Shailene Woodley Says She’s an ‘Emotional Rollercoaster’ Compared to Her “Paradise” Character (Exclusive)

**Shailene Woodley Reflects on Her Role in ‘Paradise’ and the Emotional Journey of Annie Clay**

Shailene Woodley, known for her diverse performances across film and television, has shared her insights on her character in the hit Hulu series ‘Paradise.’ In a recent interview with PEOPLE at Disney’s Toast to Television event in Los Angeles, the actress delved into the contrasts between her own personality and that of Annie Clay, the character she portrays in the show’s second season, which has captivated audiences with its gripping narrative and emotional depth.

Joining ‘Paradise’ during its second season marked a significant step for Woodley. “Annie and I are actually very different, which was fun to play,” she explained, highlighting how the role diverges from her own characteristics. While both she and Annie share a resilient spirit, their approaches to this resilience starkly differ. “I’m an emotional roller coaster sometimes, and Annie is quite linear in her approach — very practical,” Woodley clarified, indicating that the role provided her with an opportunity to explore a different emotional landscape.

The character of Annie is central to the unfolding drama of Season Two, serving as an emotional anchor throughout the series. As the season progresses, Annie’s guarded nature gradually unveils layers of vulnerability, culminating in a shocking and tragic twist. In a heart-wrenching turn of events, her character succumbs to complications following childbirth, including preeclampsia and severe postpartum bleeding.

Reflecting on her decision to join the show, Woodley revealed that she didn’t delve deeply into the script before signing on. “I only read one episode,” she mentioned, adding that her discussions with show creator Dan Fogelman were crucial in understanding Annie’s trajectory. “I knew how it was going to end, but I didn’t know all of the beats in between,” she noted, indicating that she was keen to experience the storyline unfold organically during production.

Embarking on a project with an established cast and crew can be daunting; however, Woodley found the environment at ‘Paradise’ to be welcoming. “The crew had previously worked on ‘This Is Us’ and the first season of ‘Paradise’. They all knew each other very well and were incredibly inviting,” she said, emphasising the inclusive atmosphere that distinguished the production team.

Woodley’s connection to authentic storytelling remains a pivotal factor in her choice of roles. She shared, “I am drawn in by things that feel honest and authentic, even if it’s within a heightened reality or the limits of an absurd character.” This philosophy underscores her commitment to her craft and her drive to deliver performances that resonate with audiences on a deeper level.

As fans eagerly await the next chapter in the ‘Paradise’ saga, Woodley expressed her own anticipation for the forthcoming third season. “This may sound a bit crazy, but I’m really excited to see what happens in Paradise season three because I have no idea, and I don’t want to know. I’m on the edge of my seat just like a fan of the show,” she admitted. This sense of curiosity underlines her engagement with the narrative, enhancing the experience both for herself and viewers.

On March 17, the announcement came that ‘Paradise’ would indeed be returning for a third season, much to the delight of its dedicated fan base. Currently, both Season One and Season Two are available for streaming on Hulu and Disney+, captivating subscribers with their blend of suspense and emotional storytelling.

In summary, Shailene Woodley’s experience on ‘Paradise’ not only highlights her adaptability as an actress but also showcases her ability to draw from personal resilience while navigating complex character arcs. As the series progresses, both Woodley and the audience find themselves united in their shared journey of discovery, eagerly anticipating the twists and turns that lie ahead in this vividly crafted post-apocalyptic narrative.