INTERVIEW: Courtney Thorne-Smith is Emma Fielding in Hallmark’s ‘Site Unseen’

On Sunday, June 4, Hallmark Channel is set to premiere Site Unseen, a TV movie based on Dana Cameron’s successful Emma Fielding novels. Playing the archaeologist at the center of the narrative is Courtney Thorne-Smith, best known for her roles in According to Jim, Ally McBeal, Melrose Place and Two and a Half Men.

In the movie, Thorne-Smith’s character unearths evidence of a 17th-century settlement in the coastal region of Maine. Although the discovery could have some large implications, her archaeological efforts are hampered by local treasure hunters and some suspicious murders.

The movie, premiering June 4 at 9 p.m., is part of Hallmark Channel’s Hallmark Movies & Mysteries series.

Recently, Hollywood Soapbox exchanged emails with Thorne-Smith about the TV movie and what audience members can expect. Questions and answers have been slightly edited for style.

How did you approach the role of Emma? 

I read several of Dana Cameron’s books before we started, which was such a luxury. It felt like cheating!

Was the production a difficult one? 

It was a wonderful production. The cast and crew were all so talented, and we were all happy to be working on such a fun project — a joy from start to finish.

Are you a fan of these TV murder mysteries? For fun, are you watching some of these whodunits? 

I am a fan, which always adds such an exciting element to any project. I grew up watching Hart to Hart and reruns of Columbo and McMillan & Wife, so it’s a treat to get to be a part of a great mystery.

Is it your hope that this project continues into more Emma Fielding mysteries? 

I would love to continue if the premise resonates with the audience. I love Emma, and Dana Cameron has many more great stories waiting to be turned into exciting episodes.

Did you have do some research on the topic of archaeology? Did you use the original book as inspiration?