A version of this story first appeared in the June 26 issue of The Hollywood Reporter magazine. To receive the magazine, click here to subscribe.
In addition to being one of the most controversial conservative pundits on television, Ann Coulter has tried her luck at acting. In 2007, she made a few appearances on the Fox News series The ½ Hour News Hour. And now Coulter plays the U.S. vice president in Syfy's Sharknado 3: Oh Hell No! (July 22).
She spoke with THR from her book tour for Adios, America: The Left's Plan to Turn Our Country Into a Third World Hellhole, though she clearly was in no mood for a serious political discussion.
You're not known for acting. How do you like it?
I've been acting for years. I always act surprised when Marco Rubio says something stupid. My greatest acting performance was pretending to enjoy the movie Selma.
Where did you shoot your scenes?
We shot for a few hours at Sea World. Only two or three animals were harmed. Tops. Sushi was awesome.
Do you think you're a good actor?
I think I'm as good an actor as Lena Dunham, so no.
Then why did the producers offer you the job?
They couldn't come to terms with Pat Buchanan on the merchandising split.
Describe the role you played.
I play a hot babe in a brilliantly conceived story about what happens when you give mental patients a small film budget.
Did you talk politics with anyone on the Sharknado 3 set?
I converted one of the sharks to the Libertarian Party. That wasn't what I was going for, but it's a start anyway. The rest of them pretty much cowered in my presence. Some of them bowed.
Any good anecdotes about your interaction with the cast and crew?
That will all be in the trial transcripts.
Are you a fan of the Sharknado franchise?
The first time I heard "Sharknado" I thought it was a late-night infomercial for a new vacuum cleaner. Could have swore I ordered one once. Then I found out what it was and remembered that I grew up reading the Sharknado novels.
I hear you die in the movie. How?
I die of natural causes. Ahem, hello? The movie is called Sharknado. How do you think I die?
I also hear liberals are celebrating your onscreen demise.
Let's face it, a fake movie is the only way they could get rid of me.
What are some of your favorite movies and TV shows?
I watch The Walking Dead because I like to fantasize about an awesome world where if people don’t work, you just dust them off with a machete and move on. Also loved the ending of Thelma & Louise. Really funny and warm.
Are you one of those people who always sees political messaging in movies and TV shows?
The most irritating movie character for me was that cradle-to-grave commie, Mary Poppins.
Anyone in Hollywood you admire?
I loved Vince Vaughn’s passionate defense of our Second Amendment rights. It’s a shame he won’t ever be working again.
What do you think of the typical Hollywood political activist?
Extremely attractive; learning disabled.
Anyone in Hollywood secretly, or overtly, support you and your political positions?
More than you can imagine. We are everywhere.
Does your new book, Adios America, have anything in it related to the entertainment industry?
Sort of. I devote one entire chapter to why we should deport Michael Moore. He’s not an immigrant; he just has to go.
What’s the gist of your message in the book?
How moms on the go can make tasty, one-skillet dinners in just minutes!
I was under the impression it was about illegal immigration.
That was a joke, son.
Is there any reason Hollywood should heed the warnings in your book?
Yes. Imagine how expensive it’s going to be when you have to redub all your movies in Spanish. Of course, I guess they’ll get an immigrant to do that.
Email: Paul.Bond@THR.com