Sarah Brady
Updated on: October 16, 2024 3:27 am GMT
It seems that even seasoned actors like Sarah Paulson can feel a bit shy in front of the camera. Recently, the Emmy and Tony Award-winning actress joined the cast of the critically acclaimed series “The Bear” for its standout second season episode titled “Fishes.” This episode, which revolves around a chaotic Christmas dinner with Carmy’s family, has quickly become a favorite among fans and critics alike.
Paulson took on the role of Michelle, Carmy’s cousin, joining a star-studded lineup that included Jamie Lee Curtis, Jon Bernthal, Gillian Jacobs, John Mulaney, and Bob Odenkirk. The depth and emotion brought by these actors contributed significantly to the episode’s impact.
Paulson expressed her initial fears about joining such a talented cast. Speaking with IndieWire, she revealed, “I have to say, I was really intimidated.” Despite being a fan of the show, she had reached out to the show’s creator Chris Storer on Instagram to express her admiration well before getting the chance to be part of it. “I wrote to [director/showrunner] Chris Storer via Instagram when the show first came out, pledging my allegiance to him and saying I would do anything for him,” she shared.
Joining the Cast
Receiving an invitation to join the show months later was a thrilling surprise for Paulson. “I didn’t read it. I said yes. I don’t need to read it and I don’t care whether I’m carrying a glass of water from one corner of the room to the next,” she told IndieWire. This eagerness and passion for the project were evident as she stepped into the episode, but the reality of shooting with such a stellar cast was daunting.
Paulson noted the importance of having a familiar face on set, as her co-star Ebon Moss-Bachrach from the film “Hold Your Breath” was also part of the cast. The comfort of knowing someone in the midst of unfamiliarity helped ease her nerves. “I was incredibly intimidated and felt really shy,” she admitted.
An Instant Classic
The episode “Fishes” not only showcased the characters’ complexities but also earned critical acclaim, resulting in nine Emmy nominations and winning four, including awards for Outstanding Guest Actor and Outstanding Guest Actress for Bernthal and Curtis, respectively. Paulson looked back on her experience in “Fishes” with gratitude, stating, “I certainly didn’t know that it was going to become this sort of seminal episode of the show.”
The dynamics of the dysfunctional Christmas dinner provided an authentic platform to display the talents of all involved. Paulson recognized the high level of acting surrounding her, which only added to her sense of pressure while filming.
Looking Ahead
After her remarkable appearance in “The Bear,” Paulson is set to reunite with another key figure in her career, mega-producer Ryan Murphy, on the upcoming legal drama “All’s Fair.” This new project will feature Kim Kardashian in the lead role, and Paulson is eager to jump back into work with Murphy. “There’s nothing Ryan Murphy could ask me to do that I would say no to,” she said. “When he calls, I answer.”
This collaboration continues a long-standing relationship between Paulson and Murphy, with previous successful projects under their belt.
Aside from her upcoming roles, Paulson’s recent project, “Hold Your Breath,” is set to premiere on Hulu on October 3, adding another exciting title to her filmography.
In a world where change is constant, Sarah Paulson’s journey reminds us all that even the most accomplished individuals grapple with new experiences. Her honesty about feeling intimidated serves as a powerful lesson: embracing fear and stepping boldly into new situations can lead to extraordinary moments in both life and art.
As people get ready for her upcoming shows, they are excited to see Paulson in “All’s Fair” and the new seasons of “The Bear.” Paulson tells stories that really connect with us, and with every new role, she helps make TV even better.
