Rachel Brosnahan, renowned for her dynamic portrayal of Midge Maisel in The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, is not just a fixture in dramatic and comedic roles but is now making a mark in the action genre. Her recent role as Lois Lane in Superman has sparked conversations about her potential to lead her own action franchise. Brosnahan’s affinity for intense, competition-based reality shows, which burgeoned during the pandemic lockdown, might be preparing her for just that.
During a period when many sought new forms of entertainment, Brosnahan developed a particular obsession with reality shows that test the limits of human endurance and survival. This fascination isn’t just a way to pass time; it could be a cornerstone in her training for more physically demanding roles. Her favorite, the iconic Survivor, exemplifies the resilience, strategic acumen, and physical stamina that could translate well into the world of action cinema.
The Survivor Effect: Building an Action Star
While Brosnahan is best known for her quick-witted, rapid-dialogue delivery in comedy, Survivor might be prepping her for action-packed scenes. The show’s grueling challenges mimic the physicality required in action roles—whether it’s maintaining balance during strenuous conditions or strategizing under pressure. Brosnahan herself joked about her competitive spirit and readiness for such challenges, stating in an interview with The Guardian, “I’ve picked up a thing or two. That is, if I had time to prepare. If not, I’d definitely get eaten.”
Her ability to engage with these reality show challenges suggests she could handle the intricate choreography and split-second timing needed for blockbuster action sequences. Imagine Brosnahan navigating a treacherous jungle or dodging explosions—all skills that her viewing habits might be subconsciously training her for.
From Watching to Performing: The Alone Influence
After mastering the couch-based challenges of Survivor, Brosnahan took her reality TV consumption to another level with Alone. This show, which isolates participants in the wilderness with minimal resources, represents an extreme form of the survival themes she admires. It’s one thing to survive with a tribe or team, but Alone tests individual mettle to its limits, a theme that resonates deeply with the roles of lone heroes in many action films.
This shift to embracing more extreme survival scenarios could be shaping Brosnahan for roles that require not just physical prowess but deep emotional resilience. Playing a character who survives against all odds, in isolation, could be a perfect match for her developing skill set, providing a fresh narrative angle for her evolving career in action cinema.
A New Frontier for Brosnahan
With her proven talent in drama and comedy, her burgeoning interest in action roles, and a Critics Choice Award buzz amplifying her current Hollywood momentum, Rachel Brosnahan is poised for new heights. Her role in Superman may just be the beginning of an action-oriented chapter in her career. As Hollywood continues to evolve, the lines between genres blur, offering performers like Brosnahan a chance to redefine their paths—one reality show, and one role, at a time.
In embracing the unexpected and challenging herself with the rigors of reality TV survival challenges, Rachel Brosnahan isn’t just watching television; she’s preparing for her next big leap. The question isn’t whether she can lead an action franchise, but rather, when will we see her take on this new challenge? Her journey from stand-up comedy to potential action star is a testament to her versatile talent and the unexpected ways performers find to hone their craft.