Maisie Richardson-Sellers Provides Wise Relationship Guidance to Her Character in Nine Perfect Strangers.

Maisie Richardson-Sellers Provides Wise Relationship Guidance to Her Character in Nine Perfect Strangers.

      Since the debut of MTV's groundbreaking reality show The Real World, viewers have been intrigued by the experiment of placing complete strangers in a shared space. Who doesn’t enjoy witnessing "what happens when people stop being polite and start getting real"? This well-established concept has seamlessly transitioned into some of today's most prominent television dramas, including the seemingly perfect retreats of The White Lotus, the notorious Hollywood conflicts seen in Ryan Murphy’s Feud, and the luxurious wellness experiences of Hulu's Nine Perfect Strangers. Each installment of these anthology series, set in diverse locations with a fresh cast of intriguing characters (aside from a few returning roles), provides an incredibly engaging microcosm of society that is completely entertaining—if not a bit stressful—to view. Thankfully, the acclaimed show Nine Perfect Strangers has returned after a phenomenal first season. This season trades the sunny California backdrop and idyllic Tranquillum House for the chilly Austrian Alps and the expansive mountaintop resort Zauberwald, introducing nine new affluent guests seeking a comprehensive mind-and-body healing journey. At the forefront once again is the unflinching leader and wellness guru, Masha Dmitrichenko (brilliantly portrayed by Nicole Kidman)—now sporting a sharp bob and grappling with her own financial and emotional challenges—as she guides her clients through distinctive microdosing therapies.

      Like its inaugural season, the second season of Nine Perfect Strangers boasts an ensemble of talent shining from every angle: Mark Strong as the irate billionaire David; Christine Baranski as the exceptionally glamorous absentee mother Victoria; Murray Bartlett as the disgraced children's TV host Brian; Annie Murphy portraying the intelligent yet troubled Imogen; Henry Golding as the privileged Peter attempting to reconnect with his father; King Princess as the creatively blocked piano virtuoso Tina; and Maisie Richardson-Sellers as Wolfie, Tina's overbearing girlfriend. The narrative arc of Wolfie and Tina—a couple teetering on the edge of despair, with one seeking to escape the burdens of being a music prodigy while the other desperately wishes her partner to rediscover herself—stands out particularly. In her acting debut, King Princess along with Richardson-Sellers delivers emotionally charged performances in this relationship under immense pressure.

      After last night's critical episode for Tina and Wolfie (episode four), we spoke with actor, producer, and director Richardson-Sellers about grappling with Wolfie's vulnerability, the "magic" of collaborating with King Princess, and the master class that is observing Kidman in action.

      What was your entry point to Nine Perfect Strangers? Liane Moriarty's book? Season one? I had watched Big Little Lies and loved it. After some research, I discovered that it was based on a book. When Nine Perfect Strangers premiered, I thought, "Same writer." I watched it and appreciated her books and their adaptations because of their focus on human behavior. They explore diversity and the gray areas of life, emphasizing what remains unsaid as much as what is articulated, building tension throughout. This season particularly excels by featuring nine entirely different individuals—a quirky mix of people isolated in an unfamiliar environment where they must navigate their circumstances.

      Regarding the new characters, what aspects of Wolfie drew your interest? She’s a character unlike any I’ve portrayed before, which is incredibly exhilarating as an actor. I usually play strong, empowered roles, but at this moment, she is somewhat lost. She struggles with her identity outside of the relationship, feeling insecure and fragile, dedicating her entire existence to saving Tina and revitalizing her career, which in turn sustains their relationship. I found it fascinating that her intentions are good; she simply lost her sense of direction. The journey throughout the season involves her rediscovering that direction and confronting the consequences. Will their relationship endure this? Up until nearly the final draft, we were unsure if they would make it together, making the filming experience feel authentic as we questioned whether the relationship would succeed.

      In what ways did you personally connect with Wolfie? Conversely, how did she challenge you? At times, I found it difficult not to feel frustrated with her because I wanted to shake her and be that best friend saying, "Get yourself together! Can’t you see this is unhealthy for you?" Yet living in her mindset and feeling those emotions was challenging. It even began to seep into my personal life, leaving me feeling unsettled and uneasy. I would catch myself thinking, "No, that’s Wolfie. That’s not you." That was a unique experience.

      On the positive side, although misguided, her ability to fully devote herself to love and art is commendable, provided it’s not misused by either party. She is so captivated by Tina's talent that she does everything possible to preserve it and share it widely. I don’t necessarily advocate putting oneself last for the sake of art, but it is an interesting and admirable trait to possess.

      In episode four, we learn more about Wolfie and Tina’s history,

Maisie Richardson-Sellers Provides Wise Relationship Guidance to Her Character in Nine Perfect Strangers. Maisie Richardson-Sellers Provides Wise Relationship Guidance to Her Character in Nine Perfect Strangers. Maisie Richardson-Sellers Provides Wise Relationship Guidance to Her Character in Nine Perfect Strangers.

Other articles

Dakota Johnson Recently Wore the Flat-Shoe Substitute for Sandals That Elevates Skirts and Trousers for a More Refined Look. Dakota Johnson Recently Wore the Flat-Shoe Substitute for Sandals That Elevates Skirts and Trousers for a More Refined Look. She has motivated me. Critics, Keep Scrolling—This Controversial Sandal Color Is Making a Comeback. Critics, Keep Scrolling—This Controversial Sandal Color Is Making a Comeback. We're all in for it. 8 Trends That Have Become Cool Again (and 8 That Were Once Cool But Are Now Outdated) 8 Trends That Have Become Cool Again (and 8 That Were Once Cool But Are Now Outdated) How about we give things a new twist? You’ll Be Surprised—Here Are 8 Dress Trends Our Editors Are Steering Clear of This Summer You’ll Be Surprised—Here Are 8 Dress Trends Our Editors Are Steering Clear of This Summer Unfiltered honesty. Apologies, Cheeky Bikinis—Fashion enthusiasts are opting for this equally stylish option instead. Apologies, Cheeky Bikinis—Fashion enthusiasts are opting for this equally stylish option instead. Seen on style icons from Paris to Lisbon. I’m 26 and trading my denim cut-offs for these stylish shorts instead. I’m 26 and trading my denim cut-offs for these stylish shorts instead. I have always thought that white denim Bermuda shorts are a game-changing piece in any wardrobe. With Hailey Bieber and various fashion influencers supporting this trend, these shorts have never appeared so stylish.

Maisie Richardson-Sellers Provides Wise Relationship Guidance to Her Character in Nine Perfect Strangers.

We spoke with actress Maisie Richardson-Sellers about entering the eerie realm of Nine Perfect Strangers, collaborating with King Princess, and her upcoming drama.