When I was first pitched the show, I was like, 'Oh, God, a soapy show called 'Mistresses.'' But it wasn't that at all. It wasn't a bunch of women pulling guns on each other and stabbing each other in the back. We really have a core friendship.

Jes Macallan’s quote reflects her initial skepticism about the show Mistresses, which she was pitched as a soapy drama that she feared would be filled with typical, exaggerated tropes. She was concerned that the show might feature women who were constantly fighting, betraying each other, and engaging in dramatic confrontations. However, after further involvement, Macallan realized that Mistresses was not the typical “catfight” drama but instead focused on a core friendship between the female characters, emphasizing strong emotional bonds and solidarity.

The quote highlights the misconceptions that can arise when judging a show based solely on its title or initial concept. Macallan's surprise at how the show handled the theme of friendship between the women suggests that it provided a more nuanced and empowering portrayal of female relationships. Rather than focusing on conflict and rivalry, the show explored how these women supported each other through life’s challenges, providing a more authentic and positive representation of female friendships.

Macallan’s statement also serves as a reflection of her personal experience with the show and her character’s role in it. She appreciates that the show portrays genuine connections between the characters, allowing them to be complex and multidimensional. This suggests a deeper exploration of women’s relationships, where the focus is not just on drama but on real emotions and shared experiences.

The origin of this quote stems from Macallan’s involvement in Mistresses, where her role in a series that is often stereotyped as dramatic and superficial contrasts with the more thoughtful and supportive relationships that are actually central to the plot. This insight into the show emphasizes Macallan’s appreciation for strong, supportive friendships portrayed in the media and underscores the importance of moving beyond clichéd depictions of female relationships.