It’s a moment Spencer tells TVLine she’ll never forget: “I walk on set and she’s like, ‘You’re the girl!’ I was like, ‘Oh my God, I’m getting fired.’ She marches right up to me in her spunky way and goes, ‘You’re the girl everyone tells me I look like.’ I was dying. I was like, ‘No, Jennifer Love Hewitt. Nobody tells you that you look like Abigail Spencer because nobody knows who I am. You are not allowed to say that.’”
Spencer surmises that the comparisons were likely due to similarly styled billboards for Hewitt’s 2002 movie The Tuxedo and Spencer’s 2006 TV show Angela’s Eyes. (Think “long brown hair, flared nostrils, arched eyebrows and suits,” Spencer says.) Now fast forward nearly 20 years to last week’s 9-1-1 midseason premiere, which welcomed Spencer as Detective Amber Braeburn, who spent the hour helping Maddie (Hewitt) and Athena (Angela Bassett) catch a serial killer. Fun fact: Spencer and Bassett both appeared in the 2012 movie This Means War, but they didn’t share any scenes, making this their first time working together on screen. “What a treat to work with Angela Bassett,” she says. “I hope everyone gets the experience someday.”
Amber’s commitment to the case gave viewers no reason to suspect that she was playing Maddie and Athena the entire time, so when Amber kidnapped Maddie at the end of the episode, the fandom’s jaws dropped to the floor in unison. “I thought it was cool that they trusted me with such an important twist,” Spencer says. “And I’m very grateful that [Jennifer and I] had each other as teammates for that experience.”
In the latest season of 9-1-1, viewers were left on the edge of their seats as Detective Amber Braeburn, portrayed by Abigail Spencer, faced off against fan-favorite Maddie Han, played by Jennifer Love Hewitt. The two actresses, who share a long-standing friendship, brought their A-game to deliver one of the most intense and emotionally charged episodes in the series’ history.
The Return of Detective Amber Braeburn
Abigail Spencer’s portrayal of Detective Amber Braeburn introduced a complex and chilling character to the 9-1-1 universe. Drawing inspiration from the real-life “Weepy Voiced Killer,” Braeburn’s character was a detective with dissociative identity disorder, leading to a series of harrowing events that captivated audiences.
A Nod to Real-Life Inspiration
Spencer’s research into the “Weepy Voiced Killer” provided depth to her character’s portrayal. She delved into the psychological aspects of dissociative identity disorder to authentically depict Braeburn’s complexities.
Reuniting with Jennifer Love Hewitt
Abigail Spencer and Jennifer Love Hewitt’s reunion on set was a highlight for both actresses. Having previously worked together on Ghost Whisperer, their chemistry was evident, even in the most intense scenes.
Behind the Scenes Camaraderie
Despite the dark nature of their roles, Spencer and Hewitt maintained a lighthearted atmosphere on set. Spencer shared, “We were dancing and singing between every scene, which is what is hilarious. But that just goes to show the capacity… she’s been entertaining the world her whole life.”
The Intensity of the Basement Showdown
The episode titled “Voices” featured a gripping sequence where Maddie Han was kidnapped and held captive in a basement by Detective Braeburn. The physical and emotional toll on both characters was immense, showcasing their resilience and determination.
Filming the Throat Slash Scene
One of the most shocking moments was when Braeburn slashed Maddie’s throat. Spencer admitted, “Guys, I’m sorry. I’m sorry. I had to do it,” acknowledging the gravity of the scene and its impact on viewers.
Jennifer Love Hewitt’s Performance
Jennifer Love Hewitt’s portrayal of Maddie Han in this episode was nothing short of remarkable. She described her character’s struggle as more animalistic and determined, likening Maddie to a “feral” alley cat.
The Survivor Instincts of Maddie Han
Hewitt emphasized Maddie’s resilience, stating, “The peril, and the fight, and the survivor, that’s who Maddie is.” This episode highlighted Maddie’s strength and unwavering will to survive.
The Direction of Jennifer Lynch
Director Jennifer Lynch brought a unique vision to the episode, infusing elements of horror and suspense. Her direction allowed the actors to explore the darker aspects of their characters, resulting in a memorable and haunting episode.
The Psychological Depth of Amber Braeburn
Amber Braeburn’s character was more than just a villain; she was a deeply troubled individual grappling with dissociative identity disorder. Spencer’s portrayal shed light on the complexities of mental health, adding depth to the storyline.
Balancing Horror with Humanity
Spencer noted the importance of portraying Braeburn’s humanity amidst her horrific actions. She stated, “Multiple personality disorder is a very real disorder, and I’m not excusing any of the deeds that were done by any of these characters, but that’s my job, to bring understanding to that.”
The Impact on Maddie’s Character
The events of this episode had a profound effect on Maddie Han, pushing her to confront her past traumas and emerge stronger. The experience marked a turning point in her character’s development.
The Possibility of a Ghostly Return
Given the supernatural elements of 9-1-1, fans have speculated about the potential return of Amber Braeburn as a ghost. While nothing has been confirmed, the show’s history of unexpected twists leaves the door open for such possibilities.
Fan Reactions and Social Media Buzz
The episode sparked widespread discussion on social media platforms, with fans praising the performances of both Spencer and Hewitt. The intense scenes and emotional depth resonated with viewers, leading to trending hashtags and online discussions.
The Future of 9-1-1
As the series continues, fans eagerly anticipate the next developments in Maddie Han’s journey and the potential return of characters like Amber Braeburn. The show’s ability to blend intense drama with complex characters ensures its place as a staple in television entertainment.
Conclusion: A Masterclass in Acting and Storytelling
The collaboration between Abigail Spencer and Jennifer Love Hewitt in this episode of 9-1-1 showcased the power of strong performances and compelling storytelling. Their ability to portray such intense emotions and complex characters added depth to the series and left a lasting impression on viewers.
