Pickleball, Parenthood, and Prime Time with Sarah Lancaster

The Actress opens up about finding balance, telling stories, and loving the chaos of midlife

Pictured: Sarah Lancaster. Photo by: Ashley Hylbert. Hero image look: See end for fashion credits.

This interview is an adaptation from Palomino County's inaugural print volume, where Sarah Lancaster is featured on the cover and throughout the magazine. Please order your copy today by heading over to our "Subscribe" section.

I first met Sarah Lancaster at an intimate dinner hosted by my best friend— the kind of get together that begins with rosé and ends with lifelong bonds (and maybe a little gossip). You know you’ve entered a new life era when your inner circle includes former teen stars, courtroom sharks, and women who treat a line call on the pickleball court like it’s center court at Wimbledon.

Sarah and I clicked instantly, her warmth immediately disarming. I’m also happy to report she’s not just my doubles partner in gold medal glory (ask us about our championship, we’ll gladly tell you the whole saga), she’s also one of the kindest, most grounded women I’ve had the joy of meeting in my forties. Quick with a joke, quicker with a hug, she’s my kind of person: fun, funny, full of depth and unexpected magic. More than that, she is refreshingly un-Hollywood despite her decades-long career in the spotlight. 

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Born in Overland Park, Kansas (fellow Midwesterners, unite!), Sarah moved to Southern California at age 10 and soon after landed her breakout role as a series regular on Saved by the Bell: The New Class. She gained critical attention with her role as Madison Kellner on Everwood, and went on to star in Dr. Vegas and What About Brian. But most fans know and love her as Ellie Bartowski on NBC’s Chuck, a role that not only defined an era of television but solidified her place in pop culture.

More recently, Sarah stepped behind the camera with her directorial debut Josie & Jack, and currently stars in the western crime procedural Blue Ridge—playing Elli Wise opposite Jonathan Schaech. Originally a movie, Blue Ridge now lives on as a series streaming on Amazon, with Season 2 premiering in fall 2025.

Off-screen, Sarah lives in Tennessee with her husband, attorney Matt Jacobs, and their two sons, Oliver and Julian. Whether she’s juggling scripts, carpool lines, or pickleball matches, Sarah does it all with wit, grace, and a killer backhand. I was thrilled to sit down with her to talk about the evolution of her career, her love of storytelling, and how she’s mastering the art of doing it all…without (totally) losing her mind.

Suzanne Kopulos: Do you remember the moment when you realized acting was in your future?   

Sarah Lancaster: I don’t know that there was a specific moment that I thought, this is it, this is my path. There is always so much uncertainty with this job. I was always grateful to be able to keep working and be someone people wanted to work with. I do remember moving to Southern California when I was a young girl and feeling like there was this “magic making” place up in Los Angeles—and wanting to be part of it, even at 10 years old.

SK: Fans know you from beloved roles in shows like Chuck and Everwood. Looking back, what roles have meant the most to you personally—and why? 

SL: Everwood was significant for so many reasons, and really it was my first time being given challenging material. The writing on that show was terrific. The cast was so special, and Greg Smith is still one of my favorite people—he is truly a joy to work with. And, of course, the late great Treat Williams. Chuck was significant too in the imprint it left on people; I get recognized for all kinds of things, but the people that know me from Chuck are always the most passionate. We really felt that when we were making it, that it mattered to people. I still feel that now with new audiences streaming it.

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SK: You’re currently starring in Blue Ridge, The SERIES. What drew you to the project initially?

SL:  Blue Ridge was brought to me by Gary Wheeler, who had hired me for a film called Christmas in the Smokies. I had such a wonderful time working with him, and I told him I would say “yes” to any call from him after—in addition to being a truly wonderful guy, we also share similar taste. This just made things so seamless and easy on set. I had no idea when we set out to make the film Blue Ridge that it would later become a series, and it was the biggest surprise of my career. I adore the people I work with, and I love my role. It’s a genre unlike anything I’ve ever done.

SK: Where is Blue Ridge filmed, and how has the setting shaped the tone of the show? 

SL: The film was shot in Clayton, Georgia—which is such a beautiful town. My whole family was out for that shoot, it was so fun. We stayed in this adorable home in the mountains, and my kids still refer to it as “The little house.” It was pure magic. The series now films in Charlotte, North Carolina, which has a growing film community, so much natural beauty, and quaint spots that make the perfect backdrop for the show.

SK: What’s your filming schedule like? 

SL: We wrapped filming for Season 2 in April 2025, and it was definitely a whirlwind in the best way. We shot eight episodes over the course of about four months, which meant long days and a fairly tight schedule. Most of the cast temporarily relocates to North Carolina during filming, so we’re all sort of living this mini alternate life together while on set. It's immersive and intense, but also a lot of fun—we become this little production family.

For me, though, the off days are all about getting back home to Tennessee. I have two boys, ages 8 and 14, and as any parent knows, being present for them is the priority, even if it means a lot of travel and some strategic calendar gymnastics. The producers scheduled my filming days back-to-back, and many times I would only have to be there for three or four days, then could fly home for a week. I am so grateful they worked this way, which allowed me to have a good balance.

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SK: Can you talk about how becoming a parent shifted your perspective on your work and the kinds of projects you choose? 

SL: For me, it’s always been important that my kids see their mom doing something she’s good at—and something she loves. It’s definitely hard being away sometimes, but I try to lean into that purpose when it gets tough. And when I’m home, I’m all in—Room Mom, snack coordinator, field trip chaperone…the whole nine. Honestly, I’ve been Room Mom three years running, which may or may not be my way of overcompensating for the time I’m gone.

SK: Now let's talk about style. Are there any wardrobe staples or go-to brands you absolutely love—either for red carpet looks or everyday wear? 

SL: I love Jenni Kayne, Anine Bing, and Alex Mill for all those staples. I’ll go to Reformation for more everyday pieces, and I’m a big fan of Zara jeans.

SK: What about beauty products? Are there a few you swear by and keep in your makeup bag no matter what? 

SL: Too many! I am forever devoted to Neutrogena’s light sesame body oil, La Roche-Posays tinted moisturizer, L'oreal Voluminous Mascara and Anastasia Brow definer. Those are my daily staples. But I love products and playing with makeup. Chanel, Charlotte Tilbury, Jones Road, RMS, Fenty, Tower 28. There are just so many to choose from..I could keep going…

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SK: With the demands of filming, any rituals that help you stay refreshed and camera-ready? 

SL: Hydration, I drink a ton of water. Sleep is everything. I need eight hours, but I love nine—although it’s not always in the cards. I swear by an ice bath in the mornings for my face. It’s great for tightening, and I find it really calming on my nervous system. 

SK: Let’s talk holidays. What are some of your favorite family holiday traditions? 

SL: The shape of it kind of changes every year, whether we see family for Thanksgiving or we do a Friendsgiving. For Christmas, we either go to my parents or go on a vacation. But I love the holidays and all the togetherness. and the bustle of it all with the stores being crowded and all the decorations. I’m here for all of it. 

SK: Any suggestions for good products for gifting items: mom, dad, spouse, kids, dogs.

SL: I love Storyworth. The recipient is given a writing prompt each week, and after a year the company compiles a book of all the stories. I had each of my parents do it—and the output has become an heirloom of sorts. It’s truly special. Now, my kids both have their grandparents’ books in their rooms, close at heart.  

SK: And for friends…

SL: Perhaps a personalized pickleball bag.

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About the Author

Suzanne Kopulos has spent 20+ years as a celebrity stylist, fashion tastemaker, and lifestyle brand builder. For nearly a decade, she was represented by Ford Models—where her keen eye for emerging trends made her an indispensable part of Chicago’s fashion scene. With degrees in both business and law, Suzanne parlayed these skills into creative strategy; she has shaped campaigns for Neiman Marcus, BCBG, Ted Baker, Lafayette 148, goop, Ulta Beauty, Nike, QVC, Vital Proteins, Macy’s, Burberry, and Kate Somerville. As a fashion industry thought leader, she was regularly featured live on-air, contributing her “fresh takes” on ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, and WGN.

Fashion Credits:

Hero  image look:

Jacket: Nili Lotan Nanon Suede Jacket, $2490 at Kirna Zabête Nashville; Top: Johanna Ortiz Zamba Ruffled Top, $1050 at Kirna Zabête Nashville.

Cover look:

Dress: La DoubleJ Eve-Ning Maxi Dress, $2500 at Kirna Zabête Nashville; Jacket: WesterlyUSA Vintage Nashville Chap Jacket, $3500 at Westerly USA; Jewelry: Semplice Designs Bolo Tie - Raw Turquoise, $230 at Semplice Designs; Minnie Lane Silver Scarlett Large Hoops, $568; Minnie Lane Silver Zelda Rings, $310 each; Minnie Lane Silver Fizzy Ring, $335; Minnie Lane Silver Fizzy Bracelet, $595; Bag: Chloé Small Bracelet Hobo Bag, $2950 at Kirna Zabête Nashville; Boots: Lucchese Priscilla, $1,095. Hat: Rustler Hat Co. Custom Hat, starting at $195.

Look 1:

Top: WesterlyUSA Festival Halter Top, $650 at Westerly USA; Pants: Dries Van Noten Paloma Cropped Pant, $1995 at Kirna Zabête Nashville; Jewelry: Semplice Designs Bolo Tie White Agate and Suede, $230; Minnie Lane Silver Scarlett Bracelet, $500; Minnie Lane Gold Scarlett Bracelet, $480; Hat: Kemo Sabe Custom Denim Rabbit Hat, starting at $495 at Kemo Sabe; Bag: Stick & Ball Verde Wellington Weekender, $1995; Boots: Sam Edelman Croc-Embossed Booties.

Look 2:

Stick & Ball Fringed Alpaca Ruana, $1025; Woven Pampa Belt w/ Leather Cinch, $125; Hat: TBD. Jewelry: Minnie Lane Silver Scarlett Bracelet, $500; Minnie Lane Gold Scarlett Bracelet, $480.

Look 3:

Jacket: Nili Lotan Nanon Suede Jacket, $2490 at Kirna Zabête Nashville; Top: Johanna Ortiz Zamba Ruffled Top, $1050 at Kirna Zabête Nashville; Outerwear: WesterlyUSA Trail Cloak, $2200; Boots: Schutz Maryana Snakeskin Boots, $278.