Gillian Anderson Reveals Why She Had to Read X-Files Scripts in Daylight

Gillian Anderson, the remarkable actress who once had us all tangled in conspiracy theories and alien abductions as FBI Special Agent Dana Scully on *The X-Files*, confessed that she was no stranger to fear. Yes, you heard that right. Anderson, now a seasoned 56, revealed that reading the show’s scripts was such a harrowing experience, she had to do it in broad daylight! Who knew science fiction could be so terrifying?

“Terrified,” she admitted candidly, as if she were discussing the weather instead of the adrenaline-inducing pages that haunted her nights. “I used to have panic attacks, you know, like a classic overthinker grappling with life's existential dread. But it wasn't until I took a delightful detour into the realm of comedy with *Sex Education* that I found myself binging true crime like a late-night snack.” She chuckled, recalling how her escapades began with the notorious Ted Bundy tapes, which had her glued to the screen until three in the morning. Perhaps comedy was her soothing balm amidst the chaos.

And let’s not forget her on-screen partner in crime, David Duchovny. The duo played professional mismatched soulmates for nearly a decade, only to reunite for fresh episodes in 2016. Anderson mused about their “complex relationship,” likening it to a marriage—sans the mortgage and in-laws, of course. “When you work that intensely with someone,” she reflected, “it’s like navigating a rollercoaster of emotions while trying to keep your lunch down.” A sharp observer in her own right, she added that her listening ears have discovered more about Duchovny through his podcast than through their time on set.

During her cheerful conversation on the Table Manners podcast—where food and fantastic dialogue dance joyously together—she took a trip down culinary memory lane. Anderson recounted, “You know, I once dove headfirst into a macrobiotic phase, which is as tricky as it sounds. Imagine a conundrum of grains, seaweed, and yes, fermented foods. Delightful? Perhaps. Manageable? Not so much.” She also noted how this peculiar diet seemed to promise a cleansing experience, popular among those battling illness. But let’s be honest, who hasn’t flirted with bizarre trends in the name of ‘wellness’?

But if you could share a meal with any character from her impressive repertoire, who would she choose? A cheeky smirk crossed her face as she declared, “It would be quite the evening to dine with Margaret Thatcher, perhaps over some kedgeree.” Now that sounds like a dinner conversation that could rival any political debate!

As we welcome back the beloved Table Manners podcast, straight from the cozy confines of Jessie Ware’s kitchen, we can only anticipate more delightful banter, delicious dishes, and a sprinkling of star power. With over 200 episodes showcasing guests like Robert De Niro, Dolly Parton, and Cher, it’s clear this podcast knows how to serve up a feast—not just for the belly, but for the soul.

The full interview with Gillian is now out, bubbling with laughter, insights, and perhaps a spot of existential dread, just like our favorite sci-fi series. Grab a seat at the table; the conversation is just getting started.