10 Questions: Angie Harmon

We caught up with actress Angie Harmon, a busy mom to 3 girls – 4-month old Emery Hope, 3-year-old Avery Grace and 5-year- old Finley Faith. Angie chatted with Modern Mom about her docudrama, Living Proof – which is available on DVD today! – and chronicles oncologist Dr. Dennis Slamon’s breakthrough treatment for breast cancer. Angie plays Hollywood philanthropist Lilly Tartikoff, who was instrumental in funding Dr. Slamon’s research.

MM: What’s your definition of a modern mom?

A woman who is amazing at multi-tasking. I don’t know if that’s really ‘modern’ though — since moms have been doing this since the 50s, but it still holds true.

MM: What’s your secret to balancing career and family?

I have an incredible husband (retired football star Jason Sehorn) – he’s very hands-on and shares responsibility equally which makes it a lot easier.  He usually gets up early and does the morning shift. The girls love their daddy!

Also, I’m not going back to a 90 hour week right now. This time is for my little one – she’s only an infant for a short period of time and I want to be here.

MM: What did your parents teach you about parenting?

To have a sense of humor! I’m still learning things from them subconsciously – I realize that certain things I do came from them.

MM: What do you want to teach your daughters?

I want them to be decent, tolerant, and caring – and we truly show them by example. We also want them to know that life is an incredible journey and we’re blessed to live in the country we live in.  Our faith is very important to us – our girls know that they are never alone; they always have God with them.

MM: What’s your favorite family activity?

We’re low key! I love relaxing at home, swimming with the kids and a jumping on a bouncy in the backyard.

MM: Who do you admire most?

Actually – right now, Abraham Lincoln. I’m reading about his life — my dad was a history teacher and he recommended an amazing biography.  I admire Lincoln’s love and dedication to our country—despite significant challenges, her persevered and had the courage to stand by something he believed in.

MM: What is your greatest achievement?

I’d have to say my children and my marriage. This year will be eight years—the fact that we’ve lasted that long makes us “Hollywood royalty!”

MM: What product can’t you live without?

I always have Benefit eyeliner and mascara in my purse.

MM: What do you do when you’re feeling selfish?

I go shopping! Especially shoes. But, during a recession—like now–I just look in my closet at all of the shoes I already own! (laughing)

MM: What’s keeping you busy these days?

The DVD of Living Proof comes out today, May 5th. I shot the film during my first trimester with Emery. No one knew I was pregnant and I didn’t want to announce it until I knew everything was fine with the baby – so it was kind of a challenge.

I play philanthropist Lilly Tartikoff in the movie. It was an interesting role—Lilly is so loved and adored in our industry and she’s an incredible woman. What she has done–her fight for cancer, she has made her life so much more than just about her. It was an honor to play her.  And, all of the actors in the film donated our salaries to breast cancer research. I felt I had to be a part of this, I didn’t just want to.