An Interview With Cathy Keenan (Liz O'Rourke on Degrassi)

Mark: When you were first cast in an extra on Degrassi Junior High for the 1986/87 season, when and how did you make the transition from an extra to the ongoing character Liz O' Rourke?

Cathy: I'm not exactly sure how the transition between extra and principal character took place. I guess as the show grow they needed to introduce more of the characters of the school.

Mark: What have you been doing since Degrassi ended? What education do you have?

Cathy: Since the show ended I went to University to study media arts which was a four year program, and I graduated 2 years ago. I've been working in production in both film and television.

Cathy: My sister Anna (she played Rainbow on the show) is also taking the same program I took at school and she aspires to be the greatest director that ever lived! So look out world!

Mark: Do you still keep in touch with the cast or crew?

Cathy: I still keep in touch with Amanda Stepto and I occasionally run into Angela and Maureen (the twins).

Mark: Did any of the actors date each other? Was there any tension between any of the actors? Did you all get along?

Cathy: As for who was dating who on the show I haven't the slightest. As far as I remember everyone pretty much got along with each other. I was kinda cool that way.

Mark: How different/similar are you to Liz?

Cathy: I wasn't really all that similar to Liz other than being shy at times. I don't believe in her stance on abortion, but all in all she was an interesting character.

Mark: Do people recognize you as Liz? Do you still look the same as when you were on Degrassi (bleached hair, funky clothes, shaved head or long hair)????

Cathy: Yes sometimes people still recognize me, and it's weird because I don't look anything like her anymore. My hair is longer.

Cathy: I am glad I had the opportunity to be apart of Degrassi. It was a great experience! Besides it seems like it's been quite the ice breaker when meeting people.