Tori Spelling Reveals Nightmare Director Experience on 2003 Film Set
Tori Spelling has opened up about what she calls the worst filming experience of her career, describing a tense working relationship with the director of the 2003 sci-fi comedy Evil Alien Conquerors. The actress, now 53, shared her story on the August 9 episode of Stephen Baldwin's One Bad Movie podcast, detailing clashes that left her hoping she would be fired.
What went wrong on the Evil Alien Conquerors set?
Spelling said the friction started immediately. From her first moments on set, she claims director Chris Matheson repeatedly asked her to redo takes, far more often than her costars. The actress, who made an uncredited appearance in the film alongside comedians Chris Parnell and Diedrich Bader, said she was puzzled by the constant notes.
Matheson, who cowrote and directed the project, previously worked on the 1989 classic Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure and its 1991 sequel. He later cowrote the 2020 franchise entry Bill & Ted Face the Music.
From the moment I stepped on set, it was like I couldn't say one word without the director being like, 'Uh, Tori, can you do that again?'
Why did Spelling think the film would be a fresh start?
Spelling initially believed the movie, which required her to wear a big furry unibrow and furry feet, would help her escape what she called the forever persona of being Aaron Spelling's daughter. She received a straight offer for the role, meaning no audition was required, and hoped the wacky comedy would be a change of pace from her decade on Beverly Hills, 90210, where she played Donna Martin from 1990 to 2000.
Instead, she found herself clashing with Matheson, who allegedly asked her to deliver her lines with just a little bit less energy. Spelling found the note odd given the film's goofy tone.
How did the tension escalate on set?
The actress, who considers herself a strong comedic performer, said she never received such notes in comedy before. She recalled knowing exactly when the director would single her out for another take.
By the end I knew he'd go through the first take, and then he'd be like 'Cut!' And I'm like, 'Wait for it,' and he'd be like, 'Tori...' Every time!
The situation became so difficult that Spelling's agent requested she be uncredited in the film. She finished the project convinced Matheson hated her, going to set each day feeling like a puddle of anxiety.
She later watched the finished movie and admitted she was fine in it, though she wished she had done more with the role.
What did director Chris Matheson say in response?
Contacted by People magazine, Matheson offered a measured response: I'm sorry she felt that way. I like Tori personally. I just think we have some different ideas about comedy.
Evil Alien Conquerors ultimately skipped a theatrical release in the United States and went straight to DVD.
For audiences in Guyana and beyond, this story serves as a reminder that even established actors can face difficult working conditions. The entertainment industry, like any other sector, thrives when clear communication and mutual respect guide professional relationships. Spelling's willingness to speak openly about her experience also highlights the importance of transparency in creative workplaces, a principle that resonates well beyond Hollywood.