Sepideh Moafi Discusses Joining ‘The Pitt’ Actress Cast

Sepideh Moafi has recently shared her experiences and thoughts on joining the cast of the acclaimed medical drama, The Pitt. As the only new series regular in the show’s upcoming season, she portrays Dr. Baran Al-Hashimi, a veteran attending physician.

First Day Surprises on The Pitt Set

Moafi’s first day on set was unexpected. Called three days earlier due to the production being ahead of schedule, she had to rush from her pilates class. The show’s unique format means that the look seen in the first episode carries through the entire season, adding to the urgency of her arrival.

“No set in the history of the world is ever ahead of schedule,” Moafi remarked. However, she felt ready and supported by the experienced crew, particularly the hair and makeup teams who helped her prepare for her role.

Character Introduction

In The Pitt, Moafi’s character, Dr. Al-Hashimi, comes on board to take over the responsibilities of Dr. Robby, played by Noah Wyle, during his sabbatical. This pivotal role reflects the series’ exploration of the medical profession’s challenges.

Originally not drawn to medical dramas, Moafi changed her perspective after binging The Pitt. “Everyone told me this show is different,” she expressed. She recognized the show’s human element, setting it apart from typical hospital-themed narratives.

Exploring Themes of Power and Vulnerability

Moafi was drawn to The Pitt for its focus on the intersections of power, vulnerability, and representation. She highlighted the sickle cell storyline from the previous season as a significant example of its commitment to authentic storytelling.

• Character development and representation are central themes.
• Storylines reflect broader societal issues regarding healthcare and identity.

Personal Connections to Healthcare

Moafi shared personal experiences that shaped her views on healthcare, including a traumatic event involving her sister. These experiences inform her portrayal of Dr. Al-Hashimi and her character’s perspective on medical practices.

Moafi expressed a transformative stance on the role of AI in healthcare represented by her character, emphasizing the tools’ potential to support rather than replace doctors. “She’s advocating support and reducing burnout,” she noted.

The Journey of a New Character

As Dr. Al-Hashimi, Moafi aims to challenge the culture within the hospital, suggesting new practices, although she faces resistance from some established characters. This dynamic mirrors Moafi’s own experience of integrating into an already well-established cast.

She described Dr. Al-Hashimi as a character who is dedicated but sometimes misunderstood, adding complexity to the show’s narrative.

Choreography and Technical Realism

Learning the intricacies of medical procedures was a significant part of Moafi’s preparation. Collaboration with technical advisors and real-life medical professionals ensured the portrayal remained authentic. The process involved extensive choreography to depict medical scenarios accurately.

Engagement with Fandom and Future Prospects

Moafi acknowledged The Pitt’s dedicated fanbase while expressing a desire to focus on her performance rather than getting too involved in online theories and discussions. However, she does enjoy the creativity and engagement that comes with a passionate audience.

The upcoming season promises to deepen the exploration of its characters and themes, with Moafi’s Dr. Al-Hashimi at its forefront, navigating the complexities of the medical field within a story rich in humanity.