end of the season, as they started to let me do more advance stunts, like the ratchet shot, where NB hits Glory with a wrecking ball! That was me, folks.

Who was most like there character... maybe ASH as Giles? I gotta think on that one! :)

clockworklycanthropeFaith :

Nick Brendon seems so Xanderish to me. They seem like they have a similar sense of goofy humor.

buffyfan96 :

That’s what I thought too!

dampierpFoamy! :

Mad respect. You took that wrecking ball like a champ :)

clockworklycanthropeFaith :

She really did! I had to go watch the scene again, after reading this. Honestly, I just watched the whole episode.

coolbeaNs92Caleb :

About playing Glory-

• Did you draw any inspiration for playing the character Glory? I mean, someone saying “your a God who’s looking for a mystical key thousands of years old, GO!” must of been hard to feel your way around and work out how you were going to play that character, right?

• Was it fun playing a character who was so completely unhinged? I mean, Glory is constantly in the brink of insanity due to being trapped in human form. Did you manage to let loose and act a little wild like most would like to do but often cant?

• Was it strange playing someone who was so physically dominating with the powers of a God, and yet be wearing tight cut dresses and underwear all the time? Most directors/creators would of gone with the traditional robes or gowns or something royal. I guess it must of been fun being able to wear loose clothing on set, like wearing your own cloths at work day.

• As season five progresses we learn about Glory’s human balancing ball Ben. What was the process that went on. Did you and Charlie Webber have to act together in those scenes when the change happened, or was it just all CGI so no interaction was needed.

About Buffy in general

• Do you keep in touch with anyone from the show?

• Do you ever watch any Buffy episodes or is it to weird?

• What is it like having only really been on a show for one season, yet having such a big impact and remembrance? The fact that twelve years later I’m just as excited about the show as I was when I was five-six and watching it live. It must feel pretty cool to be a part of something that’s going to live on throughout the ages.

• If you could change anything about your time on Buffy, what would it be, if anything?

I’d just like to say a massive thanks for taking the time to look/answer my questions. You really were one of my favourite baddies from the show and did such an amazing job in the show. The show is without a doubt the best thing I’ve ever seen in my life and thank you for being a part of that and giving me something that really helped me through some darks times. Your performance will live on throughout the ages and I really hope it comes across how much it means to me for you to do this AMA. I wish you all the best in your future endeavours. And I’ll leave on one of my favourite Glory quotes - "Tell me where the key is, or I’m going bowling"

ClareKramer :

Firstly - thank you so very much for taking the time to come up with such thoughtful questions! This board has been amazing so far!

Secondly - let me answer a few and then I’ll come back so I can try to get to everyone! Hope that’s okay...

Inspiration for play a God.... here’s the crazy thing - I didn’t know I was playing a God until I got that episode! I kid you not!!!! I probably would have arced the character a bit differently had I know she was a God... so in some strange was I’m really glad I didn’t have that piece of information, because it would have affected Glory differently. And I kinda like how she turned out!

Yes, unhinged she was! And yes, I definitely was able to "vent" some of my real life frustrations through going to work. Those days were fun for me! A bit of a catharsis!

emhig :

I met you at Dragon Con a few years ago and you were SO NICE. Seriously. So nice. How do you do it? My dad and I go each year and people watch and check out what our favorite celebs are up to, and there are a lot of people that seem to resent being there. And I totally get it in a way, some fans are craaaazy, but man there are some grumps who are being paid the big bucks to just hang around and be friendly. You have always been genuinely kind and funny and cool and my favorite person to see. You must have some secret!

Also a friend saw you had signed my Bring It On DVD and they said they ran into you ages ago and again you were super nice. So thank you, because everyone seems to have awesome memories whenever they are lucky enough to meet you :)

ClareKramer :

Oh my gosh - I’m blushing!!!! I hope to see you again soon. I really do enjoy the time I get to spend at conventions.... otherwise why go?!

emhig :

Haha very true, good point! I’ll definitely stop by next time you’re in Atlanta :) Thank for doing this AMA, you’re already super great about responding to stuff on Twitter but it’s cool to see even more in-depth answers.

fysuEthan Rayne :

So excited you are doing this!

I was curious, how did the show approach you to make a cameo in the 7th season? Did Joss call you guys personally? And were there any hold outs? Because getting all the Big Bads to come back was awesome and really set the stage for the whole season.

And secondly...there is a lot of fan backlash against Dawn. Many fans don’t like her. During season 5 of filming, did any on the show (cast or crew) ever sense that Dawn might be a character fans would not enjoy?

ClareKramer :

Hey! Okay - the whole season 7 thing went down like this.... I got a call, or more accurately, my manager got a call, that Buffy was looking to have Glory come back. Of course I was ecstatic, because Buffy was an amazing job, and Glory was an amazing character... blah, blah, blah. We all know that! So again, I don’t really think the writers knew where they were going with the season so they procured all the bads - and then changed their minds! I kept waiting for my call to come back... but it never came!

unmoderated :

I can totally hear your voice when reading this.

ClareKramer :

RE the Dawn backlash - yes. I think there was an innate feeling that the character was not being well received. That being said, of course it had nothing to do with Michelle T... and no one ever verbalized the grumblings... curious what YOU all thought of the character’s entrance?

fysuEthan Rayne :

It’s weird. Most fans really love season 5, and where the show went. And none of it could work without Dawn. So even the people who don’t like her must realize how important she was to the show.

And I’ve never heard fans talk poorly of Michelle. Just Dawn herself. I’ve always felt Dawn was written to be "a little annoying", because Buffy, would’ve found her annoying (as all big sisters feel about little sisters), and the show is often coming from Buffy’s perspective. So the character just helped us relate to Buffy more.

dampierpFoamy! :

I thought Dawn had a great introduction to the show: everyone I was watching it with was like "Why isn’t anyone freaking out about this sister thing??" I thought it was pretty brilliant how they incorporated her into the story and as such an integral part of your story.

I have thought long and hard about the Dawn backlash, and I think a big part of it was that fans had grown up with the central cast of characters, and in some ways had matured past the high school angsty stage to a much more serious life-problems stage (that and the fact that Buffy was no match for Glory upped the ante a lot). I think Michelle did a great job with the role, but it was a little disorienting to deal with some of the teenage problems that were already covered in seasons 1 and 2 (and 3). Just my thoughts!

snakebehindme :

I’m one of the apparent minority who really liked the character of Dawn. Yes, she did have a tendency to be kind of annoying/frustrating at times, but to me that was exactly the intention - she was supposed to be the annoying little sister that you still love and care for. I thought her plot arc was perfect, and I really liked her addition to the core cast for the remainder of the series.

I like to contrast my opinion of Dawn with how I feel about the characters of Kennedy from Season 7, and Connor from Angel. To me, those characters were very annoying despite the intention of how they were written, whereas Dawn was annoying because of it. Huge difference.

JohnSmallBerries :

I liked Dawn, but it drove me crazy that the writers wrote her like a much younger girl. She was about the same age as Buffy, Xander, and Willow were at the start of the show, but you’d never know it from many of her lines.

tyrell456 :

I think you hit it on the head. Michelle Trachtenberg was fantastic, no one denies that. But they wrote Dawn as if she were 12 (especially in Season 6). Buffy, Xander, and Willow started the show at about the age Dawn was introduced but were written as much more mature and capable than Dawn was until about the last ten episodes of the series.

ComingUpMilhouseThe Bunny :

I agree completely. I always understood why Dawn was screaming and ranting but Connor, oh I wanted to slap that kid.

rachiedoubt :

Haha, once Connor came along, the annoyance I felt for Dawn was almost endearing. xD

clockworklycanthropeFaith :

Although she initially bothered me, I think Dawn was an important character for Buffy’s growth from a child into an adult (which was, after all, a huge theme of the series). It gave her an opportunity to take on some real world responsibilities on top of her supernatural ones. Whether or not people liked Dawn, I think many can agree that she played an important role and allowed the series to go in a direction it ultimately needed to go in.

snthomsonFray :

Dawn came at the right time for me. I was actually starting to drift from Buffy as a character. I didn’t relate to her much or even really care about her; I continued to watch the show for the supporting characters instead. Dawn came in and drove me crazy; hated her at first; but as Buffy had to "deal" with her, I got closer to Buffy. Then Dawn started to grow on me, especially with being so supportive of Willow and Tara (at that time teens that age in the real world were not as accepting). So I thought overall Dawn was a great addition.

dampierpFoamy! :

You know, that’s a great point about being supportive of Willow and Tara. I was just rewatching the opening eps of season 6, and the way she takes care of Buffy right after she comes back are really touching :)

unmoderated :

The first time I was like WAT

Then some of the rumblings from the previous seasons made some sense.

snthomsonFray :

If I gave you an elephant where would you hide it?

ClareKramer :

If I told you it wouldn’t be hidden anymore, would it? :)

snthomsonFray :

Hahahaha, awesome.

TomLeath :

Hi Clare! Looking forward to seeing you next month! How did your role as Glory prepare you for future roles?

ClareKramer :

Hi!

Glory did me a great service as an actor.... Firstly Buffy in general was my first television job, so I got to learn the ins and outs of working on TV from SMG, who is a master. I was like a sponge absorbing all the info I could! Secondly, the character Glory, as you guys know, has a certain cadence to her voice and language, so I developed a unique process for memorization that still serves me today. Hope that answers your question!

dampierpFoamy! :

Hello Ms. Kramer! I just wanted to thank you for doing this AMA; the fact that you directly approached fans says a whole lot. I have a bunch of different things I want to say and ask, but I thought I should put them in a numbered list to make them look official:

What were your fondest memories of working on Buffy? How about least enjoyable?

A lot of your screen time was with your heavily make-upped minions; did you ever want to get some demon-y make up, or were you happier just being, well, god-like?

Were you a Buffy fan before you got the role? Did you follow the show after season 5?

I loved Gravedancers- it scared the pants off of me and my friends. Are you a horror movie buff? Any favorites?

I read somewhere that you are a vegetarian! I’ve been one for about five years now, and just thought I should ask what inspired you to start?

I also read about a charity you are putting together? Care to fill us in on some of the details of that?

Mainly though, I just want to say thank you. You’re so cool for doing this!

Trickasaurus-Rex :

Hello! Thank you so much for doing this AMA.

So, Joss Whedon seems like a very fun and interesting person. Do you have any especially memorable moments with him maybe talking about the show or your character, or maybe something completely random?

ClareKramer :

I just saw Joss this past Halloween at ED’s party, and we couldn’t stop laughing at something, and at this very moment I’m blanking on what that something even was.... but to answer your question, it was super fun to see him outside of a work environment, relaxing. Oh, I think we were laughing because neither of us were in costume, and pretty much everyone else there was decked out in some amazing garb....

LarsPWatcher :

ED? Eliza Dushku or Erectile Dysfunction?

Intriguing either way...

PhoneySoprano :

Can you share any funny/interesting on set stories?

ClareKramer :

Okay I’m not trying to hold out on funny set stories... I’m thinking on this one! Stay tuned....

PhoneySoprano :

I shall!

ohheylane :

First off I want to say you are my favorite Buffy villain, chic and crazy and just awesome! But my friends and I always wonder about this Buffy and Bring it On connection:Whitney (a Cordette), Missy (faith), and yourself were all on Buffy and in the movie Bring it On. On either set did you guys ever discuss the connection or did Eliza give you any advice for working on the Buffy set, ect?

ClareKramer :

Hi! Thanks for counting me your favorite! :)

I know - there is this funny Bring It On/Buffy connection! Trust me, everyone asks me if ED got me on Buffy... maybe she put in the good word for me but I had to audition none-the-less! After I got the job, ED did give me a bit of advice, not just about Buffy, but about acting in general. The basic concept of her advice was to not read reviews... that some would praise my performances... and some would dismiss or hate my performance... and to pay attention to neither of those thing. If I was being a true-to-myself actor, then that’s all that mattered. I think, in retrospect, what she was saying, was that if you try to mold your performances based of critics, feedback and reviews... you’re not really giving a genuine creation. Does that make sense?

KrystalPistol :

Eliza sounds like a stand-up friend to have!

TutensteinThe Brie Cat :

I read somewhere once that you keep a diary of all of your characters. I’m not sure if that’s true, but if so what was Glory’s like and is it available anywhere to read?

ClareKramer :

Hi! Not so much a diary, per say - but more of notes in my scripts to keep track of where the character was at different moments, emotionally. The challenge of TV is being able to arc a character over the course of a season, and not reach heightened emotions too soon... keeping a detailed "log" (so to speak) helps me as an actor create the best performance, and most realistic emotions. I do still have all my scripts (from not just Buffy, but all my projects) but I think my notes may be too personal to share! Or more embarrassing than personal!

MicheleSobo :

If you ever wanted, I would happily donate money to a charity of your choosing for one of your Buffy scripts =)

buffyfan96 :

Also, what was it like having your own minions? Did you get pretty close to all of them?

ClareKramer :

Yes! Kevin Weisman who played Dreg (of course he went on to Alias) was especially memorable. I actually didn’t know what the heck he looked like until near the end of the season. He came up to me at craft services, said "hi", and I though "who is this guy? I’ve never seen him around here before..." Suddenly it dawned on me that it was Dreg! Those poor minions had such a time with the make-up. They were in 2 hours before everyone else and had to stay an hour later getting it removed.

MicheleSobo :

I loved Kevin Weisman on Alias! I never knew he was one of the minions! =) Thanks for sharing Clare.

Demeter003 :

I had NO clue that he played Dreg. I LOVE him on Alias. I am going to have to watch season 5 and look out for that.

Ps: You already finished the AMA, I caught it late but wanted to say thanks! Love you character on the show. Def my favorite baddie. :)

iamglory :

I HAD NO IDEA!! But I see it now!!!

focus-pocus :

Hey, Clare. Thanks for doing this. I love how the internet has become such a good venue for actors and various other artists to communicate with fans, and it’s great that you’re a part of it. I just finished the whole series, and I had a few questions:

All the names that the minions came up with when addressing you: all scripted, or was there some improv?

I’ve always imagined it being difficult to become a regular part of a show with the main cast that is already to tightly knit. Were there any challenges in becoming part of the Buffy family, so to speak?

Are you working on any particularly epic or exciting projects that we should be aware of (i.e. what’s new)?

ClareKramer :

Hi! Yes, the internet is amazing! Sometimes the anonymity of it all can be scary - but you guys here are awesome!

All the minion stuff was scripted. We did have some good laughs whilst filming that minion/Glory scenes! The writers definitely had fun with the adjectives!!!

It was a bit of a challenge. I said prior that it was like transferring to a new HS right before your senior year. BUT thankfully all the other actors were awesome and welcoming! The hardest part though was the simple fact that many of my scenes were with the minions, MT or SMG only, so it took a while for me to actually get to know the other cast members.

Epic, maybe - but exciting, definitely! LOL! Mega Spider, http://www.geeknation.com, Five by Five and my son Hart Martin Rea Keathley!

focus-pocus :

Thanks again! That’s great, I’ll definitely look into some of that stuff. Mega Spider sounds intriguing. Hope all’s well.

mikeramey1 :

Hi Clare, thanks for doing this. What is the funniest thing that happened while you were working on Buffy?

ClareKramer :

Hi! Funniest thing on Buffy... well, actually it was a pretty serious set, believe it or not! Long hours and the main cast had to work so very much... I’ll think on this one though. To be continued....

mikeramey1 :

Nice tease. Ever work in news?

MicheleSobo :

Clare had said in an interview one of her dresses ripped off on set....I just can not imagine. Did any of your cast members have witty comments after that?

ClareKramer :

Hi! Yes, in the hospital stuff with Dawn, etc., the red silk dress I was wearing had a "malfunction" on the strap, if you will! My dress totally came down on one side and of course for some bizarre reason my bra was sewn in so that came down too! I was mortified, and of course there were three cameras pointed on me... recording. And this was in the days of film not video, so it wasn’t as simple as pressing rewind to erase the footage, although I was assured it was erased! (yea, right!) Anyway, it was only MT on set with me at the time, so thankfully I wasn’t harassed too much!

absolx :

Thanks so much for doing this! Who was your favourite actor/actress to work with and why?

ClareKramer :

Hi! Fav from Buffy or in general? From Buffy, as much as I LOVE all the cast, SMG was my favorite - because I learned so very much from her. Outside of Buffy - I don’t know.... maybe Roger Avery on Rules of Attraction... or RIP Brad Renfro.... On the Buffy/Angel convention circuit I also LOVED getting to know Andy Hallett. I miss him!

rachiedoubt :

Awww, Andy. :( He was/is amazing.

Sid_ArthurDawn :

Hi Clare. First of all, stoked that you’re doing this it’s really cool of you. I guess it has to be asked, How did you find out about us? We’re a relatively small subreddit on a pretty big site and most people will do AMA’s in the actual AMA subreddit (not that I’m complaining). Also Buffy tends to have pretty dedicated fans are you ever surprised/impressed/whatever at how loyal they are?

P.S Great to see the GeekNation website finally up and running :)

ClareKramer :

Thank you! Fun-Cooker and cjarabia told me about you guys. Honestly, I think you are all of superior intellect to me, as the site is crazy looking! But then I did notice a few twitters about Reddit, and then I started following the main Reddit twitter... and I guess the rest is history!

As far as the Buffy fans - I am always surprised/impressed and extremely grateful! I really hit the jackpot with being cast on Buffy. I was young, and at the time probably didn’t fully appreciate the opportunity... I do now!

And THANK YOU RE GeekNation. Phew! We made it!

nessarose :

You said in an answer to another question that you didn’t realize you were playing a god until that episode was being filmed. Did you try to guess what Glory was before that, and what did you think she was? Was there a backstory in your head?

While I’m on that subject, did you ever create a backstory (beyond what the show told the audience) for Glory after you found out what she was? We really don’t know much about her life as a god, so I’m curious if you (and/or Joss) came up with details we don’t know.

P.S. I met you a few years ago at Philly’s Comic Con, and you were so nice to me. I hope you have fun in San Diego!

ClareKramer :

Hi! Yes, I actually thought Glory and Ben were twins! How funny is that?! I didn’t really try and guess anything, because I didn’t expect to have such a dramatic turn as being proclaimed a God. However, when I actually did get that episode and read the script - a light bulb went off in my head and I was like "Oh! That explains things!"

As far a backstory for Glory - I just innately knew she was fabulous! It was more of an understanding of the character than a creating of specific facts, if that makes sense.

Thanks RE SDCC! Are you coming?

nessarose :

Thanks for answering!

No, I’m stuck on the East Coast. Hopefully one year though!

SlayersScythe :

I just wanted to thank you for coming on here and answering all our questions! We fans of buffy are dedicated and your work answering questions here is really appreciated. Also, I loved your performance on Buffy! As everyone here does!

ClareKramer :

Ahhhh - thank you. I hope I’m doing a good job for you guys! :)

riskyplissken :

So what kind of stuff have you been up to now? And I thought you were great on House!

ClareKramer :

Hahaha! Wasn’t that a funny part on House - a paralyzed yogi with scurvy! I was hoping for a more dramatic illness, but hey. LOL.

What am I up to now... let’s see... I have a movie coming out called Mega Spider, directed by Mike Mendez, who also directed the movie I was in, Gravedancers. Greg Grunberg plays my romantic interest - and the movie is a cross between Ghostbusters and Cloverfield... so it should be pretty fun!

I also started http://www.GeekNation.com - and a podcast, Five by Five, where I’ve managed to wrangle most of the Buffy/Angel cast to come in for episodes. It’s relatively new - and I LOVE it.

And oh yeah, I just had my third child 3 months ago... a boy this time!

riskyplissken :

That’s wonderful! Congratulations on the baby and the movie! I’m gonna have to give Geeknation a look and Five by Five a listen.

And you have very clearly just made my week. So, thank you very much for that. Good luck with everything!

snthomsonFray :

Hey hon, that last question was just me being silly as usual. Great to see you on here, thanks for doing this and for always having been amazing to me. Real question: When you were little what did you want to be?

ClareKramer :

Hey sister! Nice to see you out of twitter-verse & GN world! You’re a sweetie!

What did I want to be when I was little? Always an artist, but actually I thought I was going to be a ballet dancer... I LOVED, LOVED, LOVED dancing and went to classes 5 days a week. Only when I went to NYU did I decide to pursue acting. Now I have to lobby for a spot on DWTS! I swear, I would win!

snthomsonFray :

I’ll bet you would, judging by BIO and Fresh Chances ;P Thanks again.

wendelgee2 :

Were there ever any inter-cast romances/flings that your were aware of? (Besides Alyson and Alexis, of course.)

Also, do you have any thoughts on the Buffy Sing-a-longs being cancelled? Ever been to one?

ClareKramer :

I didn’t know of any romances AT THE TIME!!!!!! Since, I’ve been educated as to what was happening right under my nose... and that’s all can say on that subject! ;)

As far as the Sing-a-long cancellations... I think it sucks for those who enjoyed them! I’ve personally never been to one - but I have been to Rocky Horror PS, which of course I love! Have you guys thought about reviving the sing-a-longs on a smaller scale?

trumpet_23 :

Did you watch any Buffy besides your own season? If so, who is your favorite (non-Glory) character?

Also, it seems like working on Buffy would’ve been a blast. Who was the most fun to work with on set?

ClareKramer :

Hi! I actually had only seen a few Buffy episodes prior to being cast - and a cross-over episode where ED when to Angel. When I got cast I tried to catch up to get a general feel for the tone of the show. I was pleasantly surprised!

Buffy was a blast... I’ll have to think of my fav. character!

tama_gotchi :

What a legend for doing this!!

There was a "Buffyfest" in Dublin (Ireland) a few weeks ago. I dressed as Glory!! Thanks for giving me a character to go as (Buffy/Willow/Cordy would be too obvious).

My questions;

Were you a fan of the show before you auditioned? If so, did that affect your audition in any way. i.e if you had an idea of "the buffyverse" did you have an idea of what Joss and the writers might be looking for?

WHAT was it like working with the Joss Whedon? Was he as cool on-set as I imagine him to be, or was he a bit "stricter" (can’t think of a better word) because it was his show?

Lucsly :

For those interested in verification: she tweeted about it.

MicheleSobo :

and she posted she was doing the AMA on GeekNation.com and her facebook page =)

Lucsly :

Ah, didn’t know that. Thanks for adding the info!

Tailas :

Hello Clare, thanks very much for doing this AMA.

My question might be kind of boring, but a lot of the questions I wanted to ask have been asked already, so I’ll ask this one:

Are there any upcoming tv shows or movies that you’ll be working in?

Second question: What kind of music/bands are you into these days?

P.S. - You’re awesome! Keep up the good work!

eosiecki :

Hi Clare! enjoying your 5x5 podcasts btw. So can you fill us in on your upcoming Buffy related convention appearances?

Empath1999 :

Who do you think would win in a fight? Glory or Ben?

TheDoctorIsDying :

Hey Clare! Like everyone, you were my favourite big bad. Batshit insanity is so much fun to watch lol

My question is less to do with the show. I was just wondering what some of your favourite shows are?

Are you into genre stuff or more into the medical/cop drama type of TV?

Thanks for taking the time to do this!

ClareKramer :

Hey! Yes, batshit insanity was amazingly fun!

Here’s what I’m loving on TV right now: GoT of course, Girls, Newsroom, Veep (basically all HBO!), Homeland I’m catching up on, True Blood I’m catching up on, American Horror Story I can’t wait for the new season... Still love but kinda dropped off The Office, Parks and Rec, Community, and OH LOVE Walking Dead! And gonna rewatch Spartacus this summer!

clockworklycanthropeFaith :

Yes! I love "Game of Thrones," "True Blood," "Walking Dead," and "Community." I sort of dropped out on "The Office," too. I’ve never seen "American Horror Story," but I’ve heard good things. I’ll have to check it out.

Edit: Plus, the "American Horror Story" house was in an episode ("Fear Itself") of "Buffy."

rachiedoubt :

Ooooh, I did not know that about the AHS house! Awesome.

Kirby3Giles :

Hey! On behalf of everybody here I just wanted to say thank you for doing this for us it really is a privilege :D

Once you finished as Glory on Buffy did you take any parts of the set or props with you as a reminder of your time on the show?

clockworklycanthropeFaith :

I know from a recently attended con panel that she got to keep some of Glory’s underwear!

Cpt_kickass :

You were probably my favorite Buffy villain so I was wondering if you had to pick a Buffy villain other than yourself as your favorite which one would it be and why? Also who is your favorite character in general in the show?

hanson_cole :

Being a lovely and kind person in reality, from what secret store did your emotional motivation come from to play the turbulently evil and selfish "Glory" with such poignancy? Is there any specific person or classic character you consciously drew from to make that happen?

ClareKramer :

Hi! Again, you guys flatter. I’m not really that nice! But seriously, if you keep it hush, hush... I’ll let you in on a secret....

Watch "The Shining" - you may see an inspirational character for Glory in there! ;)

sound-and-fury :

Thank you so much for doing this AMA!! You must have known it was my anniversary, huh? :) As lots of other people have said, you were my favorite Big Bad on the show. You had so much energy in the role and I honestly had no clue how Buffy was going to defeat a GOD! It was amazing writing and acting all around. It’s super awesome of you for taking time out of your schedule to answer questions for fans!

But anyway.. Questions!

Do you still hang out with anyone from the cast regularly? If so, you should tell them about our little community too so we can have more AMA’s!

Not counting the season you were in, what was your favorite season of the show?

Any other projects coming up that we should look forward to? Or conventions other than San Diego (Closer to Alabama, lol.. A girl can dream, right)

Once again, thanks for making this an even more awesome day! <3

TutensteinThe Brie Cat :

What is your favorite book or series?

dorv :

Big fan of your work on Buffy, and am looking forward to the Panel at SDCC.

Which current TV dramas would you like to be working on most?

Bell12754 :

Hi Clare!

1) Out of all the artistically impressive shows on tv right now (Breaking Bad, Mad Men, Girls, Game of Thrones etc) which would you most like a role in and why?

2) Are there any historical figures you’re dying to play?

borateen :

What was your reaction when you realized how big in scope the Buffy fan community was, and what was your first Convention like?

Also, thanks for taking the time out of your day to do this! :-)

hanson_cole :

I watched a few of your Take-5 interviews from Philly this morning. Glad the GeekNation is taking off for you! And the interviews are so wonderful. I love that you would ask everyone everyday questions like what their favorite sushi roll is. I caught this bit about the best Sushi Take Out from the Valley. But did I miss what YOUR FAVORITE Sushi Roll is?

twoforjoyof the Deathwok Clan :

What was being on a set with Joss Whedon like? Can you describe his directing style?

Also, that poster is awesome!

bhara99 :

Hey Clare, thanks so much for doing this. I’ve not yet read all the other awesome questions so this may have been asked. Did you have any input into your amazing character and if so what did you influence?

NyctophobicParanoid :

First of all, thank you for playing one of my all-time favorite villains as an easily-impressionable child. You rocked it, and your performance in the season is how I’ve gotten quite a few people into the series.

I’ve always wondered, though - going from your IMDB, you haven’t really done any roles quite like this. Did you enjoy something more on the wacky side of things? Was it cool to get into something with such a dedicated (and nerdy) fandom like this, or overwhelming?

ClareKramer :

Hi! Thanks so much! I would love all my characters to have as much depth as Glory, or lack of depth, if you will (however you see it!) - but moreover I love acting and creating. When given a role, I’ll always try and make the character as unique and dynamic as possible, within the confines of the script. I’d always rather play the "wacky" than the "girlfriend" role.... makes life more interesting! :)

As far as the fandom - that has been and continues to be an amazing aside from Glory. I really am spoiled by you guys!

brian5k :

Hi Clare. Obviously loved your work on Buffy, but I’m wondering about the genesis of geeknation.com and where you see it going. I also didn’t notice any bumpy headed minions among the staff; what gives with that? And most of all, thanks for the memories from season 5.

ClareKramer :

Hi! Thank you so much! Hahaha... I had to read the bumpy headed line 2x...

yes... GN was a chance for my husband and I to create an outlet for ourselves and other artists OUTSIDE of the studio system. We create, write, direct, act, produce, design and all around live and breath GN.... it’s in it’s early stages but I’m really proud of the site, where it is, and where it’s going. One think I’ve always responded to within the genre community is the support and acceptance of other... as such, "Geek" to GN is defined not the way "hollywood" labels a demographic, but as anyone who is passionate about all aspects of entertainment - and really life in general. Make sense?

clockworklycanthropeFaith :

You have me convinced. I’m listening to the Five by Five podcast with Tom Lenk, right now. :-D

W-w-guybrush-do :

Thanks so much for coming to talk to us! I’m a recent Buffy fanatic and I’m a little slow on actors names but as soon as I saw Glory I knew you were to be remembered! I can’t wait to go to a con and hopefully meet some of the cast (especially you!) I’m enjoying reading all of these serious questions, but let’s get down to business:

Cats or dogs?

ClareKramer :

Ha! Well I’m an equal opportunist! Had a German Shepard growing up, Karen (don’t laugh!) - and a cat, Muffin. Then in college I had two cats, Zoey and Waker. Now I’m sans pets (aside from our goldfish, Goldy, which I recently relocated to Gavin’s preschool) - but I’ve really been wanting a wiener dog! Is that wrong?!

snthomsonFray :

Is the name of the goldfish Goldy a shout out to Men in Tights or just a coincidence? Go for the Dachsund, they are awesome and I am sure there are some at a shelter near you that wouldn’t mind being rescued! :)

Symphonic_Nightmare :

Thanks for helping to bring Glory to life for us all! Since that time, what has been your favorite role or job and why?

Also, I’m tickled to discover that you’re an adrenaline junky. I’ve never considered acting myself, but I always thought the best part about it would be getting paid to do and learn all the crazy things I’ve thought about doing in my life.

ClareKramer :

Hi! Wow, favorite character since playing Glory.... hmmmm... well, I’ll tell you the character most opposite Glory was in the movie Endure where I played a kidnapped victim. Favorite... I’ll have to think on that!

And you are exactly right - one of the major perks of acting is getting to experience all the sports, hobbies and even travel locations you may never get to in "real" life! As you know, Buffy specifically has taken me around the world and back! And for the film Skulls, I got to learn to scuba dive.

Symphonic_Nightmare :

Yeah, those are pretty polar opposites! I’m glad that you don’t seem to have suffered from type-casting in your career. I’ll watch back here if you end up coming up with a favorite and have time to relate.

Scuba diving. That’s on the list. I’ve got to work that into the schedule soon. Curse you, DayJob!

Thanks for taking the time to answer our questions here!

Natlalie :

Hey! I want to start of by saying I loved glory as a character and I loved your portrayal of her. I have three questions for you.

How was it playing a someone so chaotic crazy? It seems like a lot of fun to me. How was the chemistry on the Buffy set? I really like you in the acting roles I’ve seen(Buffy and Bring it on). But if you had to chose one of your favorite roles, which would it be?

PerryDigital :

I’m such a massive fan of all things Joss, especially Buffy. I thought you were fantastic in your arc. Definitely my favourite Big Bad! Like a bipolar supergodess with entitlement issues. Oh yeah a question!

I’d just like some info on what our man Joss is like to be around please :)

(Also such a fantastic idea bringing a signed poster, as this place is filled with Buffy fanatics somebody will certainly have their day made so thank you!)

dollar_on_10 :

How much do you get for residual checks from Buffy?

mandamoolahThe Slayer :

I’m still in shock that it’s really you! We are so incredibly honored :)

Were the "Ben is Glory??" jokes prevalent off-set?

Are you sick of the Ben/Glory jokes yet?

Were you a fan of the show (or seen it at all) before working on it?

Which episode was the most fun or most emotional for you to shoot?

What is the weirdest/craziest fan reaction you’ve gotten (besides the screaming and fan-girl-dancing which I am currently not doing... maybe just a little)?

Again, I just want to say I’m a huge fan and love reading geeknation.

Guyinthehall8 :

What would you have loved to have your character do on the show that never got to happen?

the_sleepy_sloth :

Oh no, I`m too late...Anyways, if you come back, what would you say the funniest thing was that happened on set (funniest blooper)? p.s. Favorite character, O great Glorificus one

eccentricallyenglish :

Think I’m too late, just wanted to say you’re my favourite buffy villain! Were you keen to do stunts? Was it weird coming back briefly to be the first in season 7?

brenodactyl :

Hey Clare!

Has there ever been another project that Joss has done, that you wish you could have been apart of?

It’s pretty cool you’re doing this for your fans :D Thanks! Take care!

widarlein :

Is it 12pm PT yet?

time zones, time zones....

BigGreenYamoThe Mayor :

How long were you on set for "The Rules of Attraction" and what was that experience like? That was quite the ensemble cast.

Blasttastic :

Hi Clare first of all I got to say you wished me a Happy Birthday on Twitter once, Thanks for that it made my day. My question is:

Are you likely to be working with Joss Whedon again in future? Movies or TV I’m sure we’d all love to see it.

candrie :

Clare I gotta say, you are one of my Fav big bads (I’m sure you hear that a lot) - So thank you for that - you were a delightfully evil I loved it.

So I have to ask Joss is famous (infamous) for having actors follow him from project to project, are there any plans for you (or Ben ;-) to do a future project with Joss (or any of the gang really?

icaneatastar :

Do you read the comics? Who has the biggest chance of making out with Glory: Angel, Spike, or Faith?

Kyoti :

Buffy was the cornerstone of my childhood, Buffy (and other strong female characters from the show) was my ass-kickin’, strong female role model!

Who were your role models growing up?

TesatireInca Mummy Girl :

Clare, first of all, thank you for being my favorite hated character on the show. I hated the character because she was bad and she was my favorite because you portrayed her so well that I actually couldn’t stand her. My dad always told me that if you feel strongly for any character on a tv show that you should have great respect for the actor that made you feel that way. So, thank you.

Second of all, Was there ever an outfit on the show that you wanted to steal from the set? Glory always had the most gorgeous shoes and dresses.

Lastly, What is your favorite scene in Buffy? All of us have one, it doesn’t have to be Glory related. I am just curious now :-)

tyonline :

I read you keep a ’character diary’ each time you film. Any chance of releasing glory’s inner most twisted thoughts?

legjasmini :

Hi Clare! I’m currently rewatching the whole series and Glroyjust entered! Your character always freaked me out because you were able to display that chaotic insanity and pure sociopathy that Glory is so well known for. Oddly enough, I study murders and was wondering you might have taken any direction from any well known serial killers?

Sendmesomewherenew :

Is Joss Wheadon REALLY is cool as he seems on TV?

71ffy :

Hello! Thank you for doing this AMA! :D

Glory was one of my favorite BtVS bad guys. Which makes me wonder, what is your favorite BtVS bad guy? (Yourself not included. ;D)

traveler89 :

wow amazing that you are doing this, Glory was an amazing villain. Any questions i had have already been answered but just wanted to say what a great job you did. some of my favourites were when Glory got really crazy towards the end and the whole turning into Ben thing. i bet it was amazing to work with Joss , interesting to read that you didnt know were the story was going till you got the scripts each day

londoncolson :

Hi, I just have one question...how was being on the show?

EightEminus :

I literally started watching Buffy today so I’ve only seen two episodes... I know, I know, I don’t know where I’ve been either. I’m just really, really excited!

conorv93 :

Just wanted to say, you’re awesome

MissAwesomeSocks :

How did you get into acting and how did you find out about auditions for Buffy the Vampire Slayee?

Btw I’m a huge fan!

btvsrcks :

Thanks Claire!!!! Interesting read!

watsoned :

I’m late with this and doubt you’ll see it, but Glory was always one of my favourite Big Bads on the show! She was, in so many ways, so different from the others they’d had to face.

PsychosonicVi :

Thanks for doing this AMA, and I’m sorry I’m late to the party I don’t expect you to reply. Stupid Australian timezones. Anyway my question is, what do you see in yourself that is in Glory?

BitterOldBastard :

Glory reminded me of the Greek gods with all their shallow spoiled human behavior.

Interesting to read you were as surprised as we were...

BitterOldBastard :

Sorry for laughing when you were hit by a truck. The thought of the scene still brings forth a smile:)

Loki’s fate by the Hulk reminded me of that.

HabsBiznatch :

DARN! I think I missed it!!

Just wanted to say that you are probably my favourite villain from the show! Loved how you portrayed Glory!! :D

iamglory :

I am so unhappy I missed this!! so unhappy!!! I mean...look at my screen name! You are perfection!

ClareKramer :

Thank you! We will do another one soon!

clockworklycanthropeFaith :

Thank you so much for including me in your "thank you" list. I’m pumped! Can I just say that this has to be my favorite AMA ever? :-)

gwithyen :

What made you have such a following was it your good looks or the way you portrayed the Joss Whedon character in such fine fashion?

ClareKramer :

Hahaha! You flatter. Thank you! :)

snthomsonFray :

In case you need more questions (doubtful, but hey I got your back)... IMPORTANT question... How do they get the deer to cross at that yellow road sign?

ClareKramer :

I think a tasty snack! Bribery works well with animals - and children!