The secrets of ‘Scandal’ include greenscreen, speedtalking, and a psychic writers’ room

Best Friend Vibes: Katie Lowes and Guillermo Diaz Delve into the Second Episode of ‘Scandal’ Podcast

Episode 2: Unpacking the Toolbox

Katie Lowes and Guillermo Diaz, the beloved stars of ‘Scandal,’ continue their podcast journey with the second episode, “Unpacking the Toolbox.” This time, they dive deeper into the intricacies of the show, revealing behind-the-scenes details and insights from their personal experiences.

Huck’s Memento and the Symbolic Wall

Guillermo shares a fascinating tidbit about a memento he took home from the show. Permission was granted for him to have a broken window panel from the iconic conference room wall. This highly symbolic wall, with its cracked windows, served as a frequent backdrop for photos and clues.

Katie jokingly remarks that the panel brings her comfort, knowing it resides in Guillermo’s home. She also reveals that the original conference table from the OPA office now graces the Shondaland Offices in Hollywood.

The Writers’ Psychic Abilities

As they revisit the episode, Lowes and Diaz discuss the writers’ uncanny ability to mirror their evolving relationships on screen.

Lowes notes that the dynamics between Quinn and Huck, particularly their closeness, were subtly hinted at from the start. They speculate that the makeup trailers, where candid conversations occurred, may have been bugged by the writers, as their personal interactions seemed to influence the plot.

The Breakneck Pace of ‘Scandal’

Lowes and Diaz shed light on the intense preparation required to maintain the rapid pace of ‘Scandal.’ They spent countless hours memorizing lines and rehearsing, a practice that not only enhanced their performances but also contributed to the show’s signature style.

Diaz emphasizes that the fast-paced dialogue became an integral part of their acting technique, elevating scenes and adding depth.

Amanda Tanner and Quinn’s Dark Past

The episode introduces a subplot involving Amanda Tanner, who seeks OPA’s assistance. Quinn’s attempt to gain her trust leads to a revelation about Quinn’s own troubled past, using the alias Lindsay Dwyer.

Intriguingly, Lowes reveals that the writers had not yet fully developed Quinn’s past at this point in the show. She wonders whether her performance could have influenced the eventual direction of the storyline.

The Art of Deception in Filming

Diaz shares a surprising secret: the majority of ‘Scandal’ was filmed in Los Angeles, and scenes featuring iconic landmarks were digitally enhanced.

Lowes adds that they often filmed outside in parks, wearing warm clothing despite the California heat. The seamless integration of these scenes with the digital backgrounds fooled many viewers into thinking the show was set in Washington, D.C.

The podcast concludes with a collection of continuity errors, behind-the-scenes trivia, and a nostalgic look back at tweets from the show’s original airing.

‘Unpacking the Toolbox’ is a captivating listen for fans of ‘Scandal,’ featuring exclusive anecdotes and insights from the show’s stars, Katie Lowes and Guillermo Diaz. New episodes are released every Thursday, with ‘Scandal’ streaming on Hulu.