17 years haven’t changed the James Gunn that Mikaela Hoover initially met, as he remains the same person she knows now.
2008 found me captivated by a talent I was about to work with more closely in the future – James Gunn, who would later become the writer-director of Superman and co-CEO of DC Studios. At that time, he was auditioning actress Tessa Hoover for his web short, Humanzee!. Her performance won him over instantly, but it was her determination to outshine herself that truly endeared her to the filmmaker. Fast forward a few months, and he crafted another web short tailored just for Tessa – Sparky & Mikaela. This quirky production followed the crime-fighting adventures of her DIY superhero character and her raccoon sidekick, featuring cameos by Sean Gunn (a familiar face from Guardians of the Galaxy) and Gregg Henry.
In his second feature film, “Super” (2010), Hoover made an appearance, followed by involvement in five more projects connected to Gunn. Despite their friendship, Hoover didn’t skip the audition process, especially when she got a chance to try out for “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3.” Initially, Gunn was unsure about her suitability for the emotional role of Floor the Rabbit; however, Hoover eventually convinced the casting team otherwise.
After completing Floor’s voice and motion capture work, Hoover’s role appears to have paved the way for the popular manga adaptation on Netflix, “One Piece”. In the forthcoming second season, she will be providing the voice and motion capture for a beloved character, Tony Tony Chopper. Additionally, Hoover has been added to the cast of Netflix’s second season of “Beef”.
Hoover shares with The Hollywood Reporter that playing on Floor was a dream and being chosen for Chopper is an immense honor. He’s thrilled about the upcoming second season of One Piece, believing fans will be ecstatic with this season.”
Or, in a more conversational tone:
“Hoover tells The Hollywood Reporter that playing on Floor was a dream and getting cast as Chopper is the biggest honor for him. He can’t wait for the second season of One Piece because he thinks fans are going to absolutely love it.
In their recent team-up on Superman, Calista Flockhart plays Cat Grant, who works at the Daily Planet as a gossip columnist. To those unaware, Cat appears to be Lois Lane’s closest work friend, but their relationship isn’t close enough for Cat to suspect that Lois (Rachel Brosnahan) is secretly dating Clark Kent (David Corenswet), another journalist. As suggested by Hoover, a divorced Cat wouldn’t react positively to learning about such a romance.
According to Hoover, Cat considers Clark to be the most charming man she’s ever met. If she believed that [Lois and Clark] were actually romantically involved in real life, she wouldn’t be pleased,” Hoover adds, expressing her fondness for him. “She simply adores him.
In their latest chat with THR, Hoover delves into the intricate behind-the-scenes aspects of Superman and shares insights about what shaped her portrayal of Cat.
***
Did James Gunn recently wish you a Happy Birthday on Instagram using the name “Vomita”? I’m curious to know if that’s a nickname or something else.
(Chuckles.) I’ve known James for quite a while now, over 15 years to be exact! He’s more than just a friend to me; we share a bond akin to siblings. James has this knack of teasing me, and whenever someone comments on my appearance, he’d retort with an “Ew, vomit!” Thus, he affectionately calls me Vomita, a nickname that emerged only a week ago. It was amusing how he incorporated that into his birthday wish. I consider myself quite fortunate to have formed this friendship not just with him but also with his wife, Jennifer Holland. We’ve shared some truly unforgettable moments together.
You’ve been a part of James’ acting company or troupe for many years now. What’s the origin story?
Seventeen years ago, I auditioned for James for a short internet series titled “Humanzee!” After my initial audition, I asked to try again. He responded, “But that was excellent.” To which I replied, “I’d still like another chance.” So, I gave it another go, and he said, “That was incredible.” I persisted, “Actually, I’d like to do it one more time.” This pattern continued, with me repeatedly auditioning and giving him direction. He found my determination endearing, amusing, and charming, ultimately casting me in the series “Humanzee!
A couple of months later, he phoned me to share some exciting news: him and producer Peter Safran had developed a show titled “Sparky & Mikaela” specifically for me. They proposed the idea of me taking on the role of Mikaela, which I happily agreed to, as it sounded like a blast. The cast included me, a raccoon puppet, and Sean Gunn. Following this, he also cast me in various other shorts and projects he was working on.
In terms of film projects, you were involved in his second feature, “Super”. This subsequently led to the two “Guardians of the Galaxy” films, “The Belko Experiment”, “The Suicide Squad”, and now “Superman”. How does he usually approach you with potential opportunities?
James frequently asks me to try out for his productions. I received the audition for “Guardians 3” through my talent agent, and the character details were not disclosed in the project breakdown for these types of roles. So I texted James, “Is this correct? You didn’t provide any information about this.” To which he replied, “Yes, but I don’t believe you’ll secure the role as they’re seeking a more robotic-sounding voice. However, it’s crucial that casting gets to hear your voice and your interpretation of the character.” Consequently, I auditioned for the role of Floor [the Rabbit], and amazingly, I managed to land the part.
Did you intentionally decide to specialize in performing motion capture, since you’ve recently done it for Floor and also for Tony Tony Chopper from One Piece? Is this a skill you aim to be recognized for?
Instead of saying “I didn’t,” you can rephrase it as “I haven’t.”
“I haven’t (in the past tense), but I feel incredibly grateful that my career has led me down this path because I have so much enjoyment in portraying these characters. Playing Floor was an absolute dream, and being given the opportunity to play Chopper is a tremendous honor. As such, I’ve been quite fortunate to be able to voice and live-capture these characters that I hold dear.”
This version maintains the original sentiment while using easier-to-read language and correcting the tense inconsistency.
Was James a rebellious punk rocker in Hollywood when you initially encountered him? Currently, he holds significant influence as a Hollywood power broker. Does the trajectory of his career seem astonishing to you considering its origins?
Absolutely! From the moment we first crossed paths, James exuded an extraordinary charm and unique aura that made me aware he was unlike anyone else. His ability to captivate a room is unparalleled among the people I’ve encountered. He’s incredibly gifted and remains true to himself in every way. Over the years, he has remained the same remarkable James Gunn I initially met 17 years ago – a testament to his consistency, which I find truly admirable. I feel incredibly fortunate to have known him for all these years.
In the series ‘Superman,’ your character is a lively gossip columnist who shares a close friendship with Lois, apart from her relationship with Clark Kent. Additionally, it appears that Cat Grant has an ex-partner who is neglecting their financial responsibilities.
He’s toxic!
Is Steve Lombard (Beck Bennett) her ex?
No, but Steve wishes he was Cat’s ex. Cat’s ex is from her old days as a reporter in Hollywood.
Did James give you any other information about Cat that is valid in the movie’s universe?
Upon reserving the character named Cat, I delved back into her comic book series to familiarize myself with her background. I discovered that she hailed from the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, where she was a renowned reporter. However, her life took an unfortunate turn when she became entangled with a less-than-ideal man. They even had a child together, but the toxic environment of Hollywood eventually wore her down. Seeking a fresh start, Cat relocated to Metropolis and landed a position at the Daily Planet.
So you’re going with the comic backstory until James tells you otherwise?
I am.
Cat asks Lois about the guy she’s dating, but does she already have a suspicion that it’s Clark?
I’d steer clear of suggesting they’re an item, as far as I’m concerned, Lois and Clark are just characters in the game world. If it turned out they were together in reality, well, let’s just say my gaming experience wouldn’t be quite the same anymore.
Does Clark wear special glasses that make him look anonymous, preventing people from identifying him as Superman? Ever pondered if James thought about revealing Clark’s true appearance to Cat and the rest of the world?
As far as I’m aware, he is tall, dark, and good-looking according to Cat. To her, he embodies goodness and purity, and she deeply admires him.
Six characters from Daily Planet found themselves inside Mister Terrific’s T-Craft. Was there plenty of mischief and fun, given the limited space and prolonged duration?
Upon entering the T-Craft, none of us knew its capabilities, leaving us filled with apprehension and uncertainty about the upcoming events. With minimal briefing, we exchanged anxious glances, and as James shouted “Action!”, we all clung tightly in anticipation. As the gimbal angled upward and sideways, one of my co-stars muttered, “I think I’m going to vomit,” reflecting the genuine emotions inside the T-Craft.
Was there any interesting Daily Planet material that didn’t make the cut for whatever reason?
I don’t know what I’m allowed to say and not say, so I’d just rather not.
Previously, we mentioned it, and now there’s another exciting series approaching – One Piece. From the previews you’ve watched so far, does it seem like season two is shaping up to be quite entertaining?
I am so excited about season two of One Piece. Fans are going to absolutely love this season.
The luck you’ve had with Netflix continues, as you’re teaming up with William Fichtner in the second season of Beef.
The success on Netflix also carries over to your role in the second season of Beef, where you work alongside William Fichtner.
Yes.
Of the main couples, can you say whose story you’re tied to the most?
It’s under a strict confidence that I can’t reveal details about the project named “Beef.” However, let me tell you, it was nothing short of extraordinary! The team involved is simply outstanding.
By the way, I thought you did a nice job as Adrienne Barbeau on Duster.
Thank you so much.
It’s unfortunate that such an engaging series didn’t have a longer run. Did you know that Adrienne Barbeau portrayed Alice Cable in Wes Craven’s 1982 film, “Swamp Thing”? Have you shared this fun bit of trivia with James?
As soon as I landed the part of Adrienne, I delved deep into research about her. I listened to her audiobook and watched all her movies. Fascinated by her, I consider her a powerhouse, and I feel privileged to portray her. Yes, James was aware that she starred in Swamp Thing. Her life has been truly remarkable.
Are you excited that Matthew Lillard is back for Scream 7, and I was wondering if you prefer the idea of Stu being deceased, with any appearances in the movie being merely dreams or hallucinations?
I’m absolutely thrilled to be pleasantly surprised during my visit to the movie theater, as I have no preconceived notions about this film franchise. I simply go in there to enjoy myself. To be honest, I’m unsure of what Damian Lillard’s role is, but I know that everyone associated with this franchise will make it unforgettable, just like they always do. Being a die-hard fan of Scream and horror movies in general, I can hardly contain my excitement!
For quite some time, I’ve been inquiring from “Scream” actors and directors if they might consider employing a similar narrative strategy as seen in Wes Craven’s “New Nightmare”. If they were to do so, their characters would be portrayals of their real-life personas, facing a genuine Ghostface stalker who begins to eliminate them one by one.
Wondering if it’d be fantastic if executed skillfully, yet it’s tricky given Wes Craven isn’t around anymore – may he rest in peace. It’s hard to picture someone capturing the essence as perfectly as he did, but perhaps a gifted director will seize the opportunity and create something remarkable with it instead.
How about this instead: “So, when you look back at all of this years later, which scene from the set do you think will be the first one that comes to mind regarding Superman?
The first time I stepped into the Daily Planet set was an indescribable experience. I was filled with goosebumps. In that instant, I recall thinking: “I’m incredibly blessed to be here, now, in this production alongside these extraordinary artists and filmmakers.” That moment of gratitude will always stay with me. I’m truly thankful for the entire cast, as we all meshed so beautifully. It seemed like a summer camp atmosphere. The friendships and memories created on set continue to bring joy off-set as well. James has an incredible ability to gather remarkable individuals, and I’m eternally grateful for it.
***
Superman is now playing in movie theaters.
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2025-07-18 21:55