Natasha Rothwell Embraces Visibility and Vulnerability in New Projects

Natasha Rothwell, known for her compelling roles in “The White Lotus,” “Insecure,” and her latest endeavor, “How to Die Alone,” is on a mission to be seen—both on-screen and in life. In a recent interview with CNN, Rothwell candidly discussed her journey as a plus-size Black woman navigating Hollywood, expressing her deep desire for representation while also acknowledging the fear that comes with being visible.

“I just wanna be seen,” she shared. Growing up without adequate representation in film and television made her journey toward self-acceptance all the more challenging. “It’s very scary to be seen,” she admitted, reflecting on the complexities of her identity and the pressure that accompanies public recognition.

Rothwell’s breakout role as Kelly in “Insecure” captured the hearts of viewers, but it was her portrayal of spa manager Belinda in “The White Lotus” that truly catapulted her career. Her talent and charisma quickly earned her a significant place in Hollywood, allowing her to pursue new creative ventures.

One of her most personal projects to date is Hulu’s “How to Die Alone,” a series she created and stars in. Rothwell plays Melissa, an airport employee who struggles with the ups and downs of life until a near-tragic incident propels her to make profound changes. The journey to bring this project to life took seven years, a testament to her commitment and vision.

“This character represents the version of me that I didn’t really give grace to,” Rothwell explained. Melissa embodies the feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt that Rothwell has experienced. “In writing her and portraying her, I find an opportunity to have grace with myself and hopefully inspire others to do the same,” she added.

The deeply personal nature of the character has made the process of creating “How to Die Alone” both meaningful and therapeutic for Rothwell. “Every aspect of her—questionable decisions, impulsiveness—reflects things that are familiar to me,” she said. The series allows her to share a part of her life that was marked by confusion and uncertainty, ultimately aiming to inspire hope in others.

Audiences are already connecting with the show. Recently, while attending a rally for Vice President Kamala Harris in Atlanta, Rothwell was overwhelmed by the positive reception she received from fans discussing “How to Die Alone.” “It was emotional to hear people shouting my name, Natasha, instead of my character names,” she recalled. “I just sobbed in the car afterward because it felt like a long time coming.”

Rothwell is acutely aware of the expectations placed on her by both longtime fans and those who have recently discovered her work. This understanding fuels her determination to deliver authentic performances. She is also aware that anticipation is building for the next season of “The White Lotus.”

As one of the few original cast members returning for the third season, Rothwell relished the opportunity to film on location in Thailand for five months. Despite the excitement, she humorously remarked about the secrecy surrounding the show: “I signed away my life,” she joked, acknowledging the pressure to keep details under wraps. “None of us knew what ‘The White Lotus’ would become, especially me. So, coming back to explore my character further is thrilling.”

With “How to Die Alone” streaming on Hulu, and “Insecure” and the first two seasons of “The White Lotus” available on Max (owned by CNN’s parent company), Rothwell’s impact on television is undeniable. She has not only carved out a space for herself but also for many who see parts of their own stories in her work.

In an industry that has historically struggled with representation, Natasha Rothwell stands out as a powerful voice. By embracing her own vulnerabilities and using her platform to share relatable stories, she continues to inspire others to find their own grace. As she moves forward, Rothwell remains committed to her craft, ensuring that her audience feels seen and valued in the process.