The cast of "Elle," the new "Legally Blonde" prequel series, found a unique way to connect during filming: by watching the original 2001 movie together. Danielle Chand, who plays Shannon in the series, exclusively told Page Six that the cast spent time in the room of lead actress Lexi Minetree, who stars as a teenage Elle Woods, to watch the film.
"It was funny watching the movie with Lexi because she knew all of the words," Chand said. "I think she’s watched the movie something like 150 times. We were just immersed, and loving it."
Reese Witherspoon executive produced the show, which is now streaming on Prime Video. "Elle" explores the formative years of Elle Woods in the mid-1990s after her family relocates from Los Angeles to Seattle. Minetree takes on the role of the younger Elle.
Chand's character, Shannon, is a popular student at Elle's new high school. In contrast to the confident sorority girl Elle becomes, the teenage Elle is eager to impress Shannon, who is the only student to show her kindness amidst peer ridicule. "Me and Shannon have a lot in common in terms of just being very welcoming and being very cheery," Chand remarked about her role. "Being new anywhere is scary and I always want to be a nice, welcoming face for anyone."
The series marks Chand's first major role. She recalled the emotional moment she received the news, running outside of her acting class to take the call from her agent. Upon hearing she had landed the part, she returned to her class for a group hug and began to cry.
The show also features the late James Van Der Beek, who filmed his scenes before his death in February at age 48. "I didn’t get to meet James Vander Beek," Chand stated. "But I’m really glad that he was able to be a part of the show and that his legacy will live on."
Chand added that those who worked with Van Der Beek described him as "just a delight to work with."
"Elle" has already been greenlit for a second season, though Shannon's storyline in the first season leaves her future open-ended. When asked about her potential return in Season 2, Chand responded, "You'll have to wait and find out."