(from Soaps In Depth, February 16, 1999)

The look of love is in Jennifer Hammon’s eyes. Indeed, Karen’s portrayer makes little effort to disguise her affection for actor John Livingston, her live-in beau of two-and-a-half years, and vice versa. Watching them huddled together at a table in ABC’s commissary, it’s not long before you realize that they’re one of those couples - you know, the mushy, lovey-dovey kind for whom public displays of affection are de rigueur.

Still, despite living in a town full of citizens who guard their privacy with unparalleled tenacity, these rising Hollywood stars have such a refreshingly open, laid-back attitude that it’s impossible not to live them - even if we are a teensy bit jealous. See for yourself as Hammon and Livingston sit down to discuss the ups and downs of Tinseltown, their secrets for a great relationship, and of course, Valentine’s Day.

Hearts and Flowers

Every February, a certain amorous archer takes aim at the hearts of lovers. Yet Hammon and her beau are keenly aware of the expectations that can arise during this annual lovefest. "Women commonly wish that men could read their minds," she observes, smiling. "But the deal is, you generally have to communicate what you want. We’ve decided that for Valentine’s Day, and for my birthday, which is coming up, if I want something, I have to ask for it."

You can bet she’ll get what she wants, too. "I love every day of my life with Jennifer," says Livingston, adding that he prefers daily tokens of affection over flashy holiday gestures.

For instance, the lovebirds have a great way of greeting one another after work. "We play games [like hide and seek]," Hammon laughs, pausing to peck him on the cheek. "Or we’ll chase each other around the house like 10-year-olds. It’s just this funny little ritual that we have, to make it exciting and special when we see each other."

She also pooh-poohs the popular misconception that two actors can’t have a healthy relationship. "We support each other on everything," she insists. "Johnny really inspires me."

However, she does admit to feeling awestruck by the more established Livingston shortly after she landed in Los Angeles. "I was still fresh in town, and he was this actor doing big movies," she grins, noting that their then-manager set them up.

By then, Livingston had tasted big screen success, appearing in the Sandra Bullock techno-thriller The Net and Ellen DeGeneres’ comedy Mr. Wrong. Though he concedes that the latter "flopped," he was glad to work with DeGeneres again in Ed TV, which is currently in theaters. "Once again, I’m playing an underling of hers," he laughs. "Ellen’s character runs a cable company that does a show about a regular guy named Ed, who’s played by Matthew McConaughey. I’m one of the people on her creative staff."

Torn Between Two Brothers

Fortunately, Livingston never has to play the underling to true love Hammon. "We have an awesome partnership and relationship," she says, beaming. "People [who are in relationships] have to make sure they’re taking care of each other."

Since fiances Joe and Karen finally are moving in together, perhaps they ought to take notes! "I would have some advice for Joe," Livingston pipes up. "Leaving in the middle of the night to go to your ex-girlfriend’s house - or running off to Greece with her - is not a good idea. I can’t believe some of the stuff he gets away with!"

Neither can Hammon, though she sees why Karen hasn’t put her foot down with her beau. "I read a book on the set about adults who’ve survived sexual abuse as kids," she notes. "There’s a fear of not being enough for your partner. So maybe Karen thinks she’ll lose Joe if she causes turbulence."

Still, if the neglected lady doc needs attention, who better to provide it than Joe’s own bro? "As Karen feels Joe pulling away, she may turn more to Frank," Hammon speculates. "He’s handsome, charming, and they share a connection."

As Cupid continues toying with Dr. Wexler’s aching heart, at least we know her portrayer has her very own Valentine to snuggle up with.

"John helps me stay grounded," says Hammon. "We’re such a support system for each other, emotionally and spiritually."

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