The Untold Secrets of Willie's Backstory in Heels Season 2: Unleashing the True Power of Mentoring in DWL

Mary McCormack reprises her role as Willie Day in the second season of Heels, immersing herself further into the history and future of the Duffy Wrestling League. In this new season, Willie bears the weight of managing the day-to-day operations of the DWL while finding herself caught in the middle of the heated rivalry between Jack Spade (Stephen Amell) and Ace Spade (Alexander Ludwig).

Furthermore, Heels season 2 delves deeper into Willie's personal history, particularly after Jack's wife Staci (Alison Luff) takes it upon herself to "clean up" the DWL. Simultaneously, Willie takes on the role of mentor to Crystal Tyler (Kelli Berglund), an unexpected DWL Champion who swiftly rises to become the league's prominent female star.

Screen Rant had the pleasure of speaking with Mary McCormack regarding Willie's role in Heels season 2, where she mentors Crystal. McCormack expresses her love for portraying a female character that is rarely seen on television. Note: This interview took place prior to the SAG-AFTRA strike, and it is important to acknowledge that the existence of the show being discussed is a direct result of the hard work put in by writers and actors who are part of WGA and SAG-AFTRA.

Mary McCormack Talks Heels Season 2

Screen Rant: When I watch Heels, I can imagine Willie is what happens after being married to Howard Stern for 20 years.

Mary McCormack finds it hilarious to have passed out drunk on her bedroom floor. In the second season of the show "Heels," we delve deeper into Willie's history with Tom Spade and Wild Bill. Willie holds numerous secrets of the DWL, and this allows us to gain a more comprehensive insight into her character. Share your thoughts with me, I'm eager to hear them.

Mary McCormack expressed her enthusiasm for the content and storyline of the show, particularly regarding season 1. She finds it unique to begin the series with the suicide of the patriarch, as it raises thought-provoking questions about the characters and their dynamics. Mary also reveals that Willie and Tom are aware of hidden secrets and suggests a desire for a season 3 to delve further into these elements. She acknowledges television as a dynamic medium where the writers continually explore new ideas and possibilities. Mary enjoys the unpredictability of television acting and expresses her love for it.

Crystal comes more into her own in season 2, and she really takes the spotlight. Can you talk a little bit about Willie's relationship with Crystal?

Mary McCormack: I take on the role of mentoring her. Crystal, the champion by the end of season 1 with the belt, raises the question of how to maintain her position. It's not realistic for her to continuously defeat male opponents every week, nor can she be defeated every week by men. This leads us to naturally develop the women's division. Willie, who has experienced a lifetime of pain from not being in the ring, now has the perfect opportunity. When Jack is away, and Willie is left in charge temporarily, she truly comes alive when she organizes matches.

Combining Willie's mentoring of Crystal with her desire to establish the women's division creates the ideal opportunity. I particularly enjoy the scenes with Kelli because they are so intricate. On one hand, Willie sees her own dreams fulfilled through Crystal, which is strange, yet she also feels a bit envious, which is also peculiar. However, Willie sincerely loves Crystal and is genuinely cheering her on, while also wanting her to toughen up.

In season 2, Staci Spade becomes more immersed in the DWL. She represents the opposite of Willie as she is driven by idealism. Will Staci ultimately follow in Willie's footsteps and become more like her once she discovers the hidden truths?

Mary McCormack: That seems to be the only way for it to progress. Therefore, I believe so. Imagine the intrigue of witnessing Staci Spade involved in illicit financial transactions. I will steer her in the right direction.

I am excited to see season 3, just like you. Do you think Willie will find release from her burdens? Perhaps she will find a way to lighten up?

Mary McCormack: I appreciate how they have crafted her character, making her complex. It's truly wonderful. Many women in the past were unable to pursue their dreams because of limitations placed on them. This provides fertile ground for storytelling. As a woman, I am deeply moved by this. There were numerous opportunities that women were denied, so I appreciate all of that. I find it interesting that she is not completely put together. It seems that her marriage is not successful, and she may not be the best mother. I'm guessing that becoming a mother was not a choice she made. It appears that she grapples with all of these challenges. However, I enjoy portraying her because it is not often seen on television. It is difficult for us to witness women in such circumstances. I commend Heels for taking on this portrayal.

About Heels Season 2

Stay tuned for our upcoming interviews with:

Robby Ramos, Allen Maldonado & Trey Tucker

Alison Luff

Heels season 2 premieres July 28, 2023, on STARZ.

Source: Screen Rant Plus