Sarah Paulson tells the untold story of her meeting with Marcia Clark and how their friendship began.
TV Academy Hall of Fame Stop
When Sarah Paulson stepped out for the TV Academy Hall of Fame ceremony at the J.W. Marriott Los Angeles, she had one thought on her mind: One of the most memorable highlights of her career was her friendship with Marcia Clark.
“She’s an amazing woman,” Paulson tells PEOPLE.
Playing O.J. Simpson’s lead prosecutor Marcia Clark in American Crime Story: The People v. O.J. Simpson, she not only won over critics but also connected with Clark on a personal level.
Colors of the Pandemic
Sarah says the last time she saw Clark was during the pandemic.
“We keep talking over email,” she shared.
Clark had planned to come to her 50th birthday party, but a sudden work commitment prevented that.
50th Birthday Bash
Paulson says her 50th birthday party was the “best” she’s ever had, but “I would never do that again.”
The party had a DJ playing and guests were served cigarettes in a giant glass bowl.
“Like I was getting married myself,” she laughs.
Ryan Murphy’s Faith
When Ryan Murphy offered Sarah the role of Marcia Clark in 2016, Sarah was initially nervous.
“I thought, ‘Can I play this character?’” But Murphy’s faith encouraged her.
“When Ryan believes in you, you have to believe.”
Real Human Responsibility
For Paulson, the challenge was not just acting for the camera, but getting Clark’s personality and struggles across.
“Knowing that Marcia Clark is a living person made the responsibility even greater.”
She did a lot of research and watched old footage to ensure every emotion was as close to reality as possible.
Sweetness of Contact
Even after nearly ten years, their friendship remains the same warmth.
“The hard work we both put in during that show will always keep us together,” Paulson says.
Put simply, this relationship is not just a co-worker bond but a result of a deep bond.
Celebration of Award Night
When Clark won an Emmy Award, she held Paulson’s hand and walked her on stage.
That moment still brings a sparkle to Sarah’s eyes. “That night was very special for me,” she says.
The Road Ahead
Today, Sarah Paulson is busy with new projects, but the excitement of meeting Clark and sharing jokes with him is still the same.
For an artist, such a friendly moment fills him with new enthusiasm every time.