Characters Second Act Danielle Steel

Dash Hemming: The Honest Producer Behind the Indie Film

Overview

Dash Hemming appears in Danielle Steel’s Second Act as a film producer who values integrity over corporate power. Unlike the exploitative studio executives Andy Westfield once worked with, Dash operates in the independent film world, where creative control and personal trust matter more than a studio’s bottom line. He becomes Andy’s partner in producing Violet Smith’s manuscript as an independent movie, Tightrope, and later collaborates on a second film. Dash is defined by his honesty, enthusiasm, loyalty, and a willingness to take risks on talent rather than on marketable formulas. The text presents him as a contrast to the industry’s cynicism—a producer who “does it right” (as Andy says) and who genuinely cares about the stories he helps bring to the screen.

Plot Role

Dash serves as both a catalyst and a steady anchor in Andy’s reinvention. When Andy, recently fired as CEO of Global Studios, decides to champion Violet’s manuscript, he turns to Dash rather than to a more predatory producer like Dirk Howard. That choice—made in Chapter 7 and confirmed in Chapter 8—sets the entire indie film project in motion. Dash agrees to read the manuscript in any form, loves it overnight, and immediately proposes a coproduction funded equally by the two men. He also welcomes Andy’s offer to write the screenplay for free, saying “Go for it” with no hesitation. Throughout the narrative, Dash handles the logistical heavy lifting: securing Marilyn Gray as the female lead, negotiating with director Henry Mason, arranging for studio space, and organizing cast readings at his London facility. He also pushes Andy to attend the Golden Globes ceremony, recognizing that Andy needs to face his former Hollywood world to fully move on. In the final chapters, Dash is a continuing presence as the partnership makes a second movie, cementing his role as a long-term creative ally rather than a one-off contact.

Motivations and Traits Shown Through Actions

Dash’s primary motivation appears to be a love for authentic storytelling and a desire to work with people he respects. He does not chase prestige for its own sake; instead, he chooses projects and collaborators based on artistic merit and personal connection. Several traits emerge from his specific actions:

  • Honesty and directness: When Andy calls to propose the manuscript, Dash listens without pretense. He promises to read the material “on cocktail napkins or newspaper,” a remark that underscores his focus on the story’s quality rather than on polished formatting. Later, he honestly warns Andy about the challenges of independent filmmaking, even as he encourages him.

  • Generosity and trust: Dash offers to coproduce and cofinance the film without demanding a traditional studio deal. He trusts Andy’s judgment about the manuscript and about Andy’s ability to write a screenplay after a twenty-year gap. This trust is repaid when Andy delivers the script on time.

  • Playful humor: The dialogue between Dash and Andy is laced with teasing. Dash jokingly asks if Andy wears a ski parka on the beach, and later quips about Violet’s possible attributes when Andy offers to write the screenplay for free. This humor signals a close, informal friendship that cuts through the formalities of the film business.

  • Loyalty and patience: Dash does not give up on Andy when Andy is reluctant to return to Los Angeles for the awards ceremony. He insists, “He can’t hide forever,” and enlists Violet’s help to persuade Andy. When Andy finally agrees, Dash supports him—demonstrating a loyalty that goes beyond professional obligation.

  • Entrepreneurial spirit: Dash embraces the independent model precisely because it frees him from “studio bullshit.” He is excited by the chance to work with someone like Andy, whom he calls a “hero” for surviving the firing. Dash’s willingness to invest his own money and energy into an unproven story reflects his belief in risk as a source of creative reward.

These traits are shown consistently rather than told; the reader infers them from Dash’s decisions and words.

Chronological Arc

Dash’s arc is relatively flat compared to Andy’s—he enters the story as a capable, ethical producer and remains one. Key beats include:

  • Chapter 8 (first appearance): Andy calls Dash about Violet’s manuscript. They arrange a dinner at The Shed pub in London. Dash reads the manuscript overnight and proposes a coproduction funded equally.

  • Chapter 10 (screenwriting phase): Dash supports Andy’s decision to write the screenplay for free, agreeing to keep looking for other writers only if the draft doesn’t work. He also secures Marilyn Gray as the female lead, a major coup that validates the project’s potential.

  • Chapter 11 (production setup): Dash signs contracts with Andy and Violet, negotiates with director Henry Mason, and organizes casting sessions in London. He expresses delight that he “talked Andy into” coproducing.

  • Chapter 12 (filming begins): Dash’s studio hosts the cast readings. He ensures Violet is introduced as the original author, recognizing her emotional stake in the story.

  • Chapter 15 (Golden Globes tension): Dash argues with Andy about attending the ceremony, insisting that Andy has to face Hollywood. He partners with Violet to convince Andy, and later accompanies them to Los Angeles.

  • Chapter 18 (second film): Dash is again coproducing with Andy, now on a second movie filming at his London studio. His arc ends with the partnership firmly established, having grown from a single project into an ongoing collaboration.

Though Dash does not undergo a radical personal transformation, his role shifts from that of a supportive colleague to a true creative partner, sharing both risk and reward.

Relationships

Dash and Andy

The relationship between Dash and Andy is the most fully developed of Dash’s interactions. It begins with mutual professional respect—Andy calls Dash “one of the few who does it right,” and Dash calls Andy a “hero.” Their bond deepens through practical collaboration and genuine friendship. Dash teases Andy, drinks with him, and pushes him to face his fears. Andy, in turn, entrusts Dash with Violet’s manuscript and eventually with his own future as an independent filmmaker. The text implies that Dash becomes a key part of Andy’s support system, offering not just business acumen but emotional steadiness.

Dash and Violet

Dash’s relationship with Violet is more distant but respectful. He never meets her personally in the early stages; Andy acts as intermediary. Once production begins, Violet attends cast readings and Dash acknowledges her as the story’s originator. His enthusiasm for her manuscript is genuine, and he treats her with professional kindness. The partnership with Andy effectively includes Violet, but Dash’s primary interaction remains with Andy.

Dash and the Hollywood world

Dash deliberately operates outside the studio system. His independence is both a professional choice and a philosophical stance. He criticizes “studio bullshit” and prefers the control and intimacy of independent production. His reputation for honesty contrasts sharply with figures like Dirk Howard, who attempt to exploit Violet’s story. Dash’s distance from the major studios makes him a safe harbor for Andy after the firing.

Key Decisions and Consequences

  1. Choosing to read the manuscript overnight: This decision demonstrates Dash’s willingness to prioritize a personal recommendation over formal submission processes. The consequence is that Tightrope moves forward rapidly, bypassing the slow development typical of studio projects.

  2. Proposing an equal coproduction with Andy: Instead of offering a conventional deal that would give him larger control, Dash suggests a fifty-fifty financial split. This decision builds trust and commits both men equally. It also allows Andy to reclaim a sense of agency after his firing.

  3. Accepting Andy as screenwriter without a sample: Dash trusts Andy’s past talent and current motivation. The risk pays off when Andy delivers a strong script that impresses even the director. The consequence is a tighter creative process and a stronger sense of ownership for Andy.

  4. Insisting Andy attend the Golden Globes: Dash recognizes that Andy’s avoidance of Los Angeles will only prolong his trauma. He pushes hard, even when Andy resists. The consequence is Andy’s successful return to his former world, which leads to a cathartic emotional breakthrough and a renewed sense of self.

  5. Committing to a second film before the first is even released: Dash’s willingness to begin another project with Andy and Violet indicates his long-term belief in the partnership. This decision cements Dash’s role as an ongoing collaborator rather than a one-time ally, and it underscores the theme of reinvention as a continuous process.

Theme and Symbol Connections

Dash embodies several of the novel’s central themes:

  • Reinvention and second chances: Dash’s entire career is a rejection of the corporate studio model. He represents the possibility of starting over outside established systems. By partnering with Andy, he helps Andy reinvent himself as an independent producer-screenwriter rather than a fallen studio head.

  • Identity and loss of self: Dash never loses his sense of identity because he never tied it to a powerful title. He functions as a foil to Andy, showing that a person can remain authentic without becoming consumed by authority.

  • Power versus fulfillment: Dash chooses creative fulfillment over institutional power. His satisfaction comes from making movies he believes in, not from commanding a studio. The novel suggests that Dash’s life is more balanced than Andy’s former life, even though Dash lacks the same external status.

  • Creative collaboration and mentorship: Dash actively mentors Andy in the indie film world, though he also learns from Andy’s experience. Their collaboration is mutual; Dash does not assume superiority. He treats Andy as an equal partner, which allows their creative relationship to flourish.

  • Overcoming past trauma: While Dash’s own trauma is not explored, he becomes instrumental in helping Andy overcome the trauma of his firing. His support and gentle pressure guide Andy toward facing his fears.

Symbolically, Dash can be seen as a kind of bridge between the old world (Hollywood) and the new (independent film). His pub, The Shed, and his London studio stand in contrast to the sterile corporate offices of Global. He represents the possibility of honest work in an often—dishonest industry.

5 Questions and Direct Answers

1. What immediately convinces Dash to read Violet’s manuscript?
Andy’s personal recommendation is enough for Dash. He says he will read it “on cocktail napkins or newspaper,” showing that his trust in Andy’s judgment outweighs any need for a polished, finished document. He recognizes Andy’s legendary instincts for good material.

2. Why does Dash propose a fifty-fifty financial split with Andy?
Dash wants to create a true partnership free of hierarchical power. By sharing costs equally, both men have equal ownership of the film. Dash also understands that Andy needs to feel invested in the project, not merely hired as a screenwriter. The equal split symbolically restores Andy’s sense of worth.

3. How does Dash react when he learns Violet was married to Gabriel Foster?
He is shocked, exclaiming “Holy shit! The guy is a monster.” This reaction shows that Dash is aware of Foster’s crimes and immediately understands the depth of Violet’s trauma. It does not deter him from the project; instead, it increases his admiration for Violet’s bravery.

4. What role does Dash play in Andy’s decision to attend the Golden Globes?
Dash pushes Andy repeatedly, arguing that Andy cannot hide forever and that the nomination is a professional honor that must be faced. He joins forces with Violet to pressure Andy, and his persistence—combined with Violet’s gentle encouragement—convinces Andy to go.

5. Does Dash ever have any doubts about the success of Tightrope?
The text does not show Dash expressing doubt. He is consistently optimistic, calling the film a likely hit and joking that it might even earn award consideration. His confidence helps keep Andy and Violet focused. However, it is also implied that Dash understands the inherent risks of independent filmmaking; he simply chooses to focus on the possibilities rather than the obstacles.

For further analysis of the novel’s themes and ending, see the themes overview and the ending explained.