NBCHost:
Welcome, Rhonda!

Rhonda Ross:
Hi everyone!

NBCHost:
Angie, Michigan Rhonda, on "Another World" was the character of Nick Hudson the one who attacked you in the parking lot? What is it like to work with Eric Stuart?

Rhonda Ross:
In terms of who attacked Toni in the parking lot -- you'll have to tune in to the next few episodes. Believe me, we won't keep you in suspense for too long!!

NBCHost:
Kristen VA: Which actor do you prefer the one who plays Tyrone, or Chris? Tyrone is sooooo hot!

Rhonda Ross:
It's impossible for me to choose between Eric and Henry (and Toni might have some trouble choosing between them in the future - too!!) They're both great looking and wonderful actors but their characters are so different. I like qualities in them both!!

Rhonda Ross:
Eric Stuart Morgan is wonderful!!! He's obviously a talented actor, but off-screen he's fun and smart and has become a good friend of mine -- which makes filming our scenes together all the better!

NBCHost:
Kristen VA: Rhonda, are your dreds real?

Rhonda Ross:
Yes, Kristen, they are!! I started locking my hair about two and a half years ago. And I am so happy!

NBCHost:
hey there! First of all, i really enjoy your character on AW. Do you feel that by your last name being Ross, you have been given an extra special boost into the entertainment world? Did you always want to persue a career in that field? If not, what would you have chosen? thanks... keep up the fabulous work!!!! tara from virginia

Rhonda Ross:
I think, like anything in life, my last name has positives and negatives. I'm proud to carry the last name "Ross" and I'm sure that it has opened some doors, but it's also turned some people off because of their pre-conceived notions. In the end, one's actions dictate her fate, so I just study my crafts and work hard and hope the results speak for themselves.

NBCHost:
Kristen, VA: Do you pay attention to the other plots aside from your own, Like Vicki and Shane?

Rhonda Ross:
I read each and every script from cover to cover!!! I do!!! This is a very exciting time to be part of AW! As you know, Michael Malone just joined us as head writer and with his scripts ALL the story lines have taken off!! I find myself harassing the xerox guys to hurry up and print the next installment because I can't wait!!

NBCHost:
Ramsay From Pennslyvania 9:00 PM Did filming the rape scene seem alittle too real?

Rhonda Ross:
I think what happened to Toni in that parking lot is everyone's greatest fear. Yes, it is difficult to put yourself through that kind of ordeal. In addition, the repercussions of the rape will be with Toni for the rest of her life. But, no, it did not seem "too real", because I had a set full of supportive people making sure that I was okay - producers, make-up artists wardrobe people and crew members were all looking after to me. Also, as an actress, I'm very lucky that I can be a vehicle, not a vessel, for the pain and violence and allow it to move through me. I'm also thankful that Michael Malone has written a story line that will allow me and Toni to grow, heal and conquer this terrible attack.

NBCHost:
Kriste,VA: I really want to work on a soap, how did you get hired for AW?

Rhonda Ross:
Well, Kriste, everyone's story is different. But I auditioned for the show along with a lot of other actresses. There were three auditions and finally a screen test. If you want to act my suggestion is that you first, study and prepare yourself 'cause you won't have time to do it after you get a job! Then try to secure yourself an agent, because these casting people only see actors with representation. (No more getting spotted at the soda fountain.) So good luck. I wish you the best.

NBCHost:
Kristen,Va: Have you worked on any other soaps before AW.

Rhonda Ross:
"Another World" is the first soap opera I've ever been on and I'm thrilled!!!!

NBCHost:
Are you anything like Toni? What personality does Toni have that you have?

Rhonda Ross:
I think that actually I'm a lot like Toni when it comes to her main personality traits. I'm very aggressive and competitive. Definitely a type "A" personality. But Toni has a little trouble opening up and having close relationships. I don't have that problem. I am happily married to a wonderful man named Rodney Kendrick. Oh yeah, Toni's a health food nut - my diet is the junkier the food the better!!! No vegetables for me!! YUCK!!!

NBCHost:
Jan, Port Townsend, WA. Hi Rhonda, thanks for going online with your fans. I'd like to know if you have inherited your Mom's singing talent? Are you going to sing on AW?

Rhonda Ross:
I do sing. As a matter of fact that's what I have been doing for the last several years prior to signing on with "AW"!! I sing Jazz and often perform with my husband (who by the way is a recording artist with PolyGram Records). So keep an eye out for our performances and CD's!!!

NBCHost:
Marie, Idaho Rhonda, who is your favorite cast member to work with? What other things have you acted in?

Rhonda Ross:
The truth is that I get along with everyone on the set. It's really an ensemble atmosphere!! And even the actors that I don't work with regularly sit with me and we talk and laugh between our scenes. I don't have a favorite, but some that come to mind are Amy Carlson, Kim Rhodes, Tom Eplin (Tom is really great!!) Oh yeah and Joe! I can't forget Joe Barbara, he cracks me up!!

NBCHost:
Jan, Port Townsend, WA. Rhonda, could you please tell us where you got your training? Where did you go to school?

Rhonda Ross:
I went to Brown University and even though I got my degree in African-American History, I submerged myself in ALL the theatre courses. Acting, Directing, Writing, I love them all!!!

NBCHost:
vicky/california, hi ronda! i really loved your scenes with josie today. do you know if the actors who portray josie & gary are really dating in real life? and is your character gonna hook up with that fine young lawyer, but i really do love chris..he is the man. keep up the excellent work!!

Rhonda Ross:
Well, Vicky, unfortunately I don't know exactly what's going to happen. I don't know who Toni will choose. They are both so great!! We'll both have to wait and see - but I'll tell Eric (Chris) that you think he's the MAN - I'm sure he'd appreciate that!!!

NBCHost:
Auntee from NC Rhonda Great Job. Will you be attending the Black Theater Festival in W-S North Carolina Aug 4-9?

Rhonda Ross:
Why don't you send me some information on it.

Rhonda Ross
Another World
30 Rockefeller Plaza
NY, NY 10112

NBCHost:
When i see a person cying when they are acting, it seems so fake. But on TV how do they make it look real. I think you looked like you were really crying. Thai, CA

Rhonda Ross:
I hope you didn't think mine looked fake, because take my word for it - THEY WERE REAL!!!! This stuff is so emotional, it's easy to relate to it. I cried all the way through the rehearsals. Once the tears came, I just let them flow.

NBCHost:
I read somewhere that your character is named after author Toni Morrison. Who are some of your favorite writers? GLOW_BUG1

Rhonda Ross:
Yes, it's true and it felt like fate because not only do I absolutely love, Toni Morrison, I actually wrote my thesis about her. I've read everything she's ever written!!! I've also read everything by Alice Walker, Maya Angelou, Gloria Naylor. I've just started to read Walter Mosely. They're all great!!!!

Rhonda Ross:
Thank you all so much!! I know I wasn't able to get to all of you, but feel free to write to me at the studio. ( I gave the address earlier) I read all of my mail and am so thankful for all of the support that I've received. I look forward to hearing from you!!

Rhonda Ross:
Take care!!!!!