She made waves as the trust-fund squandering, world-traveling black sheep “Hailey Nichol” on The O.C., but this August, Amanda Righetti’s role in REAGAN couldn’t be taking her any further from her character in the Fox series. Starring Dennis Quaid, Penelope Ann Miller and Jon Voight, the biopic features Righetti as ‘Nelle Reagan,’ Ronald Reagan’s mother, a stoic and protective woman who influenced him with his politics. The film premieres in theaters nationwide on August 30 and while the tone may be historical, as Righetti shared with us, getting the glam to be accurate was a huge part of the process.
What can audiences expect from the film?
REAGAN is a historical biopic about the 40th president of the United States, Ronald Reagan. Set against the back drop of the Cold War, the film explores who Reagan was as a man, how his upbringing, and the time he was raised in, impacted the choices and convictions he held throughout his life.
How did you prepare for this role? Are there any big similarities or differences between Amanda and Nelle?
I did a lot of reading to learn as much I could about Nelle Reagan. She deeply impacted and influenced her children in a profoundly optimistic way. I connected to her most closely as a mother. Some similarities we shared were being the youngest of many siblings, growing up in a small town, and faith being a strong guiding compass.
Do you have any insider glam tips on how you got into character?
Nelle’s wardrobe was a big part of my process, as well as the hair and makeup. We used a few different wigs, and minimal makeup for a more youthful and time-appropriate look.
Do you have any on-set beauty secrets from any of your previous roles?
Smith’s Rosebud Salve is one of my favorite lip balms! It’s been my go-to for years. It gives moisture without color or too much gloss, and works beautifully as a base moisturizer or on its own.
What are some skin-care products you swear by?
I have very sensitive skin and wrestle with allergies, so Cetaphil has become a staple in my skin-care routine.
How do you maintain your red hair?
I try to use a shampoo/conditioner with UV defense to help protect the color.
What’s the one piece of advice you’d tell the teenage version of yourself who was starting out in this industry?
Trust and listen to your instincts.
