The unthinkable happened in the tenth episode of Evil Season 4, and we had the chance to speak with Christine Lahti to set the record straight.
During our conversation, the powerful actress who portrays Cheryl Lauria in the Paramount+ series Evil opened up about her character’s wild ride.
From Cheryl’s villainous beginnings to unexpected moments of redemption, Lahti shared insights into what made Cheryl one of the show’s most compelling characters.
Reflecting on the season, Lahti made no secret of her enthusiasm and appreciation for the show’s writers.
“I think the writers did a great job of getting the audience to really care about her because she was evil and crazy. And this season, she really tried to do the right thing and found herself feeling remorse and redemption.”
It was a journey that drew us all in, and Lahti’s portrayal of it made it impossible to look away.
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The turbulent relationship between Cheryl and Leland Townsend, played by Michael Emerson, has always been a major focus of the story.
When asked about balancing the conflicting aspects of Cheryl’s character, Lahti explained: “I think once Leland broke up with her…from that point on, I think he was like, ‘I’m going to get power at any cost, and I’m going to take you down, you son of a bitch.'”
Lahti’s dedication to crafting Cheryl’s backstory added depth to her character. She imagined Cheryl’s past in the world of rock and roll, suggesting a history of abuse and toxic relationships that fueled her relentless pursuit of power.
The chemistry between Lahti and Michael Emerson was undeniable, making the tension they had on screen even more palpable.
“It’s so much fun. He’s so much fun to work with. We improvise and play, and he’s so willing to try anything. He’s such a sweet, kind guy,” Lahti said, highlighting the collaborative spirit that brought their scenes to life.
Cheryl’s death scene was a very painful moment for fans, and Lahti herself found it to be a very emotional moment. She revealed: “I read the episode and I cried. I was so sad. I was actually shocked and sad.”
The decision to kill Cheryl was a difficult one, but Lahti understood its place in the story. “I finally realized that on a show called Evil, in a showdown between Cheryl and Leland, Leland would ultimately win.”
One of the most poignant aspects of Cheryl’s story was her relationship with her daughter, Christine, played by Katja Herbers. The mother-daughter relationship was complicated, but their final moments together provided a sense of closure.
“The shoot was so emotional. Katya and I were crying and feeling really grateful that we had that moment that ended with the end of love, because the love between us was so great.”
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Lahti said the scene was originally going to have more dialogue, but it was trimmed down for realism. Despite the cuts, the emotions were clear. “I didn’t see it, but it was very moving to film,” she said. “There’s probably a moment of reconciliation and love between them.”
We asked Lahti what Cheryl’s last words might have been had they made it into the final cut of the film. She said, “I’m sorry. Please forgive me. I did the best I could.”
“All the things you want on your deathbed that when you feel like you’ve wronged people you want to make amends in some way and take responsibility and eventually get forgiveness, I think.”
One of Lahti’s favorite scenes this season was in the confessional with David, played by Mike Colter. “She finally asked for help, and I think all this guilt and remorse started to build up, and she couldn’t control it,” she explained.
For Cheryl, confession was less about seeking divine forgiveness and more about gaining David’s acceptance.
When Lahti discussed Cheryl’s ultimate fate and what she wanted for Leland, she did not hesitate to say, “What she wants more than anything is for him to take responsibility for himself and be barred and locked up for the rest of his life and denied access to my daughter and granddaughters.”
As we finished our conversation, it was clear that Lahti felt a deep connection to her character, and that the fans’ reactions had touched her. “It’s such a tragedy that she cried a little bit when she died,” she said, and she was truly touched by my open empathy for Cheryl.
Christine Lahti’s performance as Cheryl Lauria in Evil was nothing short of extraordinary. She took a character who could have been a one-dimensional villain and turned her into a character with depth, vulnerability, and undeniable spark.
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As we say goodbye to Cheryl, we feel a mixture of sadness and gratitude for the unforgettable journey Lahti took us on.
With evil behind her, we eagerly await what Christine Lahti will do next.
One thing is for sure: Whatever role she plays, she will undoubtedly bring the same passion, intensity, and authenticity that made Cheryl a character we loved, hated, and ultimately loved. Thank you, Kristen, for embodying Cheryl and delivering four unforgettable seasons of Evil.
