Alfre Woodard, a revered actress with an illustrious career marked by numerous accolades including 18 Emmy nominations, four wins, a Golden Globe, and three SAG Awards, recently delved into her compelling role as CIA official Jac Bradford in 'The Last Frontier' and teased her involvement in the upcoming Duffer Brothers-produced series, 'The Boroughs'. Woodard's extensive filmography spans various genres, from sci-fi like 'Star Trek: First Contact' to historical dramas like '12 Years a Slave', showcasing her remarkable versatility.

Woodard's portrayal of Jac Bradford in 'The Last Frontier' is particularly noteworthy as the character was originally conceived as a 'crusty old guy'. When offered the role, Woodard insisted that not a single word of the script be changed to feminize the character, a testament to her belief in embodying the human being within the role. She explains that focusing on the essence of the character, rather than gender stereotypes, allowed her to explore Bradford's complex nature. Bradford, a disciplined operative with a military background, leads a covert CIA project initiated by Sidney's father, her protégé. She operates with complete autonomy, training agents with a specific mindset to carry out missions for the 'protection of democracy', believing that sometimes 'people are expendable' in the service of this higher purpose. Woodard emphasizes Bradford's discreet nature, not lurking in shadows but operating with the precision and loyalty of someone committed to the foundational pillars of the country, irrespective of its leaders.

The intricate relationship between Jac Bradford and Sidney forms a core dynamic of the series. Having known Sidney since childhood, Bradford saw potential and a reflection of herself in the younger agent, bringing her into the secret operation. Despite Sidney's personal struggles and romantic entanglement with criminal Havlock, which Bradford immediately recognized with disgust, Bradford maintains a pragmatic view. While disappointed, she prioritizes the mission, knowing Sidney possesses the 'chutzpah and the goods to get the job done'. Woodard highlights Bradford's lack of sentimentality; for Bradford, personal feelings are fleeting and secondary to the ongoing work. Even a sense of betrayal, such as when Sidney steals the archive in the finale, is met with a sharp, memorable 'You bitch', reflecting a momentary human reaction within an otherwise unyielding, mission-focused persona.

Reflecting on her iconic career, Woodard compared Jac Bradford to other powerful female roles she has played, such as Mariah Dillard in 'Luke Cage' and the President in 'State of Affairs'. While these characters also commanded authority and decisiveness, Bradford stands out for her extreme discipline, minimal movement, and unwavering focus. The role allowed Woodard to delve into a character that demands 'high protocol' and an 'ease of being' despite the intense covert operations she manages.

Looking ahead, Woodard expressed excitement for 'The Boroughs', a Duffer Brothers-produced series for Netflix. She was drawn to the project primarily by its exceptional cast, which includes Alfred Molina, Bill Pullman, Geena Davis, Denis O'Hare, and Clarke Peters. A unique aspect of the production was that the majority of the lead cast members were over 62, creating a vibrant and fun on-set environment where 'HR couldn't tell us nothing'. The series takes place in a retirement community, hinting at a 'horror, supernatural thing' that is both quirky and scary, with characters facing death. Woodard recounted the seven-month shoot in Albuquerque, enjoying the experience despite the desert's high altitude and its effects on skin.