The CBS comedy “Ghosts” is not just about humor and innuendo but also delves into the historical stories of the lively ensemble of spirits who inhabit Woodstone Estate. The diverse group of ghosts includes Thorfinn, a Viking; Sasappis, a member of the Lenape tribe; Hetty Woodstone, a Victorian lady; Alberta Haynes, a prohibition-era jazz singer; Flower, a charismatic hippie; Pete Martino, a socially awkward Pinecone Trooper leader; and Trevor Lefkowitz, a wealthy Wall Streeter. These characters bring a unique blend of personalities and stories to the show.
Recently, the human embodiments of five ghosts visited the Library of Congress in DC to see historical items curated specifically for their characters from the Library’s collections. The experience was described as deeply moving by the actors, who play Trevor, Pete, Alberta, Hetty, and Sasappis. They expressed gratitude and a sense of connection to their characters and ancestors through the artifacts from different time periods. The visit provided a unique opportunity for the cast to further explore and understand the backgrounds of their roles.
The actors shared their emotional experiences during the visit, with Danielle Pinnock expressing feelings of joy and heaviness at the sight of the curated artifacts. Román Zaragoza also felt a sense of sadness when reflecting on the displacement of the Lenape people. Rebecca Wisocky, who plays Hetty, mentioned her interest in diving deep into Victorian-era literature to better embody her character. The actors’ dedication to their roles and their willingness to learn about and connect with the historical contexts of their characters is evident in their responses.
The artifacts shared with the cast members ranged from the oldest to the most recent, reflecting the diverse backgrounds and eras of the characters they portray. Sasappis was represented through a map of Indigenous Territories of the Hudson River Valley and accounts of first contact with Europeans. Hetty’s artifacts included articles on societal issues like cocaine addiction and child labor, as well as literary works analyzing the depiction of women. Alberta’s artifacts showcased the end of prohibition and jazz music history. Pete’s artifacts included comic books and a D&D game, while Trevor’s artifacts focused on the finance industry.
Overall, the experience at the Library of Congress provided the cast of “Ghosts” with a deeper understanding of the historical contexts that shaped their characters. The visit allowed them to connect with the past and see their roles in a new light. By exploring the curated artifacts, the actors were able to enhance their performances and bring a richer, more authentic portrayal to the show. The blend of humor, history, and heartfelt storytelling in “Ghosts” continues to captivate audiences and highlight the importance of honoring the past while moving forward with the present.
