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How Natasha Rothwell’s Life Brought Her to “The White Lotus”

33m 40s

In this episode, Natasha Rothwell shares how she connects to Belinda’s journey of self-discovery in "The White Lotus" and how she collaborated with creator Mike White to bring greater nuance to the character. She reflects on the importance of diverse storytelling in Hollywood, the inspiration she drew from actress Nell Carter, and why she believes the arts are an empathy machine.

Aired: 08/25/25
Support for American Masters is provided by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, AARP, Rosalind P. Walter Foundation, Judith and Burton Resnick, Blanche and Hayward Cirker Charitable Lead Annuity Trust, Koo and Patricia Yuen, Lillian Goldman Programming Endowment, Seton J. Melvin, Thea Petschek Iervolino Foundation, Anita and Jay Kaufman, The Philip and Janice Levin Foundation, Kate W. Cassidy Foundation, The Blanche and Irving Laurie Foundation, The Ambrose Monell Foundation, Ellen and James S. Marcus, The Charina Endowment Fund, The Marc Haas Foundation and public television viewers.
Extras
Learn about Marlee Matlin, Oscar-winning actress and champion of the Deaf community.
Marlee Matlin visits the house she grew up in Morton Grove, Illinois.
Marlee Matlin refused to allow a hearing actor to play her Deaf husband in the 2021 film “CODA.”
Henry Winkler took Marlee Matlin in for two years while she recovered from a turbulent time.
Singer-songwriter Sarah McLachlan opens up in a candid interview about making music.
Harvey Fierstein talks to director Michael Kantor backstage during the production of "Hairspray."
Ringo Starr describes his friendship with Mae West.
Actor Daniel Dae Kim on his groundbreaking career and new project, "Butterfly."
Discover this portrait of the Cuban-American graphic artist and graphic novelist Edel Rodriguez.
Discover this portrait of the Cuban-American graphic artist and graphic novelist Edel Rodriguez.