Californication’s Natascha McElhone dazzles on the red carpet at the London Film Festival

This season on Californication we’ve seen David Duchovny’s Hank take a wild romp through the college campus where he’s teaching, bedding TAs, students and department chairs with abandon.

That’s par for the course, but it was with relief that we saw the return of his soulmate and baby mama Karen in later episodes.The chemistry between Duchovny and Natascha McElhone can’t be replicated with any of Hank’s many flings.

McElhone has kept a fairly low profile since the sudden death of her husband last year. The actress recently was spotted on the red carpet at the London Film Festival, taking in the premiere of the George Clooney flick Up in the Air. She chose a black-and-yellow embroidered gown, with minimal accessories. More photos are after the jump.

As Californication builds toward the end of the season, McElhone shared a few insights into Karen and Hank’s relationship.

“The only way he’s going to get Karen back is if he cleans the slate and makes himself available,” she said in an interview with TV Guide. “At the moment, his life is so complicated. He’s got to downsize a bit and actually give it a go again with her.”

So, was the whole long-distance relationship premise this season a way of Karen testing Hank? “I think sometimes she sort of gives him a little bit of space to do his thing, and he realizes he’s not actually missing out on that much after all,” McElhone said. “I suppose that’s quite wise, even though she might catch some terrible contagious disease in the meantime.”

Before the star-crossed lovers get together for good, Hank’s gonna have to make his peace with the women he’s enjoyed this season, which culminates in a confrontation with all of them. After that, will Becca’s parents finally overcome their issues and live happily ever after?

“When you see the end of the season, that question will be answered,” McElhone said.

Don’t miss the all the drama! Californication airs tonight  at 10 p.m. Eastern.

Images: Fame Pictures