Kristy Swanson Opens Up About ‘What If…’ Reunion With ‘The Chosen’ Creator Dallas Jenkins (EXCLUSIVE)
‘What If…’ returns for two nights only — plus a moving reunion with Dallas Jenkins and the cast
Fifteen years after its heartfelt debut, The Chosen creator Dallas Jenkins’ inspirational film What If… is returning to movie theaters nationwide for a special two‑night event on August 5th and 7th. Jenkins reunites with Kevin Sorbo and Kristy Swanson in an exclusive, never‑before‑seen bonus feature filmed just for audiences. This round‑table reflection brings the cast back together to revisit the story’s enduring message of love, faith and the mysterious turns life can take.
Audiences will have a rare chance to experience What If… on the big screen again — complete with a compelling and wise conversation between Dallas and the cast that unpacks the film’s legacy, and why it still resonates today.
Fans of The Chosen and Buffy the Vampire Slayer, get ready for a nostalgic treat! Actress Kristy Swanson, best known as the original Buffy, is reuniting with the cast of the 2010 faith-friendly film What If…, directed by The Chosen creator Dallas Jenkins.
In a heartfelt chat with Woman’s World, Kristy opens up about her memories on set, her admiration for Dallas, and how Luke Perry helped her land her iconic role as Buffy.
Woman’s World: What was it like working with Dallas Jenkins before he created The Chosen?
Kristy Swanson: What If… was before all of that. Every word in the dictionary for “amazing” applies to Dallas. He’s just so supportive — you could go to him for anything. I loved his creativity, his technical ability, his heart. I couldn’t have asked for a better experience.
WW: What was the atmosphere like on set? Any moments that stand out in your mind even now?
Kristy: The atmosphere was fantastic. Dallas really set the tone, and he assembled such an incredible team. It was a small, independent movie shot on location in little towns, and it felt like family. Dallas had his family and kids there, my son came to the set, Kevin Sorbo had his kids. It was just very special.
WW: What do you hope audiences take away from rewatching the film?
Kristy: Well, I think longtime fans will love it all over again. But I’m excited for new eyes on it too. It’s a story with a strong message. It doesn’t hit you over the head, but it stays with you. It’s entertaining, emotional and thought-provoking. You go through a roller coaster of emotions, but in the end, you walk away feeling good. It really has a little bit of everything — comedy, seriousness and a lot of heart.
WW: Did you sense, even back then, that it might go on to be something meaningful for people?
Kristy: I felt that when I first read the script. It was strong, it had a great message, and all the characters were written so well. But even when you’re on set making something good, you never know how it’ll be received. The good news is, it did well then — and now we get to re-release it! It’s a great story we get to revisit.
WW: Would you say the script was what drew you to the role in the first place?
Kristy: Yes, the whole project, really. The story, the message, the characters — it all just jumped off the page. As an actor, I have to see myself in the role and feel that I can bring something to it. And with What If…, I definitely felt that.
WW: Would you say you felt that same connection when playing Buffy?
Kristy: That’s funny! Luke Perry — God rest his soul — actually helped me get that role. It was his project first, and we knew each other socially. He told me, “Kristy, you’d be perfect for this part.” He encouraged me to audition. I still had to go through seven auditions, but I understand why he saw me in the role. It’s probably my everyday sense of humor that matched the tone.
WW: And now Buffy has become such a cultural icon! How do you feel about the continued interest in the franchise and and the rumors of a reboot?
Kristy: I’ve heard talk of a reboot for years! When they made the TV series, I was so tickled. I thought it was great that young girls would see this kick-butt female character every week. I grew up watching The Bionic Woman and Wonder Woman, so I was proud Buffy got to join those ranks. If they do make another one? I think that’s fantastic!
WW: Would you be open to a cameo if they asked?
Kristy: I would never say never. I was surprised they didn’t bring anyone from the movie into the original series—not me, not Luke, not Paul. But hey, if there’s a fun surprise cameo? Sure. I’d be honored!
Grab tickets to see What If… in theaters and Kristy in the exclusive round-table talk with Dallas Jenkins in a theater near you on Fandango!
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