Rowan Blanchard, known for her role as Riley Matthews in the Disney Channel series *Girl Meets World*, has taken on a new and exciting character in Hulu’s *The Testaments*, a sequel to the acclaimed *The Handmaid’s Tale* based on Margaret Atwood’s 2019 novel. The 24-year-old actress, who began her career at the tender age of five, expressed immense enthusiasm for her new role as Shunammite, describing it as a “dream” come true.
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*The Testaments* delves into a dystopian world, following a group of young women in a preparatory school situated within Gilead’s oppressive regime. The cast also features actors such as Chase Infiniti, Lucy Halliday, and Ann Dowd, all of whom play significant roles in this coming-of-age series. Blanchard’s participation adds a fresh perspective to the narrative, and she shared her excitement at the recent premiere held at The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles on March 31.
Reflecting on the project, Blanchard revealed her appreciation for being part of a series with a substantial and passionate fan base. “It feels like such a privilege to get to act in something that has such a beautiful and large fan base,” she stated in an exclusive interview with *PEOPLE*. The actress also recounted how the cast developed a close bond during filming, sharing light-hearted moments and memories, including their fondness for playing Scrabble together.
The success of *Girl Meets World*, which aired from 2014 to 2017, showcased Blanchard alongside a talented cast that included Sabrina Carpenter, known for her role as Maya Hart, as well as original *Boy Meets World* members Danielle Fishel and Ben Savage. Blanchard fondly remembers revisiting episodes of the original series when she began filming the pilot for *Girl Meets World*, recognising the show’s distinctive approach to storytelling aimed at children. “It was talking to them — rather than talking down to them — and making these lessons inclusive,” she highlighted in a 2016 interview.
Since *Girl Meets World* concluded, Blanchard has expanded her acting repertoire with roles in various projects such as *Snowpiercer*, *Crush*, and *Poker Face*. Her latest venture into *The Testaments* marks a significant evolution in her career, as she embraces a more mature role in a series that touches upon complex themes.
Viewers can anticipate a multifaceted experience in *The Testaments*, with Blanchard promising that the narrative is not devoid of humour. “You might be surprised by how much humour there is,” she said, assuring fans that the series maintains a balance of light moments amid its more serious themes. The actress added that the series is filled with unexpected twists and surprises that could catch audiences off guard.
With *The Testaments* now available for streaming on Hulu, Blanchard invites both her long-time fans and newcomers to join her on this diverse journey of storytelling. As she navigates this new role, she looks forward to drawing in viewers with the series’ blend of drama, humour, and heartfelt moments, promising an engaging viewing experience.
In an entertainment landscape that often sees actors transitioning between whimsical childhood roles and more adult characters, Rowan Blanchard’s journey stands out. Her passion for acting and ability to challenge her creative boundaries have only grown since her Disney days, suggesting a bright future ahead as she continues to explore diverse and thought-provoking characters on screen.