In a recent interview, Ghosts star Rebecca Wisocky, known for her captivating role as Hetty Woodstone, shared insights about her character’s dramatic revelation in Season 3, Episode 8, titled “Holes Are Bad.” This episode delves into Hetty’s past, revealing the circumstances of her tragic demise in 1895.
Set against the backdrop of her historical hometown of York, Pennsylvania—once the nation’s capital—Wisocky’s portrayal of Hetty highlights the complexities of her character, who is both a figure of society and a ghost haunted by her past.
In this pivotal episode, viewers learn that Hetty’s death was a desperate act to protect her son from losing his inheritance due to her husband’s crimes. As police close in, Hetty takes a tragic step, demonstrating the lengths a mother will go to safeguard her child’s future.
Reflecting on filming this intense scene, Wisocky remarked, “It was really intense, I’ll be honest with you. Our show is a silly, screwball ensemble comedy, but it’s also clever and insightful, addressing profound aspects of human frailty and American history.”
Wisocky elaborated on Hetty’s vulnerability, noting that beneath her bluster lies a deep fear of loneliness. “The thing that prompts her to make this sacrifice is her concern for Flower, who might be left alone forever. It’s such a moving moment,” she explained.
The physicality of portraying Hetty added another layer to the performance. “It’s intense to perform every day in a corset and a period costume, which is beautiful but really uncomfortable,” she said. “And then to add a telephone cord around my neck—it’s a constant reminder of Hetty’s reality for 130 years.”
Wisocky praised the writers for skillfully weaving in story points throughout the series, allowing for a rich exploration of the characters. As they prepare for Season 4, she expressed excitement about the potential directions the show could take, highlighting its unique blend of humor and historical depth.
With her passion for the role and her thoughtful approach to character development, Rebecca Wisocky continues to shine as one of the standout performers on Ghosts, making Hetty a beloved figure among fans.