The Night Court reboot, created by Dan Rubin, has been a huge hit with both long-time fans and new viewers. This fresh take on Reinhold Weege's original concept introduces a new set of characters while still maintaining its own unique identity. One of the main cast members in the 2023 show is India de Beaufort, a nominee for the BTVA awards, who portrays Olivia Moore, the latest district attorney in Manhattan Night Court.
Beaufort appears in all 26 episodes of the series and is optimistic about the possibility of Night Court being renewed for a third season by the network. She is best known for her roles in popular projects like Kevin (Probably) Saves the World, One Day at a Time, Veep, and One Tree Hill. In addition to her onscreen work, Beaufort is also a skilled voice actor, lending her voice to multiple characters in All Hail King Julien's 66 episodes.
Night Court Season 2 Explores A More Vulnerable Side Of India De Beaufort's Character
India de Beaufort recently sat down with Screen Rant to chat about her character, Olivia, and how she evolves throughout the series. One of the most surprising storylines in Season 2 is Olivia's unexpected love triangle with Pellino and Carnes.
Melissa Rauch as Abby Stone grabbing India de Beaufort as Olivia in Night Court 206. - Night Court Season 2 Explores A More Vulnerable Side Of India De Beaufort's Character
When you first read the pilot script, what were your initial thoughts compared to how you feel about Olivia two seasons later?
India de Beaufort: I joined the show as a recast, not part of the original pilot. My first introduction to Olivia was through audition sides, which didn't make it to the final show. Despite that, I quickly grasped her character - someone who only used the word "friend" to benefit herself, lacking genuine connections.
Initially, Olivia was guarded and avoided personal interactions. However, it's heartwarming to see her now embracing her work family, particularly Gurgs. He is probably the closest thing she has to a real friend, while still holding onto her ambitions and drive to succeed. We maintain Olivia's uniqueness while allowing her to form deeper connections with the other characters.
Abby and Olivia are quite different from each other, which is what makes their friendship special. What do you think about how their relationship has grown over time?
India de Beaufort shares that she has cherished the sweet moments between Olivia and Abby, especially because she admires Melissa a lot. Spending more time with Melissa on set has been a delightful experience for her. Working together in scenes allows them to bond more, and being with Melissa is one of the highlights of her job.
We've also seen a softer side to Olivia this season. When the doorman dies, we realize that she truly did lose a connection. How was exploring that part of her?
India de Beaufort: It was a new challenge for me. I've been on many one-hour shows where a character experiences loss or emotional struggles, so connecting with my emotional side as an actor is familiar. However, portraying Olivia's emotions was different and I found it enjoyable.
Ren Bell, our dialogue coach and dear friend, directed the episode. I was thrilled that he was helming it because he helped me find the authentic path for my character, all while having a blast and staying true to the spirit of Night Court.
The Night Court Finale Will Continue To Showcase A Fresh Take On The Original Series
Night Court Paul Scheer Interview Featured Image - The Night Court Finale Will Continue To Showcase A Fresh Take On The Original Series
I really enjoyed the storyline this season that involved the unexpected love triangle between your character, Pellino, and Carnes. It was interesting playing around with such different types of romances in the same episode.
India de Beaufort had a blast working with Paul Scheer on Veep a few years back. She already knew Paul through her husband and his wife, and she found his company delightful, filled with laughter and dry humor. Rob was also great to work with, and the combination of the two of them was just so funny.
According to India, that particular week was one of the funniest she had experienced. She enjoyed switching between characters and found it to be a lot of fun. Some weeks on the show lean more towards reality, while others embrace the ridiculousness of Night Court. India felt that the episode with Paul and Rob was a throwback to the old school style of the show.
We're approaching the end of the season. Any teasers for the Night Court finale?
India de Beaufort: Marsha [Warfield] will be making a return. You'll see Marsha before the season wraps up. I can't reveal much about her role or storyline yet. We have some amazing guest stars lined up. The finale will be heartwarming and enjoyable for the whole family. It's a nod to classic sitcoms with a fresh twist for Night Court 2023. Hopefully, everyone will love it, and we'll keep our fingers crossed for a third season.
About Night Court
Abby smiling while Wyatt looks intense on Night Court 209. - About Night Court
Court is back in session with the perpetually sunny judge Abby Stone (Melissa Rauch) taking the night shift in her father's old courtroom. She presides over New York's most unique and unusual cases, with a quirky cast of characters by her side. This includes former night court District Attorney Dan Fielding (John Larroquette), who now serves as the court's public defender.
Don't miss out on our other Night Court season 2 interviews.
Paul Scheer
Rob Huebel
Jessica St. Clair
Ryan Hansen
Lacretta
Nyambi Nyambi
Night Court airs Tuesdays at 8:00 pm ET on NBC and is available to stream the next day on Peacock.
Source: Screen Rant Plus
Editor's P/S:
The reboot of "Night Court" has been a delightful surprise, successfully capturing the essence of the original while introducing a fresh cast of characters. India de Beaufort's portrayal of Olivia Moore has been particularly captivating, evolving from a guarded and ambitious prosecutor to a more vulnerable and relatable figure. The exploration of her personal life and relationships has added depth to the character, making her journey all the more engaging.
Beaufort's enthusiasm for the show and her admiration for her co-stars are evident in her interview. Her comments highlight the positive atmosphere on set and the collaborative spirit among the cast. The upcoming finale promises to be a heartwarming and satisfying conclusion to a strong season, leaving viewers eagerly anticipating the potential renewal for a third season.