Although I was a youth in the 1980’s, I admit that I eschewed pop music like the plague, and because of that mindset, it has only been within the past ten years or so that I have become aware of much of the music I missed as I was growing up. A couple of years ago, I had the joy of watching Summer of Dreams on the Hallmark Channel, and although I had heard of Debbie Gibson, I had no idea who she was (which sounds ridiculous, I know, but I kid you not!). Thankfully, I was smitten with the entire cast of the movie as well as the delightful storyline, and as a result, I made incredible connections, especially with the young people in the movie (I was a music teacher many moons ago, and this story resonated with me on a profound level.), and many of them I have watched mature and spread their wings in the past couple of years as their careers have progressed in amazing ways. When the sequel to Summer of Dreams was announced, I took the chance that perhaps Debbie would be able to grant me a brief interview in spite of her hectic schedule. To my absolute delight, Debbie did just that before she departed for Asia’s big tour event, and I am immensely grateful to be able to share our Q & A session with my readers before the massive premiere tonight (September 8th)!

Debbie Gibson Credit: Copyright 2018 Crown Media United States LLC/Photographer: David Dolsen

RH: Your first Hallmark movie was Summer of Dreams a couple of years ago. Were you a Hallmark fan before coming to make this movie?

Robert Gant, Debbie Gibson Credit: Copyright 2018 Crown Media United States LLC/Photographer: David Dolsen

DG: I was a fan for sure! I love how there’s a group of beloved actors that do mostly all of the movies. But, since becoming a part of the Hallmark family, I’ve become obsessed! It’s running on a loop in my home at all times.

Debbie Gibson, Robert Gant Credit: Copyright 2018 Crown Media United States LLC/Photographer: David Dolsen

What was most memorable about this experience for you?

It’s hard to pick one thing but. I would say just in general being able to reunite with the cast. It’s a fabulous group of people who are great at their craft and genuinely nice. What better way to spend your time?!

You have been on a few celebrity reality shows, and many may remember you from Dancing With the Stars in 2017. I was very inspired by you as a contestant and when you were so open about your battle with Lyme Disease. Why did you choose to be so open about your struggles, and how do you think that has helped others with similar physical struggles?

Debbie Gibson Credit: Copyright 2018 Crown Media United States LLC/Photographer: David Dolsen

I choose to say “challenges” as opposed to “struggles” and use words like “overcoming” as opposed to “fighting” … I find it more empowering! There are so many people sitting home going through something. It’s no fun to see entertainers just showing off all the time. I love connecting on a human and spiritual level with my audience. I find people sharing their stories with me therapeutic too, so I will always be as open as I can. I had a gal say she got on her treadmill after seeing me and after being in debilitating pain for years. That’s worth way more to me than the mirror ball trophy!

Briefly tell us what the fans can expect from this upcoming film Wedding of Dreams. Any special moments or behind-the-scenes stories?

Debbie Gibson Credit: Copyright 2018 Crown Media United States LLC/Photographer: David Dolsen

There were tons of laughs and songs. “Life’s a musical” is my motto! My dog Joey kept us all laughing too! He bonded with so much of the cast and crew! You’d see this twelve-pound mini dachshund leaping toward a tattooed bearded guy. The best!

Debbie Gibson Credit: Copyright 2018 Crown Media United States LLC/Photographer: David Dolsen

Also, is this the last in the saga, or do you believe there is the chance for yet another film in this series?

Honeymoon in Paris anyone? Or a musical series like Glee? I’m just sayin’…

Debbie Gibson Credit: Copyright 2018 Crown Media United States LLC/Photographer: David Dolsen

Those who know me well are aware of the fact that when it comes to professional musicians and other artists, I am not easily impressed. My expectations of those within the arts extend far beyond glittering expertise, exquisite appearances, and entertaining performances. Genuine artists expand their reach beyond the surface to make sincere connections with their fans, and while they cannot possibly connect with every person who reaches out to them, I believe that “cultural icons” and “pop stars” should attempt to be more than merely a pretty face with a scintillating collection of hits and a “diva” mentality. In fact, there are many gifted performers out there to whom I refuse to lend my support because they do not meet my self-imposed standards of excellence. 

Thankfully, Debbie is so far removed from facades and artificiality that I can readily launch my support in her direction on a wide variety of levels. Not only is she impeccably talented and artistically involved in every step of any given project on which she is blessed to work, but she is one of the most down-to-earth leading ladies Hallmark employs, at least in my opinion. It is rare to find an artist of Debbie’s caliber who meets her obligations with amazing propriety, grace, and style. While our interview is brief, she was savvy enough to answer the questions that were most relevant to me with joy, integrity, and even a bit of good-natured humor. After nearly three years of interviewing an extensive assortment of entertainers, I can state with unequivocal conviction that Debbie Gibson is in a rather distinctive class of her own that she has earned through perseverance, courage, and wholehearted allegiance to her ideals and principles.

I hope that everyone will tune in to the Hallmark Channel tonight (September 8th) for one of the highly-anticipated sequels of the year, Wedding of Dreams, featuring the multitude of talents that the incomparable Debbie Gibson will provide in her inimitable way. Additionally, please consider visiting all her links below and following her where applicable. Very seldom do I find women whom I consider role models that transcend age and gender stereotypes, but I can say with comprehensive reliability that Debbie is one whose talent, gifts, and outlook are timeless, inspirational, and unifying for all who choose to open their hearts to the message she continues to advocate in the way she chooses to live her life and conduct her career. If there is a woman who demonstrates that you can essentially do anything you want in this world if you are willing to work hard for it and not give up, that is Debbie Gibson, and I cannot thank her enough for taking time to answer the seemingly paltry questions of a freelance journalist like me. 

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