Simone Kessell on the Pressure of Playing a Coveted Character in ‘Yellowjackets’

The highly anticipated second season of the hit TV series Yellowjackets left fans on the edge of their seats. The show, which follows the story of a group of teenage girls who survive a plane crash and are forced to survive in the wilderness, has gained a cult following. 

New Zealand actress Simone Kessell joins Season 2 by playing the role of adult Lottie Matthews. She opened up about the pressure and challenges that came with taking on this role.

Speaking with The Latch, she revealed that the pressure to live up to the expectations of the show’s dedicated fanbase was significant.

“There was a lot of pressure going in because I really had to do my homework. And I felt like I was at the bottom of Mount Everest. And going, ‘Oh, my God, I have to climb this beast’. It was a lot,” she admitted.

However, Kessell was able to draw on her extensive acting experience to bring her character to life. 

 

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“For those reasons, I knew I could play her, but I just had to work out how to play her. And that was what was most daunting, I think.”

The second season of Yellowjackets was highly anticipated by fans of the show. And Kessell’s portrayal of Lottie Matthews was a significant part of that excitement. 

In addition to discussing the pressure and challenges of her character, the 47-year-old also spoke about her reaction to getting the role.

“When I got the phone call, I was equally as excited as I was terrified,” Kessell recalled. 

“I was like, ‘oh my god, how am I gonna play this?’ I didn’t know really what I was playing because they [producers] were very cagey with the information on the character. Because she’s such a coveted character in regards to how season one finishes with who the f**k is Lottie Matthews?”

Despite the initial shock and uncertainty, Kessell was ultimately grateful for the opportunity to take on such a complex character. She was determined to do justice to the role and spent a significant amount of time doing research and preparing for the role.

“Yellowjackets” Season 2 is streaming now on Paramount Plus.

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