1923 Finale Exclusive: Julia Schlaepfer and Brandon Sklenar Reveal Emotional Episode 7 Details and Set Secrets**
Fans of “1923” know that the series finale delivered some of the most emotional moments of the season, especially for Alex (Julia Schlaepfer) and Spencer Dutton (Brandon Sklenar). In a recent interview, the stars opened up about the heart-wrenching scenes, their on-screen chemistry, and the special mementos they took home from set.
Julia Schlaepfer reflected on filming one of her most memorable scenes, describing it as one of the most special moments of her life. After the director called cut, she found herself in tears, embraced by her co-star, who made sure she was okay, stepping into a fatherly role both on and off screen. The raw emotion of that moment, she admitted, is something she’ll never forget.
The interview, hosted by Addison Hager of the Dutton Rules podcast, also included fellow cast members, but the spotlight was clearly on Julia and Brandon as they discussed the show’s powerful ending and the journey their characters took.
Julia, who plays British aristocrat Alex, and Brandon, who stars as Spencer Dutton, shared insights into how their characters’ love story was rekindled after a long separation—both in the narrative and in real life, as two years had passed between filming seasons.
One of the lighter moments came when Addison asked if they’d taken anything from the set as souvenirs. Julia excitedly revealed that she was gifted a stunning New York Central sign from the front of the train featured in episode 4.
The lighting crew even rigged it up with a dimmer so she could display it in her home. Both actors also kept their characters’ wedding rings, cherished symbols of their on-screen romance.
Brandon, meanwhile, managed to keep Spencer’s iconic hat, his passport, and a special smoking pouch—although the pouch was tragically lost in an Uber in New York City.
He also took home his well-worn set chair, which had become a personal fixture throughout the shoot. Though he joked about not being able to take the prop gun due to “laws or something,” the chair now holds a place of honor in his office.
The conversation turned emotional as they discussed the chemistry between Alex and Spencer. Despite the long break between seasons, Julia and Brandon said their connection was effortless. They didn’t need to rehearse much; the bond was simply there, something both attributed to Taylor Sheridan’s intuitive writing and casting. According to Julia, the writing was so strong it felt like performing a classic play.
Julia also recounted working with Harrison Ford, who played a pivotal role in her favorite scene. She described Ford as a generous, kind, and deeply compassionate leader who stepped in as a father figure during a particularly challenging day on set.
The birthing scene, filmed while Julia was bedridden and emotionally exhausted, became a profound experience for both actors. She shared how they connected on a deep level, giving each other support they didn’t realize they needed.
As the interview wrapped up, both stars expressed gratitude for their roles and the opportunity to bring such a moving story to life. Their performances as Alex and Spencer have left a lasting impression on fans, making the “1923” finale a truly unforgettable television moment.
—
