FAIRMONT, Minn. -
Some love it...some hate it. Actress Dianna Anderson says, "Some lady came up to me and she just says I just hate the show it is the dumbest thing I have ever seen."
And more than a million people watch it across the Midwest. Actor Mark Anderson says, "It's supposed to be dumb. I mean it's intentional."
A satiric soap opera on small town life, "As the corn grows" recently wrapped up its 100th episode. Executive producer Jeff Rouse says everyone has a connection to country living and this show reminds us all of our small town ties. Rouse says, "If you're from a small town, you will recognize these characters. Maybe not by name, but you'll recognize them as someone you'll know from home."
Living at the corner of sunshine and love in Sweet Swine County, Bonnie Fjelstad's character Mrs. Swanson believes problem can be solved with a cup of coffee and a good hot dish. Bonnie Fjelstad says, "So I am more of a gentile person."
Even with 55 appearances on the soap, Fjelstad says her fans keep her humble. Fjelstad says, "Did you see the last show? Oh yeah. Then you know it wasn't too good and then you try to strive to do better."
Dianna Anderson says the soap opera is colorful, like her character Minnie. Dianna Anderson says, "She just wants to add a little color to the Midwest."
But bold colors often bring bold opinions. Dianna Anderson says, "Some people love the show, some people hate the show, but they just can't stop watching."
And as long as people keep watching, she'll keep creating color.
