Leslie Grossman, known for her roles in American Horror Story, first gained recognition for her portrayal of Mary Cherry in the WB series Popular, which premiered 25 years ago on Sept. 29, 1999. Created by Ryan Murphy and Gina Matthews, Popular was a teen dramedy that followed the lives of stepsisters navigating high school from different ends of the popularity spectrum.
Reflecting on her time on the show, Grossman expressed that it was a formative and positive experience for her. She described it as a safe and lovely environment, noting that it was her first regular series role and a transformative period in her life. Grossman also emphasized the freedom she had to push the limits with her character, Mary Cherry, and make creative choices that she found funny and true to the character.
Grossman fondly remembered her co-stars and the bond they shared, likening the experience to looking back on one’s senior year of high school. Since her role in Popular, Grossman has continued her acting career with appearances in various TV shows, including What I Like About You, Grey’s Anatomy, Scandal, and Love, Victor. She has also reunited with Ryan Murphy multiple times, appearing in Nip/Tuck and becoming a regular cast member in American Horror Story.
The two actors recently collaborated on Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story, where Grossman played Judalon Smyth, a significant figure in the 1989 murder case of the Menendez brothers’ parents. Grossman revealed that the idea for her role came from a conversation with Ryan Murphy, who had been developing the Netflix true crime series for years. She expressed her enthusiasm for the project and her close relationship with Murphy, stating that she would be thrilled to participate in another season of American Horror Story. Grossman emphasized the trust and bond she shares with Murphy, describing him as family and expressing gratitude for his support during tough times.