Double Emmy Nominee Sydney Sweeney Talks About Feeling “Empathy” For Her ‘Euphoria’ Character & Her “Terrifying” ‘White Lotus’ Teen Role

deadline.com:

As a rule, Sydney Sweeney is drawn to characters that are nothing like her. “I find that challenge interesting,” she says. But playing Cassie Howard, the LA teen who wears her emotions on her sleeve in Sam Levinson’s Euphoria was a welcome exception for the 24-year-old. “Cassie is one of the most relatable characters to me, because I search for love and acceptance, and I’m scared of being alone.” Deadline talked to Sweeney about embodying the intensity of her character, showing real depth to Cassie and what makes her character Olivia on Mike White’s black comedy The White Lotus so terrifying.DEADLINE: Going into Season 2 of Euphoria, how was it different for you?SYDNEY SWEENEY: It’s the first time that I’m able to revisit a character.

I was really excited because it was the longest time I’ve ever spent with another character — another person. So being able to go back into her shoes and learn more about her and grow was truly an experience that I’ve always dreamt of.DEADLINE: How did Sam prepare you for the intense arc that was coming?SWEENEY: He gave me a heads up of Cassie and Nate’s love affair in between Season 1 and Season 2.

But other than that, I was just along for the crazy rollercoaster ride.DEADLINE: This girl is so alive. What is Cassie like to live in?SWEENEY: I truly feel everything Cassie feels.

I like to look at it as if I am living and breathing that character’s life, and the moments that are happening are truly affecting her.