Sarah Shahi, the accomplished actress known for her role as Dr. Gabriela Torabi in the acclaimed series “Paradise,” recently opened up about her approach to maintaining positivity, even while filming intense and darker scenes. Speaking to journalists at the 78th Annual Emmy Awards, Shahi expressed her commitment to a hopeful outlook, explaining how this mindset helps her navigate the challenges posed by her character’s dystopian narrative.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Sarah-Shahi-emmys-091426-90834b9f9747403fa3c0fc1708afba40.jpg)
At 46, Shahi has discovered effective strategies to shield herself from the weighty themes present in “Paradise.” The series, created by Dan Fogelman, is set in a post-apocalyptic world, which inherently brings a certain gravity to the material. However, during interviews with outlets like PEOPLE and Entertainment Weekly, she revealed that she holds a steadfast belief in the universe’s supportive nature, stating, “I have this unnerving belief that the universe will never set me up to fail.”
This philosophy acts as her guiding principle, particularly when grappling with the series’ more harrowing moments. Shahi elaborated, “I don’t take this home. I choose to live in a world of bubbles and pink elephants and laughing children and puppies, and I just take it day by day.” Her ability to compartmentalise the emotional weight of her role is something she takes pride in, noting, “I control what I can control and the rest of it, I just give it up to God.”
“Paradise” has already garnered significant recognition, securing seven nominations for the upcoming 2026 Emmy Awards, including a nod for Outstanding Drama Series. The success of the show has been underscored by other recognitions as well, with Shailene Woodley recently winning the award for Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series. In her heartfelt acceptance speech, Woodley shared her humble gratitude, saying, “I just feel so lucky to do what we do and to be a part of the circus with all of you amazing traveling storytelling clowns.”
As anticipation builds for the new season, production for “Paradise” has already commenced for its third instalment. Sterling K. Brown, who stars alongside Shahi, expressed his enthusiasm for the show’s evolving storyline. Reflecting on the new season, he remarked, “I feel like it’s the third act of a film.” Brown noted that the series was designed as a three-season arc, which created a sense of cohesive storytelling he found appealing from the start. “I believe our audience is going to be deeply satisfied with how we land,” he said.
The global reception of “Paradise” has pleasantly surprised both the cast and the show’s creator. Brown mentioned that following the series’ premiere in 2025, the show’s popularity surged unexpectedly. He recounted how the response during an event in Brazil was overwhelmingly positive, further affirming the show’s international reach and impact. “For season 1, we went to London and we went to France, and we were like, ‘Folks are messing with this show everywhere,’” he explained.
The show’s captivating narrative and character development have resonated across various borders, with even passersby in Australia expressing their enthusiasm. Reflecting on his previous hit series, “This Is Us,” Brown remarked on the different trajectory of “Paradise,” stating, “It feels like Paradise hit the globe in a way that I don’t think … we didn’t anticipate. It’s been lovely.”
As “Paradise” continues to thrive, both critically and in popular culture, the dedication and camaraderie among the cast and crew remain palpable. Shahi’s deliberate focus on joy and positivity amidst the dark themes of the show serves as both a personal safeguard and an inspiring testament to resilience in the entertainment industry. As the series prepares to unfold its next chapter, fans and cast alike await with bated breath.