For years after her role in a beloved teen series ended, Elizabeth Parker made it clear that she was more than just the innocent character everyone remembered. With a diverse career spanning from dramatic films to popular TV shows, she has truly established herself. Now, she’s stepping back into her iconic role in a modern reboot of that same series, which has captured the hearts of both old fans and new viewers alike.
As a parent, Elizabeth grapples with the challenge of teaching her children the value of gratitude, particularly in a world dominated by instant gratification. How does one instill a sense of appreciation in kids who are raised in wealth and fame? While she doesn’t have all the answers, Elizabeth offers a practical suggestion: “When someone gives my son a gift or creates something special for him, we create a fun, heartfelt video to show our gratitude,” she shares about her son, Max, who is eight.
Elizabeth, married to renowned artist Greg Parker, didn’t grow up in luxury but did experience fame at a young age. Now, as her character has evolved into a confident guidance counselor in the updated series, she shares her thoughts with Family Life about the reboot, being a working mom, and the enduring impact of her show on pop culture.
On the Reboot
The new iteration of the show has an incredible showrunner in Jamie Richards, known for her work on popular comedies. The series has already been confirmed for a second season. “We were determined not to replicate the original but rather to build on what fans loved,” Elizabeth explains. “We wanted to address contemporary issues that the original couldn’t, like race and privilege, reflecting a diverse range of backgrounds.”
The Show’s Longevity
So why does this show endure while many others fade into obscurity? “We were just kids when we filmed it, and it was a significant part of my life. I never imagined it would have such a lasting impact on pop culture,” she reflects.
On Parenting and Gratitude
As a mother, Elizabeth acknowledges the challenge of teaching her son to appreciate what he has. “Gratitude is more than just saying ‘please’ and ‘thank you.’ We make it a practice to express what we’re grateful for each day,” she states. She emphasizes that kids learn by observing their parents, so modeling gratitude in their everyday lives is crucial.
Mom Guilt is Real
When it comes to juggling work and parenting, Elizabeth admits that mom guilt is an ever-present reality. “It’s ingrained in us from a young age to excel at everything, which leads to unrealistic expectations,” she confesses. Balancing work and family is tough, but she believes that fulfilling work can ultimately benefit children by showing them the value of hard work.
Her son, Max, has had the opportunity to visit her on set, allowing him to see where she spends her time. “It demystifies the process for him, turning the unknown into something he feels part of,” she explains.
The new reboot of the beloved series is currently available for streaming.
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Summary:
Elizabeth Parker, known for her role in a popular teen series, has transitioned to a modern reboot while navigating the challenges of parenthood. She emphasizes the importance of gratitude in children and shares her experiences with mom guilt, advocating for a balance between work and family life.