Why do they shoot CSI: Miami—one of the most-watched TV series in the world—on a soundstage in L.A. rather than in Miami, which has just as much sunshine and a more authentic look? Emily Procter, the show’s female lead, has a theory: “They think we’d have too much fun in Miami,” she said. “We do go to Miami about four times a year. We start the season there and end it there. It’s like an end-of-schoolyear treat.” Procter, who plays ballistics expert Det. Calleigh Duquesne—alongside the show’s star, David Caruso—recently shot CSI: Miami’s 100th episode.

“Everyone gets along very well,” Emily said of cast and crew. “We have great relationships. Caruso is very intelligent and has a very wry sense of humor—which some people don’t get, but we do.” Of her own role, Emily said, “I think of my character as a real-life friend. But Calleigh is so technology-oriented, and I’m really not that way at all.”

Prior to CSI, Emily played one of Tom Cruise’s girlfriends—before Renée Zellweger—in the film Jerry Maguire. Does she still see Tom? “He probably doesn’t even know I’m still in the business,” she said, laughing. “Once, at a premiere, I stepped on the red carpet, and there was this terrific roar. I thought, ‘That can’t be for me,’ and turned to see Tom had just come onto the carpet behind me.

“I can tell you,” she said, “his smile, in person, is real.”

 

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Brady's Bits
 

Emily Procter also is the lead singer of a band called White Lightning. “We have two singers, a pianist, two guitarists and a part-time sax player,” she said. “And I’m executive-producing a film about the country-music scene.” Emily told me she’d like to have children one day. “I had a wonderful grandfather,” she said, “and I wish to give my dad a grandchild.” I then asked about an interesting quote of hers I’d read: “I like being an actress because I like to play with guys.” At least, that’s what I thought she’d said. But Emily swiftly corrected me: “To play with guns. Not guys, guns.” I liked it better the first time.


 

Personal

Born Oct. 8, 1968, in Raleigh, N.C. Single.

 

Why You Know Her

She was White House associate counsel Ainsley Hayes in The West Wing, 2000-02; she plays ballistics expert Det. Calleigh Duquesne on CSI: Miami.
 

What You Don’t Know

She’s known for helping friends paint; her favorite song is “Little Wing” by Jimi Hendrix; and she loves to drive her 1982 Ford Bronco.
“I fell in love with it at first sight,” she says.

Did you have a childhood nickname?
My father called me Slick.

Favorite food?
Cotton candy.

Favorite gadget?
The Leatherman—it can do anything and everything.

Favorite phrase?
I plead the Fifth…

Your pet’s name?
Kevin. It just seemed to suit him.

Describe your perfect day.
Any day I get to be outside in the sunshine.