Natasha Rothwell has made a significant impact on television, bringing a relatable and authentic presence to her roles in series like “The White Lotus,” “Insecure,” and her latest project, “How to Die Alone.” At the heart of all her characters lies a common yearning: the desire to be seen and understood.
Rothwell opened up about her journey as a plus-size Black woman in the entertainment industry, sharing, “Because I just wanna be seen. I grew up in this body, and I didn’t see myself represented in a lot of film and television. What’s interesting is that as much as I want to be seen, it’s a very scary thing to be seen.” Despite the fears associated with visibility, it seems that it’s too late for Rothwell to shy away now, as audiences have wholeheartedly embraced her talent and authenticity.
Rothwell first gained widespread recognition for her role as the scene-stealing best friend, Kelly, in HBO’s “Insecure.” However, it was her portrayal of spa manager Belinda in the critically acclaimed dark comedy series “The White Lotus” that truly catapulted her career to new heights. This role showcased her ability to capture complex emotions and nuanced characters, resonating deeply with viewers.
Harnessing her newfound clout in Hollywood, Rothwell has embarked on her latest venture: Hulu’s “How to Die Alone.” In this project, she not only stars but also serves as the creator, playing the role of Melissa, an airport employee grappling with a series of setbacks. After narrowly escaping a tragic incident, Melissa resolves to turn her life around. The journey to bring this comedy to life took seven years, reflecting Rothwell’s commitment to the character and the narrative.
Rothwell describes Melissa as “the version of me that I didn’t really give grace to,” emphasizing the character’s struggles to meet her own expectations. “A person who, in spite of all of her best efforts, still felt like she was not enough,” she explains. Through writing and embodying Melissa, Rothwell finds an opportunity for self-compassion and hopes to inspire others to extend the same kindness to themselves.
Creating such a deeply personal character has been a transformative experience for Rothwell. She shares, “It’s reminiscent almost because every aspect of her that is questionable or impulsive is very familiar to me.” This connection to her character has allowed Rothwell to reflect on a challenging time in her life, channeling those emotions into a narrative that resonates with others. “To express that time in my life when I was confused and lost in a way that inspires hope has been really beautiful and healing,” she says.
The response to Rothwell’s new series has been overwhelmingly positive. Recently, she attended a rally for Vice President Kamala Harris in Atlanta, where she was touched by the warm reception from fans. “It was the first time that I was approached by so many people about ‘How to Die Alone,’” Rothwell recalls. Although she’s often recognized for her previous roles, this time, fans were excitedly discussing her new project. “They were saying Natasha. And when I got in the car afterwards, I was just sobbing because I think it’s been a long time coming,” she admitted, reflecting on the significance of this recognition.
Rothwell is keenly aware of the excitement surrounding the next season of “The White Lotus,” where she is one of the few cast members returning from the original season. Filming the third season in Thailand for five months was a thrilling experience for her. “None of us knew what ‘White Lotus’ was going to become, especially me,” she explains. The prospect of delving deeper into her character this season excites Rothwell, as she feels there is much more to explore.
Despite the anticipation surrounding the new season, Rothwell humorously notes the tight-lipped nature of the cast regarding spoilers: “I signed away my life,” she jokes, underscoring the confidentiality surrounding the project. Nevertheless, the enthusiasm for her character’s return reflects the strong connection audiences have developed with her work.
As she continues to navigate her career, Rothwell is dedicated to honoring her fans, both old and new. She recognizes the importance of delivering authentic performances and creating characters that resonate on a personal level. “I don’t want to let either my longtime or newfound fans down,” she says, highlighting her commitment to her craft.
“How to Die Alone” is currently streaming on Hulu, while fans can also catch Rothwell in “Insecure” and the first two seasons of “The White Lotus” on Max, which is owned by CNN’s parent company. As Rothwell continues to shine in her career, her journey serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of representation and the profound impact of storytelling in today’s media landscape. Through her roles, she invites audiences to see not only her characters but also themselves, fostering a deeper connection through shared experiences and emotions.
