Anne-Marie Johnson on embodying “Jo Stock” and finding her truth in The Addiction Of Hope

Known for her grace, intelligence, and decades-spanning career, Anne-Marie Johnson steps into one of her most personal roles yet in The Addiction of Hope. As both star and producer, she anchors the film with empathy and strength, embodying Jo Stock’s journey of reinvention and self-discovery. Her work behind the scenes reflects the same purpose and integrity she’s brought to every role, championing stories that celebrate resilience, truth, and humanity.

We sat down with Anne-Marie to discuss what drew her to the project, how it mirrors real experiences in Hollywood, and the emotional honesty that defines her performance.

What drew you to the role of Jo Stock, and what did you see in her story that resonated personally?
It’s a rare occasion for an actor, at my stage in life and career, to be handed a script, a starring role, and a co-producer position. It’s even rarer to be handed one of the best roles I’ve ever had. And it’s almost unheard of to work on a project surrounded by incredibly talented people, who also happen to be long-time and forever friends. I know “Jo.” I’ve experienced similar fears and anxieties. I still do. But our lives are not similar with regard to many other things. But I know her, deep inside my bones.

You wear multiple hats in this project - actress and producer. How did you navigate those dual responsibilities?
It was challenging but never overwhelming. After over 40 years in the business, I was well prepared and comfortable with as many responsibilities as needed. Martin made sure all that could be done to be as prepared as possible with the script, his vision, and his plans was done. I also relied on my faith, which kept me calm and focused. And I reminded myself each morning that I was going to face the day with joy and appreciation.

Jo’s journey explores aging, identity, and relevance. How did you approach portraying those layers authentically?
As I mentioned earlier, I know “Jo.” As the former first VP of SAG and a long-term board member, one of my responsibilities at the union was to represent those who this industry and society have marginalized based on race, gender identity, ethnicity, age… And as an African American, I know what it’s like to be made to feel like an “other.” Combine that with being a woman and a person of a particular age, I’d be lying if I said I’ve never struggled with my “relevance” and “worth.” But I KNOW my worth. I try to ignore the noise. My life experiences helped me portray “Jo” as authentically as I could, which was easy to do because she’s such a well-written character, and Martin is such a wonderful director.

What did you find most emotionally challenging about this role?
My relationship with my mother was fantastic. She was my best friend. So, her death in 2005 rocked my world to the core. Although “Jo’s” relationship with her mother is completely opposite, I drew on my love and pain and longing to hopefully capture “Jo’s” pain. Those scenes were not necessarily challenging but they were emotionally exhausting.

How did working with Martin A. Gottlieb as both writer and director influence your performance?
Martin knew exactly what he wanted, which made my job as an actor extremely easy. It was a dream come true. The best working experience in my life.

The film reunites several acclaimed performers. What was the atmosphere like on set among such a seasoned cast?
Warm. Respectful. Fun. Everyone came prepared and ready to work. No egos. No stress. No handholding. It was like a terrific dinner party.

How did you prepare emotionally and physically for the role of Jo Stock?
That’s not my style of acting. I don’t prepare for roles that don’t require a particular skill like portraying a nurse, mentally or physically ill person, etc. I just go by my gut, the script, and the director.

Did any of Jo’s lines or moments linger with you after filming wrapped?
The entire film lingered with me for quite some time. First time I’ve ever experienced anything like that. It’s crazy. I’ve worked in tv series and films for 40 years yet never had a character linger with me like “Jo.” I still cry when I see the film.

How does The Addiction of Hope speak to the realities of women in Hollywood, especially for women from diverse backgrounds, at a certain point in their careers?
It’s spot on. Martin and I met with a potential movie rep last year and he loved the film. But he thought the golfing scene would be tough for people to believe. “Who’s going to buy two Black women playing golf at a country club?” That ignorant comment pretty much sums up what women of color face in the industry. There’s always an additional process we have to go through, (that has nothing to do with our skill and talent), to “prove” that we can have similar life experiences as our white peers. Every actor of color has a story similar to the golfing comment. We’re always having to prove ourselves not only as actors, but as people.