'9-1-1: Nashville's' Kimberly Williams-Paisley talks juggling latest projects, giving back

NEW YORK CITY -- You may know Kimberly Williams-Paisley from beloved sitcoms like "According to Jim," or films like "Father of the Bride." Now, the actress is balancing multiple roles on screen, starring in hit drama "9-1-1: Nashville," while also hosting a fan-favorite reality dating show.

She sat down with entertainment reporter Joelle Garguilo to talk about her latest projects and what keeps her busy.

Williams-Paisley currently stars in "9-1-1: Nashville," where she plays a 911 operator, a role she says comes with unique challenges. Much of her performance happens over the phone, requiring her to react to intense emergencies without physically interacting with other actors on set.

"It looks like a ton of people just standing around looking at me and an AD on the other side of the room reading from the script," she said, describing the filming process. "Then I'm responding as if it's a very intense emergency."

Despite the unconventional setup, she says the experience is rewarding.

"It's fun to see the show when it's finally cut together. I'm like, 'Oh, that's what that sounded like or what it looked like.' TV magic," she said.

Williams-Paisley also shared her admiration for the real-life inspiration behind the show.

"I'm just so honored to be playing a first responder. What they do is so vital," she said, adding that many of the show's storylines are based on real emergencies. "They turn it up a notch, but it's based in truth."

Off-screen, the actress takes pride in making an impact in her community. She co-founded a nonprofit grocery store that provides free food to families facing food insecurity. The organization recently expanded to a second location, with plans to significantly increase the number of people it serves.

"The idea is people can come in and shop for their families and choose what they want instead of getting a handout," she said.

On top of her acting and philanthropy, Williams-Paisley is also hosting the reality dating series "Farmer Wants a Wife." She describes the show as "hysterical" and says this season, which features three farmers instead of the usual four, allows viewers to get to know the participants and their relationships more deeply.

"There's sparks flying this season," she said.

Looking back on her early career, Williams-Paisley reflected on her breakout role in "Father of the Bride," which she filmed at just 19 years old. She credits co-star Diane Keaton as a major influence during that time.

"She was just such an angel to me, such a great mentor. A very grounding force," she said.

As for what's ahead on "9-1-1: Nashville," Williams-Paisley kept details under wraps but promised viewers plenty of surprises.

"You ain't gonna see it coming," she said.

A new episode of 9-1-1 Nashville airs Thursday night on ABC.

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