Sasha Bhasin has emerged as a notable talent in the entertainment industry this year, with significant roles showcasing her versatility and depth as an actress.
This year marked Bhasin’s debut in the popular Netflix series, XO, Kitty, a heartfelt spinoff of the beloved To All The Boys franchise. Portraying Praveena, a new love interest for the show’s protagonist, played by Anna Cathcart, has helped solidify Bhasin’s place in the spotlight.
Reflecting on her experience, Bhasin shared with The Hollywood Reporter, “Once I got to set on XO, Kitty, I felt comfortable, mirroring the way Praveena adapts to her surroundings.” The show has garnered renewed interest, recently receiving a third-season renewal.
In addition to her role in XO, Kitty, Bhasin has also joined the cast of Max’s medical drama The Pitt, where she plays Nandi, a social media influencer who finds herself as a patient in the storyline. “I’m really just basking in the moment,” she expressed, highlighting her gratitude for these opportunities.
Insights into Sasha Bhasin’s Journey
In a candid conversation, Bhasin discussed her recent projects, her experiences coping with the anxiety that often accompanies the acting profession, and her aspirations for future roles.
Embracing the New Dynamic in XO, Kitty
Joining a highly-regarded show in its second season can be daunting. Bhasin elaborated on her nerves before stepping onto the set of such a popular series, revealing, “This production was a first for me at this level, and the experience was both exhilarating and intimidating.” However, a warm reception from the cast quickly dispelled her anxieties, making her feel like part of a tight-knit community very early on.
The Experience of Filming in Seoul
Bhasin described her time in Seoul as “the coolest experience I’ve ever had.” She shared her excitement about visiting East Asia for the first time, stating, “Spending two and a half months immersed in Korean culture was a dream come true. The food, the locals, the karaoke—it was all amazing.”
Finding Comfort in Newness
As a newcomer among a seasoned cast, Bhasin found parallels between her own experience and that of her character Praveena. She stated, “Although I was joining some of the most talented actors, I quickly felt at ease. Praveena, too, is a new arrival but adjusts seamlessly to her environment.”
Exploring Queer Identity on Screen
When discussing the dynamic between Praveena and Kitty, Bhasin considered it an essential representation of queer identity. “The evolving relationship between them offers a glimpse into the complexities of young love and self-exploration,” she remarked. Bhasin values how the show portrays growth and the fluidity of identity, emphasizing the importance of representation, especially for young audiences.
A Familiarity with the Franchise
Before landing her role, Bhasin was already a fan of the To All The Boys movies and the first season of XO, Kitty. She admitted, “When the audition came, I was astonished that I could potentially be cast in one of Netflix’s biggest hits. It felt surreal.” Throughout the audition process, Bhasin’s excitement only grew, ultimately landing her one of the show’s pivotal roles.
Anticipating Audience Reactions
Bhasin hopes that viewers will resonate with the show’s message—that they are not alone in their struggles. She expressed, “When you watch XO, Kitty, you’re taken on a joyful ride that highlights life’s messiness. I want people to feel uplifted and transported to the vibrant setting of Seoul.”
Shaping Future Narratives
Bhasin expresses optimism about the impact of XO, Kitty on the portrayal of queer characters and people of color in media. She hopes for a future where diverse narratives are interwoven into mainstream stories without feeling forced. “I am thrilled to be part of this shift in storytelling,” she stated.
Navigating Career Growth
Currently poised on the brink of what might be a transformative phase in her career, Bhasin grapples with the accompanying pressures. “There’s anxiety about continuing to find work after XO, Kitty and The Pitt,” she acknowledged. Yet, this fuel drives her ambition to take on more meaningful roles that resonate with various audiences.
Future Aspirations
When contemplating her future roles, Bhasin aspires to capture the essence of complex characters. Inspired by actors like Angelina Jolie and Mia Goth, she dreams of starring in thrillers and horror films, stating, “The genre fascinates me, and I am eager for such opportunities in my career.”
Bhasin’s approach to crafting characters involves deep immersion, indicating her dedication to the art of acting. She acknowledged, “Creating characters is a fundamental part of my process, and I love to experiment with different expressions and styles.”
As she channels her inner child into her roles, Bhasin aims to inspire younger generations and highlights the importance of representation on screen. She hopes her work enables others to recognize themselves in the stories being told.