A challenging and ‘itchy’ role

Aside from the odd film role, Calista Flockhart stepped out of the limelight after wrapping up “Ally McBeal” in 2002 to focus on raising her son, Liam. Then, three years ago, Liam started elementary school and Flockhart went back to work, joining the cast of another network drama, “Brothers and Sisters.” Though happily a part of the ensemble until now, Flockhart finds herself front and center once again as the new season of the ABC series focuses on her character Kitty’s battle with cancer.

But the hardest part of her job? “It’s itchy,” she says, motioning to the wig on her head. “Have you ever worn a wig for a long period of time? I’m going to need Tylenol by the end of the week.”

Not that she takes the duty of depicting such weighty subject matter lightly. “As an actress, it’s interesting to explore going through that, but it is a bit intimidating and challenging,” Flockhart admits. “I’ve done a lot of research and my life has sort of been all about cancer the last couple of months and it’s — you know, it’s a frightening place to be.”

Depending on the fate of her character, Flockhart admits she could get comfortable in the Walker clan. “Who knows what the future will bring,” she says. “When this show is over ... we’ll see where my life goes. But I’m not planning on taking another break or doing anything like that.”