Sepideh Moafi on Her Roles in "The Pitt" and “New Born”
In our recent interview with Jenelle Riley, actress Sepideh Moafi shared reflections on her remarkable year, highlighted by her captivating performance in The Pitt and her current starring role alongside Hugh Jackman in the off-Broadway show New Born . Moafi described her experience in New Born as "sacred and beautiful," detailing how the intimate setting of the Minetta Lane Theatre has allowed her to explore a variety of deeply personal stories through three separate monologues written by Ella Hickson.
The conversation transitioned to the unique challenges of performing monologues versus working on a medical procedural like The Pitt . Moafi emphasized the significant physicality and stamina required for stage performances, where she is fully responsible for the emotional arc of the story without a scene partner. While both formats come with their own challenges, she expressed excitement for the thrill of performing solo, recognizing how the interaction with the audience can shape each rendition of the material.
Moafi addressed her initial hesitation to join The Pitt, sharing that she had passed on a previous audition for medical procedural shows due to a lack of personal interest in the genre. However, after watching the first season, she became enamored with the series, quickly binge-watching it and later seeking out the opportunity to portray Dr. Al-Hashimi. Reflecting on her journey to securing the role, she recalled the chaos surrounding her audition process, where she was recovering from illness while simultaneously preparing for a pivotal callback involving chemistry reads.
Her preparation for the role included researching her character’s background and the complexities of being a mixed-race doctor navigating a challenging healthcare landscape. Moafi articulated the importance of portraying characters that reflect the reality of many healthcare professionals who face societal biases and personal challenges, particularly in marginalized communities. This resonated deeply with her, especially as she serves as an ambassador for the International Rescue Committee, aiming to highlight the stories of those who often go unheard.
As the conversation drew to a close, Moafi praised the collaborative atmosphere of the production, emphasizing the integral role that both established and new actors play in its success. She expressed gratitude for the opportunity to bring visibility to the nuanced experience of healthcare workers, particularly those who navigate their conditions while providing care to others. With her passion for storytelling and the impactful themes present in The Pitt, Moafi is undoubtedly poised to continue captivating audiences both on stage and screen.
Watch the full conversation below.
