 This lesbian storyline was dovetailed with an equally controversial plot involving Whelan's character in a doomed romance with her high school drama teacher "Mr. Dmitri", played by Eric Stoltz.Whelan, Deane, and Wood were recognized for their performances in April 2001, winning that year's Young Artist Award for Best Ensemble in a TV Series (Drama or Comedy); Whelan had been nominated on her own in March 2000 for Best Performance in a TV Drama Series - Supporting Young Actress.After "Once and Again" wrapped up its three-year run in 2002, Whelan moved on to other projects.