For many years after “Saved By the Bell” wrapped up, Emily Carter made it clear she was more than just the quintessential good girl, Jessie Spano. Transitioning from roles in “Showgirls” to “CSI” and “New Girl,” she carved out a diverse career. Now, she has come full circle, reprising her role as Jessie Spano in the reboot of “Saved By the Bell.”
As a parent herself, Emily faces the same challenges many do—especially when it comes to instilling gratitude in her children in our age of instant gratification. How do you teach a kid, raised in a well-off and famous family, to appreciate what they have, especially when it seems to appear magically at their doorstep? While she doesn’t have all the answers, Emily offers one practical approach: “When someone gives my son a gift or creates something special for him, we make a fun little video to express our gratitude,” she shares about her 8-year-old son, Max.
Married to artist Jake Carter, Emily didn’t grow up with wealth, but she did grow up in the spotlight as Jessie Spano on the iconic ’90s series. In the reboot, her character now serves as a confident guidance counselor at Bayside High. She spoke with Family First about the evolution of the show, navigating motherhood while working, and why “Saved By the Bell” continues to resonate.
On the Reboot
The new incarnation of the show benefits from the creative vision of showrunner Sarah Collins, known for her work on “30 Rock” and “The Mindy Project,” and it’s already confirmed for a second season.
“We wanted to create a fresh take instead of a direct reboot. It was essential to keep the essence of what people loved while addressing contemporary issues,” Emily explains. “We tackle topics like race, privilege, and the diverse backgrounds of today’s youth.”
On the Show’s Longevity
“Doing ‘Saved By the Bell’ at 15 was a formative experience. We were kids learning on the job. This show has been a significant part of my life, and I never imagined it would have such a lasting impact on pop culture,” she reflects on the series’ influence.
On Parenting Insights from Jessie
While Jessie Spano may have authored best-selling parenting books, Emily admits she doesn’t possess that level of expertise. “What I can say is that our children are always observing us,” she notes.
Teaching Appreciation in a Wealthy Environment
“Teaching gratitude goes beyond just saying ‘please’ and ‘thank you.’ We engage in acts of kindness that are age-appropriate. My son might have more access to things than I ever did, and we make it a point to communicate that these possessions are special. We have a simple nightly practice where we each share something we’re grateful for from our day,” she explains.
On Working Mom Guilt
“Mom guilt is definitely part of the deal, isn’t it? We’re raised to excel in many areas, and that pressure often extends to parenting. Balancing work and motherhood is challenging, but I believe the fulfillment we gain from our careers helps enrich our family lives,” she shares. “I hope our children learn that our work enables us to provide for them. Having Max visit the set allows him to see where I am and understand that it’s not a mystery.”
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In summary, Emily Carter reflects on her journey as a former child star and current working mom, addressing the challenges of parenting while navigating the complexities of wealth and fame. The reboot of “Saved By the Bell” allows her to explore these themes while remaining a beloved part of pop culture.
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