Sarah Paulson Criticizes Actor for 'Outrageous' Six-Page Email Critiquing Her Performance

Golden Globe and Emmy Award winner Sarah Paulson opened up about a surprising and "outrageous" experience during a recent episode of the "Smartless" podcast. Recalling her 2013 performance in "Talley's Folly" at the Roundabout Theatre in New York, Paulson shared how Trish Hawkins, the original actress to play the role, sent her a six-page email critiquing her performance.

Paulson, who received rave reviews for her portrayal of Salley Talley in Lanford Wilson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play, was shocked by Hawkins' reaction. Hawkins had originated the role during the production’s 1979 off-Broadway and 1980 Broadway runs.

"Trish Hawkins came to the play and said, 'Your dress is yellow. Mine was pink.' I thought, 'What?' Then two days later, I received a six-page email from her detailing notes on my performance and how she played the role," Paulson recounted.

Paulson found the email "really outrageous" and shared her feelings openly on the podcast, declaring, "Trish Hawkins, I have not forgotten it, and I hope to see you never."

The podcast hosts, actors Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, and Will Arnett, found the story amusing. Arnett particularly appreciated Paulson's ability to hold a grudge for over a decade.

Hawkins, now in her late 70s, hasn’t publicly responded to Paulson’s comments. Paulson noted she still has the email and revealed her mother, who was in a writing group with Hawkins, had brought her to the play.

Paulson is currently starring in Broadway’s "Appropriate," alongside Corey Stoll and Michael Esper.