After reading the interview with the talented actress who played Carrillo in Lioness, I was left feeling both inspired and awe-struck. This woman has had quite an extraordinary journey so far, from flying helicopters to sharing scenes with her idol Zoe Saldana. And let me tell you, she certainly didn’t hold back when it came to taking on challenges – even if that meant going from playing a tough, physical character to a more cerebral one in Night Agent!
[This story contains spoilers from the season two finale of Lioness.]
The second installment of the CIA operative series by Taylor Sheridan, titled Lioness, concluded explosively on multiple aspects.
The final episode of the Paramount+ series featuring Zoe Saldaña, Nicole Kidman, Dave Annable, Michael Kelly, and Morgan Freeman didn’t hold back when Morgan Freeman, as the U.S. Secretary of State, granted Michael Kelly’s character, Byron Westfield (Deputy Director of the CIA), permission to lead a special ops mission with the CIA-led Quick Reaction Force team, code-named Lioness, near the Turkey/Iranian border. The intel indicated that Iran was planning to illegally bring in two Chinese scientists to aid their nuclear program. It had been discovered that the Chinese were involved in orchestrating a Mexican cartel’s kidnapping of a U.S. congresswoman and moving her across the border, ultimately executing her family. Now, it was time for retribution.
Leading the kill mission of the Chinese operatives in Iran would be new Lioness recruit Josephina Carrillo, a U.S. Army captain and helicopter pilot played by Genesis Rodriguez, who was forced into the Lioness organization because her family is part of the cartel that kidnapped the congresswoman. Known as Josie, Carrillo would face some ugly truths about the family she had purposely ignored and risk her life in an all-out miniwar with Iranian solders after her helicopter gets shot down on the Iranian side, along with fellow Lioness recruit (and her lover) Cruz (Laysla De Oliveira).
Simultaneously, in America, CIA leaders Kidman and Kelly contemplate taking down the cartel leader who abducted the congresswoman. Their plan involves promoting his brother, Pablo Carrillo (portrayed by Demian Castro, also Josie’s father), to assume control of the family business. To facilitate this, they arrange for Pablo to meet his brother in Mexico. Once the meeting occurs, they order Pablo to execute his brother at close range, which they observe. By doing so, Pablo becomes a pawn for the CIA, and is able to avoid maximum-security imprisonment.
Lately, The Hollywood Reporter had the opportunity to chat with Rodriquez, who’s been making headlines due to her impressive portrayal of Carrillo. During their conversation, the actress opened up about deepening her character, the emotional turmoil involved in filming a Sheridan war sequence, and her plans for the future – such as expressing her desire for a third season of Lioness.
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What was the hardest part for you in shooting Lioness?
Every step of it proved to be a test. Ranging from the initial audition to landing the role and finally executing everything, it felt unnatural and more like an obstacle to me. Yet, I sensed that this was the perfect opportunity because it sent shivers down my spine, and I knew it was the path I needed to take. When something terrifies you, there’s an element of growth involved. I was simply thankful for the experience since I knew personal development would come with it as well.
Was it due to Cruz standing up for her against her harsh father that Carrillo developed feelings for him? What ignited the romantic relationship between these characters?
It appears to me that Cruz found a strong sense of empathy in what Josie was experiencing, which was intensified by their direct, authentic interaction. For Josie, this was the unique individual who spoke to her as an equal, showed genuine concern, and seemed to comprehend her situation. From the outset, Josie felt secure with her because of this straightforwardness. In truth, this person served as a beacon of hope for Josie amidst the entire mission.
Was Josie utterly taken aback by her father’s extreme and oppressive political beliefs?
It’s quite possible that one tends to view people we’re close to through rose-tinted lenses. We might overlook certain flaws because of our familial bond or shared history as friends. We often choose to ignore and avoid seeing these aspects in such individuals. However, when we eventually meet them again, we can’t help but see them for who they truly are. By this point, you’ve grown into your own person, and it’s impossible not to notice their true character. This realization was quite a shock for her. I believe she may have had suspicions about her father, but it wasn’t until this mission that she fully understood the truth.
Can your father be trusted as the new leader of the cartel?
As a gamer, I ponder if they wouldn’t have picked him unless they could manage him, or rely on managing him. Yet, how much can one truly control? It’s a delicate balance, indeed. That’s the scene with Byron [played by Michael Kelly], when they were in the plane and he vomited – after the CIA forced Josie’s father to assassinate his own brother and take over the cartel. He said something like, “What makes me sick is how little will change. It’s just a different face.” I believe that encapsulates the crux of the matter. Nothing seems to change, just the players in the game.
How has my perspective on life shifted, having gone through the Corrillo/Lioness program and reconnecting with my loved ones, especially my father, in a deeper way?
Her whole entire world is shattered. Her job was taken away from her, the thing she dedicated her life to since she was 18. She fought her way into the army, she worked her way up, and that was stripped away from her. Then she is forced to confront something she’s been avoiding since childhood, which is what her family is doing. So, her family is taken away from her. Now she’s in the grey, and she has to make do with this team and figure her life out. It was really just awful, her circle. But I do feel like she found her way by the end: “I still get to do what I know how to do within this new team.”
“Can you tell me what you were thinking while shooting the intense and terrifying war scene in the final episode, where Carrillo let out that heart-wrenching cry and scream? Was that cry improvised?
Originally enacted, the scene where “Josie screams” felt predictable, but as events unfolded and I experienced the real-life reactions and saw the extras, I found myself instinctively reacting in that moment. I never anticipated being part of a war film during my career, yet this episode transpired. I am incredibly proud of this episode; it was nothing short of perfection, with Taylor’s performance truly shining.
Who was the most fun cast member to work with in this star-studded group?
As a devoted gamer, let me say this show’s cast was truly committed to their roles. We poured our hearts into every scene, and the dedication showed. However, I must give a special shout-out to Zoe [Saldaña]. For years, she’s been an inspiration to me, someone I’ve admired deeply. Sharing screen time with her, moments, and scenes has been nothing short of a priceless experience. She’s simply extraordinary, both on and off the screen. I’m completely captivated by her talent – she could do no wrong in my eyes. Truly unique, Zoe is an exceptional artist. To have witnessed this, I feel incredibly fortunate and grateful for this opportunity. This job has been a real blessing.
What really kicked your ass while filming Lioness?
This entire series tested my limits in an exceptional manner, pushing me beyond what I thought I could achieve. It surprised me with abilities I didn’t know I possessed – from building muscle to flying a helicopter, acting alongside Zoe, and performing feats I hadn’t realized were within my reach. I am incredibly thankful for these challenges; they forced me out of my comfort zone and fostered personal growth.
Are you hyped up for the next season?
Truly, I’m keeping everything crossed that we’ll have another season ahead! It’s something we’re genuinely excited about and eagerly looking forward to.
What’s next for you? I hear you will be in season three of Netflix’s Night Agent.
Currently, I’m embodying an entirely distinct role in the series “Night Agent”. At present, we’re filming in Istanbul, and it’s a blast! There’s plenty of excitement, as well as unexpected twists and turns. I’m thrilled because the switch is quite abrupt. I transitioned from a demanding physical character in “Lioness” to a more mentally-focused one in “Night Agent”. It’s enjoyable for me, and I relish any opportunity to tackle new challenges.
I’m simply filled with gratitude right now. The exhilaration from watching Lioness hasn’t worn off yet, and I’m deeply appreciative of everyone who tuned in and showed their support for the series. At this moment, I can’t help but eagerly hope for a third season of Lioness!
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Lioness seasons one and two are now streaming on Paramount+.
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2024-12-20 06:25