Natasha Rothwell Aims to Meet Your Expectations

Natasha Rothwell's roles in "The White Lotus," "Insecure," and "How to Die Alone" share a common thread: the yearning for recognition. "It's because I simply want to be visible," Rothwell confided to CNN in a recent dialogue. Growing up as a plus-size Black woman, she didn't see her reflection in much of the film and television landscape. The paradox lies in the desire to be acknowledged, yet the apprehension that accompanies being truly seen.

It might be too late for anonymity now, as audiences have embraced Rothwell's remarkable flair. Her portrayal of the unforgettable Kelly in "Insecure" catapulted her to fame, but it was her role as spa manager Belinda in the acclaimed dark comedy "The White Lotus" that truly accelerated her career trajectory.

Capitalizing on her rising prominence in Hollywood, Rothwell embarked on a new venture with Hulu's "How to Die Alone," a project she both created and stars in. She embodies Melissa, an airport worker who decides to overhaul her life after narrowly escaping a catastrophe. It took seven years to bring this comedic endeavor to life. Rothwell reveals that the character symbolizes "a version of myself that I hadn't shown compassion towards."

"In spite of her earnest efforts, she often felt inadequate," Rothwell explained. "Crafting and portraying her grants me the opportunity to extend grace to myself and hopefully inspire others to do the same."

For Rothwell, sculpting such a personal character has been profoundly significant. "It's almost nostalgic," she reflected, "because every questionable or impulsive facet of her is intimately known to me. To articulate that period of my life, when I was bewildered and adrift, in a manner that engenders hope has been wonderfully cathartic."

The character and show are already striking a chord with viewers. Rothwell's recent appearance at a rally for Vice President Kamala Harris in Atlanta left her exhilarated by the reception from fans recognizing her work. "It was my first encounter with so many people discussing 'How to Die Alone.' I frequently hear about 'Insecure' and 'White Lotus,'" she remarked. "Yet, people were engaging about the new show, and it was profoundly emotional. Walking the track around the arena, fans in the stands were calling my name, Natasha, not Kelly. I was in tears afterward, overwhelmed by the long-awaited acknowledgment."

Her dedication to her craft stems from a desire not to disappoint both her established and newfound admirers. Rothwell is acutely aware of the anticipation surrounding the next installment of "The White Lotus." As one of the original cast members returning for the third season, she cherished the five-month filming experience in Thailand. Despite attempts by others to extract details about the new season, Rothwell and her colleagues remain tight-lipped. "I've sworn secrecy," she quipped about the confidentiality. "None of us anticipated what 'White Lotus' would evolve into, least of all me. Returning to delve deeper into my character's journey is thrilling because there's so much left unexplored."

"How to Die Alone" is available on Hulu. "Insecure" and the initial two seasons of "The White Lotus" can be streamed on Max, owned by CNN's parent company.