CR 034: Vivian Kerr on Acting, Directing, and the Joys of Being the Boss

The writer, director, producer, and actor discusses her latest films, “Scrap” and “Séance.”

Vivian Kerr, photo by Dana Patrick

Vivian Kerr cut her teeth working as an actress in television, with appearances in Grey’s Anatomy, Castle, Masters of Sex, and New Girl, among others. But in 2022, she became more widely known as a feature film writer, director, producer, and star when her indie film, Scrap, had its world premiere at the Deauville American Film Festival in Deauville, France. For more than two years, the film screened at dozens of festivals, amassing awards and accolades, and in December 2024 found a home on streaming platforms, including Apple TV+ and Amazon Prime.

Although directing a debut feature film—particularly one starring veteran actors Anthony Rapp (Rent, Dazed and Confused) and Lana Parrilla (Once Upon a Time, Lost)—might sound intimidating, Kerr says she felt right at home in the role. “I’ve been watching directors for 20 years,” she says. “Even when I would guest star on TV shows, I was always on set. I never wanted to go back to my trailer. I would stand i…