The critically acclaimed comedy from NBC announced recently that Oscar nominated actress, Patricia Clarkson will be coming on to play Ron Swanson's first ex-wife, Tammy 1. The character earned her moniker for having the same name as Ron's second ex-wife. Though the names are the same, Executive Producer Michael Schur has insured that the new character won't be a clone of Ron's other ex; “...all we knew is that we didn’t want to do the same thing we did with Tammy 2.”
The reveal that Ron's first ex would be joining the show came at the end of the third season, and inspired a slew of suggestions and speculation as to who would fill the role. Oprah, Glenn Close, and even Nick Offerman himself, were among the names tossed around as potential candidates. In the end it would be Clarkson that earned the gig though. Too bad, as not putting Offerman in drag seems like a missed opportunity.
Known more for her work in film, Clarkson has stared in several award winning movies, including The Green Mile and Vicky Christina Barcelona. But the actress also spent time on the small screen, with roles in Six Feet Under, and the former NBC comedy, Frasier. Her new character will put Tammy 2 to shame when it comes to instilling fear, that is if the reactions the character's arrival garnered in the third season finale are any indication.
Clarkson and the rest of the cast can be seen in Parks and Recreation's fourth season, which starts Thursday, September 22.
