Lacretta talks NBC’s Night Court & role as Bailiff Donna ‘Gurgs’ Gurganous

Lacretta is stealing our hearts in NBC’s Night Court as bailiff Donna ‘Gurgs’ Gurganous. This Kansas City, Missouri native is making her way through the entertainment industry from Broadway to television. I had a spectacular time speaking with her about her role and the show and learned a little more about her as an actress.   

Cox: Lacretta, thank you for taking the time today to speak with me about Night Court. I have to know, what drew you to the show and your character Donna’  Gurgs’Gurganous? Lacretta: Oh Gosh, I already enjoyed the original show. Even though I didn’t quite know what I was watching, I thought it was hilarious. And I felt smart at my age watching it. So, when I got the first couple of pages for my role, I knew this person was right up my alley.  

I love that Gurgs is just weird and lives in the moment. I really wish we as people could live more in the moment. I wanted this role as soon as I read the last page. Going into the audition for this, I knew I would be serious about it.  

Cox: When you read it, did you feel like this was a role made specifically for you?  
Lacretta: I don’t claim things like that because I never want to set myself up for disappointment if I don’t get it. But I knew this was the role I wanted because she showed a different type of Big Black female archetype.   

As an actress, my past has been full of characters slightly outside the box. And this was another perfect opportunity for me to play someone even more outside the box.  

Cox: Regarding the different Big Black female archetypes in television and film, why is a diverse representation like your role important?  
Lacretta: Often, we don’t see Big Black women leading roles in entertainment. With this character and the ensemble, Gurgs can be a leading character like everyone else on the show. That’s why it’s essential for those coming after me to see the potential for more than what’s usually offered.   

Cox: Landing a role is always challenging. What was some of the feedback you heard about why you were chosen for it?  
Lacretta: So, my name Lacretta is a derivative of Lurcetius, the father of Epicureanism, which actually means light. I say this because they said I had a light and joy about me in my audition tape. I jumped out of the screen at them, and they loved me from the first moment.   

Cox: When it comes to your light, you always shine so bright.  
Lacretta: Yes, I didn’t realize how much of my light translated on screen until I saw it myself. This is why I tell people don’t dim their light for anyone, even if it blinds them. But, of course, it would help if you never had to be in a position where you need to dim your light for others.  

Cox: I love to hear that. Now let’s get back to the show. How would you describe Gurgs?  
Lacretta: She is just a good-time girl. Even though she is the court bailiff and in order of the law, she wants everyone to feel happy, comfortable and protected. She is a caretaker and is the encouraging and motivating force behind the group. She loves you intensely if you are family or a friend.   

Cox: This show is hilarious, just like the original. Why do you think people are drawn to shows like this?  
Lacretta: It’s the heart of it all. Shows like this are a pleasant diversion from everything happening in the world right now. There is so much going on; with a show like this, you can turn off your brain and laugh.  

Cox: Lacretta, it’s been a joy speaking with you. Before we go, I want to ask you one last question. What about this industry and the craft you love the most? What keeps you going even when times get tough, but you know it’s still worth it?  
Lacretta: I love the surprise of it all. When I left for New York from Kansas City, I thought I would be in musicals. Then I got to Broadway. I thought Broadway would be the rest of my life, but then I moved to LA, now doing television. I’m putting roots here now, and I’m grateful for everything. God took me where I needed to be. I’m thankful and still surprised by it all, but as you can see, it’s worth it.