AE: Did you have any qualms about playing a lesbian character?
IL: Well, I was a little nervous about it at first, but that’s what makes it a challenge. And then I found it wasn’t a big deal at all. So now I’m just enjoying it. Plus some of the coolest people I know are gay! It’s definitely an opportunity for me to explore and grow not only as a person but as an artist. I’m really enjoying walking in Kennedy’s shoes and taking her journey.

AE: Did you watch Buffy before being cast in the role? What do you like about the show?
IL: It’s a funny drama. It makes me laugh and cry. Plus it’s always unpredictable and full of surprises. And each character is different with their own story and identity. I also love fiction that has to do with witches, fairies, vamps, etc….is there a word for that? I probably should know. And Buffy makes it all believable, at least for the time being. Along with beautiful photography and composition.

AE: Were you concerned or nervous about joining such a tight-knit group of actors, who have worked together for so many years?
IL: It’s always a little scary going to a new school in their senior year, but they’ve made me feel very comfortable.

AE: How was your experience working with the other Buffy actors, especially Alyson Hannigan?
IL: The actors have been very gracious. It truly has been a learning experience. And Alyson is very professional. She’s been playing the role for going on seven years and knows exactly what Willow would do in certain situations. It’s great working with someone who is so different from their character, yet knows how the character thinks and reacts.

AE: What was it like to kiss Alyson?
IL: It wasn’t a big deal. I really can’t say I was "in the moment" kissing Alyson. I can say it was really nice for Kennedy. She really likes Willow, so she experienced all those feelings one gets just before kissing someone they really like for the first time. When the camera starts rolling, Aly is very professional, and she then IS Willow. Thus I didn't feel i was kissing Aly, but instead i was in the moment with my endearing Willow, whom I really, really like.

AE: Most new characters on a television series are introduced in order to impact or help develop the main characters--what do you see as Kennedy’s role in Willow’s character development?
IL: Well, Willow needed to move out of the sad Tara phase. Kennedy is a completely different character that will hopefully bring out a different side of Willow, keeping everything fresh.

AE: Buffy fans are notoriously devoted and actively outspoken about their likes and dislikes of the show; were you nervous at all about their reaction to you/your character when joining the show?
IL: Yup. At Buffy, the fans are the air that helps the show breathe. No one wants to come into a show and try to take the emotional space of another character. There are instant comparisons, of course. I mean I’m sure there are people still out there that think Ellen and Anne should have stuck it out. I realize, that in most instances, it’s not personal.

AE: Buffy has a long history of women who kick ass (Buffy, Faith, etc.); how do you think Kennedy will fit into this tradition, and what qualities will she add to the slayer tradition?
IL: Kennedy is a very strong soul. As a character Kennedy is growing increasingly stronger. Who knows what will come from the creative minds at Buffy?

AE: How do you see Kennedy differing from Buffy, and particularly with Faith, who is returning later this season (and to whom Kennedy is often compared by fans)?
IL: Kennedy isn't a Slayer, only a Potential. And Kennedy has bits of emotion that slip out, whereas Buffy and Faith keep it all in.

AE: Is there anything that you would say to the fans of Tara who were disappointed by her death in Season 6, and who may have reservations about whether Willow’s character should be allowed to “move on” in her life?
IL: Tara and the actress who played her are irreplaceable. And I personally loved Tara, and also really like Amber although I only met her briefly. Her impact on the show will live on through DVD and the FX channel, as well as anyone who has ever watched the show. Hopefully Kennedy will spark something in the fans and in Willow.

AE: I know you can’t reveal too much about future Willow-Kennedy developments, but can you give any hints?
IL: No, sorry. Honestly, I get the script the day or night before we start shooting.

AE: What do you plan to do after Buffy?
IL: Um, I don’t really know yet. I try to go day by day and live in the moment. I will embrace whatever life has coming my way. I’m not saying I don’t have big ambitions and high expectations, but if I focus too much on the future I can’t really enjoy the present ;)

AE: What’s the most unexpected result of your new fame?
IL: The new Kennedy cereal, featuring a Kennedy doll. Just kidding. All I can say is, “it’s never what you think it is and anything can happen.” I’ve been able to meet a lot of new people, and occasionally, yes, I have been recognized by Buffy fans who I find are super nice. But beyond that, my life is pretty much the same. My soul remains the same, but my experiences are broadening.

IL: As you may know, there has only been one other primary or secondary lesbian character on television ever to be played by a Latina or Mexican-American actress (Lisa Vidal’s character on ER was the first, but she has a much smaller role on the series than Kennedy does on Buffy); how do you feel about making this kind of contribution to television history?
IL: This is great time for latinos in the arts. And I'm glad to bring another positive latina/lesbian character to the television history.

AE: Anything else you want to say to your fans?
IL: I want to say that I feel so happy to be a part of the Buffy legacy, even if it’s the last year. I’m really lucky to be on a show where the fans are so involved, and loyal, and caring. Also I have met some amazing people!

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