While filming a Lifetime movie, Garcelle Beauvais discovered the limits of romantic scenes.

Beauvais stars in and produces “Terry McMillan Presents: Tempted by Love,” which premieres on Saturday at 8 PM EDT/PDT and streams on Sunday. In the movie, the “Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” star portrays Ava, a chef who returns to South Carolina from Europe to help her sick aunt (played by Donna Biscoe). Upon her return, she develops feelings for Luke (Vaughn W. Hebron), her airport driver who is 20 years her junior.

“At one moment, my character was unbuckling Luke’s pants, and I thought, ‘Is this acceptable for Lifetime?’” Beauvais, 57, recalls with humor. “It felt a bit too bold. That scene didn’t make it into the final cut, but we definitely explored adult themes, and it was quite passionate.”

“As someone in their 50s, I find it inspiring to see stories about finding love at any stage in life,” Beauvais says about the film’s theme. “The character faces real challenges: she’s a chef with arthritis, navigating menopause. We tackled topics many shy away from, and that makes the story relatable and heartfelt.”

There’s a noticeable shift in television, with more representation of older women, thanks in part to the popularity of programs like Bravo’s “Real Housewives” and ABC’s “The Golden Bachelor.”

<p“Women these days look better than ever,” Beauvais asserts. “We’re living longer and taking pride in our health. Why should there be a stigma? It’s all about the spirit, not just the age.”

Beauvais describes herself as being “invested” in shows like “Golden Bachelor,” but she prefers to steer clear of reality TV while working on “Real Housewives.” She has just finished filming Season 14 and notes that she has developed closer ties with some cast members like Sutton Stracke and Kyle Richards.

The actress has also recently interviewed Vice President Kamala Harris in Washington, a few months prior to Harris announcing her candidacy for the Democratic presidential nomination. This interview was shared online on August 10. While admitting she felt nervous due to the Secret Service presence, Beauvais found the conversation enjoyable.

“I’m a Democrat, and I felt anxious with everything being said about President Biden,” Beauvais confesses. “I’m genuinely pleased that she’s getting the chance she deserves. This is America—how have we not had a female president? This is our first female VP? We’re really lagging behind.”