Shailene Woodley reacts to Emmy nomination for 'Paradise', calls it her "least amount of drama" set
Washington, July 9
Shailene Woodley has earned a Primetime Emmy nomination for Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series for her performance as Annie Clay in 'Paradise' season 2, and the actor has reflected on the role, the supportive atmosphere on set, and her upcoming Hulu series 'Count My Lies'.
Woodley received the nomination after appearing in just four episodes of Hulu's post-apocalyptic drama, where she portrayed Annie Clay, a resilient survivor whose emotional journey became one of the season's standout storylines.
Speaking about joining the series, Woodley said she accepted the role without hesitation because of her admiration for the creative team. "I'm just such a fan of Sterling [K. Brown] and Dan Fogelman. I just think everything he creates is gold," she saidng, "I loved the first season, and so when Dan contacted me about being a part of the second season, I was so excited," as per Deadline.
Although Annie was only featured in a limited number of episodes, Woodley said the experience exceeded her expectations.
"I honestly was just so, so excited to have the opportunity to work with all of them, and I loved every moment of it," she said, as per Deadline.
The actor also described 'Paradise' as one of the most positive productions she has worked on.
"I think Paradise is the set that I have been on throughout my entire career that has had the least amount of drama," she said, adding, "There was just no drama. Everyone genuinely loved one another. Everyone got along from the actors to catering to the transportation department."
Woodley credited co-star Sterling K Brown for contributing to the atmosphere, adding that while his on-screen character Xavier Collins appears reserved, "in real life Sterling is just so silly, goofy and playful."
Reflecting on Annie's popularity, Woodley believes audiences connected with the character's guarded personality and determination.
"I think people are really moved by the fact that this woman doesn't trust easy," she said.
She also suggested that the show's themes resonated with viewers still processing the isolation and socioeconomic challenges experienced in recent years following the Covid-19 era.
Despite Annie's storyline concluding in Season 2, Woodley has not ruled out a return if the opportunity arises.
"Oh, my God," she said with a laugh, adding, "All I've been doing is bugging Dan about Annie's future in a flashback. I guess a girl can dream."
Looking ahead, Woodley will next star in Hulu's 'Count My Lies', based on Sophie Stava's novel, alongside Lindsay Lohan.
"I love playing Sloane," she said, describing the character as "unlike any character I have ever seen on television."
She added that she "completely fell in love" with the role, calling Sloane "weird" and "unabashed in who she is."
Woodley also praised working with Lohan, saying their shared experiences in the entertainment industry helped shape their performances.
"It was a great experience to connect with her in that way and to build these women that we were able to sink our teeth into," as per Deadline.
The 78th Primetime Emmy Awards, hosted by Mariska Hargitay, will take place at the Peacock Theater on September 14, 2026.
— ANI
Reader Comments
I've been watching 'Paradise' and honestly, Shailene's performance as Annie Clay was amazing even in just 4 episodes. The way she portrayed a guarded survivor really hit home for us Indians who have seen tough times during COVID. We can relate to that distrust and resilience. Hope she wins the Emmy! 🙏
Good for her, but I wish Indian actors got this kind of recognition on global platforms. Our actors work just as hard, if not harder, with much tighter budgets and schedules. Still, happy for Shailene - she's always been a class act. Let's see if she beats the competition at the Emmys!
I love how she keeps bugging Dan Fogelman for a flashback scene! 😂 That's the kind of dedication we appreciate here in India too - when actors genuinely care about their characters' stories. And working with Lindsay Lohan? That's going to be interesting. Two talented women from different eras of Hollywood coming together!
Its refreshing to hear that even in Hollywood, a set can be drama-free. In the US, we hear so much about toxic work environments in the film industry. Shailene sounds like she found a good team. Im curious about 'Count My Lies' - the novel was fantastic and I hope the adaptation does justice.
As an Indian viewer, I appreciate that Shailene acknowledged how the show's themes connect with post-COVID struggles. We went through some really tough times here too, and stories about resilience and guarded trust feel very real. Also, Sterling K. Brown being goofy in real life
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.