BET’s The Oval, written and directed by Tyler Perry and starring Brad Benedict, Daniel Croix, and Kron Moore, is back with their second season starting February 16, and we cannot wait. Get excited for more family drama, secrets, and lies than ever before.
The Oval takes place in the White House and focuses on the lives of not only the people in power but the lives of the staff within it. Viewers get a look into the corruption, lies, and scandals that take place inside the Oval Office. With its release of season two, The Oval was one of the first television shows to resume production, as Tyler Perry set up a quarantine bubble, called “Camp Quarantine” last summer.
Kron Moore, also known for her role as Dr. Chapel in the CW’s STARGIRL, plays Victoria Franklin, the first lady of the US, and villain in the show. We had the opportunity to chat with Moore and discuss her role on the show, what it is like working with Tyler Perry, the “Camp Quarantine,” and more.
Check out the full interview with Kron Moore below and be sure to tune in to BET’s The Oval Tuesdays at 9/8c.
The Knockturnal: What can fans look forward to in Season 2 of BET’s The Oval?
Kron Moore: Season 1 left us hanging, with a dilemma for every character. Season 2 grabs the baton, satisfies some of our longing for answers and turns up the heat. Victoria forms a couple of unexpected bonds and reveals a little vulnerability. The first family’s layers keep peeling back and White House staff has their work cut out for them! If you thought our first season was wild, buckle up and secure your wigs for this season’s insanity.
The Knockturnal: As one of the first scripted television shows to resume production in the U.S. last summer, what was your experience like filming during the pandemic?
Kron Moore: This season was filmed in the “bubble” of Camp Quarantine at Tyler Perry Studios. Outside of the adjustment to frequent testing, wearing PPE, physical distancing and fresh air/hand washing breaks, our filming process was relatively normal. When we weren’t working, we enjoyed movies on the lawn, food trucks, bike rentals, boot camp fitness classes, etc. to keep us safely engaged.
Not having the freedom to come and go at will was an adjustment which was well accounted for when the studio developed the concept of Camp Quarantine. We all felt secure, knowing that every precautionary measure was taken to ensure our health and safety, and I’m proud to say that our production had no reported positive cases of COVID-19.
The Knockturnal: How has working through the pandemic affected/bonded the cast and crew of the show?
Kron Moore: Our cast already shares a unique bond, given the unorthodox filming process at TPS. I think filming during the pandemic has reinforced our friendships and trust in each other. Living on campus with our castmates afforded us the luxury of learning more about (and understanding) each other’s strengths and vulnerabilities and being physically available to lend support.
The Knockturnal: Personality-wise, do you more closely relate to your role as Victoria Franklin on The Oval or Dr. Chapel on STARGIRL?
Kron Moore: I can honestly relate to both characters, for the same reason; they’re flawed humans. I understand their motivation, which (just like anyone else) is rooted in past experiences and future aspirations. There are moments when I want to scream and throw things out of frustration, much like Victoria.
There are others when, similar to Dr. Chapel, I’m hyper-focused on work and have to be reminded that I’m missing out on the fullness of life. My connection to both characters is rooted in my value of the dynamics of the human condition.
The Knockturnal: What has it been like working with Tyler Perry?
Kron Moore: What a loaded question! I’d say, above all else, working with Tyler Perry has offered me a unique education. Witnessing his work ethic, picking his brain, observing how he conducts business, appreciating his humor; You can’t buy that type of experience. People often ask if I ever get to see him. Tyler literally directs every episode! He starts the day with us (on set) and is there every day until we wrap. It’s sometimes intense, and at others, we’re falling to the floor in laughter. It’s a wild, beautiful ride.
The Knockturnal: How would Victoria Franklin react to the current political climate?
Kron Moore: Victoria would refreshen her lipstick, fix her dress, hop aboard her C-32, and retreat to the Caribbean. Since Hunter thinks he’s so powerful, let him handle it!
