Andie MacDowell Embraces Motherly Role on ‘The Way Home’ Set

Andie MacDowell, renowned actress and beloved star of the Hallmark Channel series *The Way Home*, has not only taken on the role of a mother on-screen but has also embraced that role off-camera for her costars.

In an exclusive interview with *Us Weekly*, Chyler Leigh, Evan Williams, and Sadie Laflamme-Snow shared their experiences working with MacDowell, who has become a maternal figure to them.

The show, which delves into the complexities of motherhood and family dynamics, has resonated deeply with both its cast and audience.

Let’s explore how MacDowell’s real-life experiences and the show’s unique narrative have intertwined to create a compelling viewing experience.

Andie MacDowell: A Maternal Figure On and Off Screen

Andie MacDowell’s portrayal of Del in *The Way Home* has been nothing short of captivating.

Her costars, Chyler Leigh, Evan Williams, and Sadie Laflamme-Snow, have expressed immense admiration for her, describing her as a guiding force and a source of comfort.

Leigh, who plays MacDowell’s on-screen daughter Kat, highlighted MacDowell’s willingness to share her life experiences and offer advice, making her feel like a true maternal figure.

This dynamic has not only enriched their performances but also fostered a familial bond among the cast.

Chyler Leigh on MacDowell’s Influence

Chyler Leigh, who portrays Kat, MacDowell’s on-screen daughter, emphasized the profound impact MacDowell has had on her and her fellow cast members.

Leigh described MacDowell as the *advice giver and the hugger*, always ready to share her wisdom and life experiences.

This nurturing presence has created a supportive environment on set, allowing the actors to delve deeper into their roles and bring authenticity to their characters.

Evan Williams on the Show’s Unique Perspective

Evan Williams, another key cast member, pointed out the significance of the Hallmark show’s mother-daughter writing team, Heather Conkie and Alexandra Clarke.

Williams noted that the show offers a multifaceted view of motherhood, informed by the real-life experiences of its creators.

This authenticity is mirrored in MacDowell’s performance, as she draws from her own experiences as a mother to bring depth and nuance to her character, Del.

The Way Home: A Journey Through Time and Family

*The Way Home*, which premiered in 2023, introduces viewers to the Landry family, spanning three generations of women.

The show’s unique narrative revolves around a mystical pond on their land that allows them to time travel.

This intriguing plot device enables the characters to explore their family history and uncover long-buried secrets, adding layers of complexity to their relationships.

Exploring Del’s Character in Season 3

Season 3 of *The Way Home* has delved deeper into MacDowell’s character, Del, as her granddaughter, Alice, played by Sadie Laflamme-Snow, begins to travel back to the 1970s.

This era holds significant importance as it marks the time when Del met her husband, Colton, portrayed by Jefferson Brown.

The time-travel element not only adds a fantastical twist to the storyline but also allows for a richer exploration of Del’s past and the events that shaped her into the person she is today.

The Impact of Time Travel on Family Dynamics

The ability to time travel has profound implications for the Landry family, as it forces them to confront their past and its influence on their present lives.

This narrative device serves as a catalyst for character development, particularly for Del, who must reconcile with her past decisions and their impact on her family.

The show’s exploration of time travel is not just a plot gimmick but a meaningful tool that deepens the audience’s understanding of the characters and their motivations.

MacDowell’s Real-Life Role as a Mother

Off-screen, Andie MacDowell is a mother to three children: Justin, 38; Rainey, 35; and Margaret, 30, whom she shares with her ex-husband, Paul Qualley.

Her real-life experiences as a mother have undoubtedly influenced her portrayal of Del, adding authenticity and emotional depth to her performance.

MacDowell’s daughter, Rainey, has also shared insights into the advice and guidance she has received from her mother, further highlighting MacDowell’s nurturing nature.

Rainey’s Reflections on MacDowell’s Advice

Rainey, who recently welcomed her first child with partner Anthony Wilson, spoke about the protective advice she received from MacDowell.

She mentioned that her mother advised her to avoid traveling and to focus on taking care of herself during her pregnancy.

This protective instinct is indicative of MacDowell’s deep care and concern for her family, a trait that she brings to her role as Del in *The Way Home*.

Lessons Passed Down Through Generations

Rainey also reflected on the valuable lessons she hopes to pass down to her child, many of which she inherited from MacDowell.

She emphasized the importance of family bonds and the compassion that comes from interacting with animals, a love that MacDowell instilled in her.

These reflections offer a glimpse into the strong familial values that MacDowell upholds, both in her personal life and in her portrayal of Del.

Conclusion: The Way Home’s Resonance with Audiences

*The Way Home* airs on the Hallmark Channel every Friday at 9 p.m. ET. New episodes are available for streaming on Hallmark+ and Peacock the following day. The show’s exploration of motherhood, family dynamics, and the impact of time travel has struck a chord with audiences. This is thanks in large part to Andie MacDowell’s heartfelt performance.

Her ability to draw from her own life experiences and infuse them into her character has created a compelling and relatable portrayal of Del, making *The Way Home* a must-watch series.

As the show continues to unfold, viewers can look forward to more captivating storylines and deeper character explorations. They can also appreciate the real-life connections and experiences that the cast brings to their roles. Andie MacDowell’s presence, both on and off screen, serves as a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring impact of maternal love.