She began filming the second season of Life on Call nearly a month after giving birth. Why did she decide to return to work so soon, and how did she manage the challenge?
People often assume that life falls neatly into before and after once a child arrives. When she wasn’t a mother, she thought she could bounce back quickly. Yet reality rarely aligns with those expectations. The moment she learned the schedule for the second season, she believed a one-month recovery would suffice, so she committed to the project and the cast assembled for those dates. Even before motherhood, she understood the work would proceed in April, pregnancy notwithstanding, and she accepted that timeline.
After giving birth, she realized that her earlier confidence came from inexperience. She doesn’t claim to have achieved instant success, but she put in the effort to perform and build rapport with others. A new mother remains influenced by hormones, lactation, and the adjustment period, which presented several obstacles. Nevertheless, she prevailed. Now, with her baby six months old, she is grateful that the project moved forward in this way. The result is a portrayal that viewers find striking, conveying warmth and vitality in the character of Lisa Moryak.
Based on her experience, how soon after childbirth does she recommend returning to filming?
She suggests six months as a practical guideline. Maternity leave can extend longer, even years, depending on personal needs. But regarding physical recovery and overall health, she believes six months can be enough for a woman to regain a form she is comfortable with, even if it is not the pre-birth shape. This timeframe acknowledges the body’s natural healing and the demands of a new routine.
How did she prepare for the role?
Preparation was mindful and thorough given the fresh postpartum context. She aimed to look glamorous on camera so the audience would see continuity with the first season, not a diminished version of the character. The goal was to capture the essence of a younger Nastya with a spark in her eyes, ensuring the performance would be read as energetic and appealing. A lot of makeup testing followed, and even a casting change occurred to achieve a distinctive, captivating frame.
Her husband, who directs the series, supported her in shaping the heroine’s image. One memorable moment involved a tuxedo scene with a bow tie and no shirt beneath the jacket, a look inspired by a fashion icon that proved to be visually striking on screen.
What changes for the hero in the second season? Will there be more of him on screen?
At the premiere of the first season, many viewers assumed Nastya would be the central focus. In later episodes, her character’s arc was clarified, and her editor noted a desire for a sequel exploring the lead and development of other figures. The director and she agreed on maintaining harmony between the two leads, with the hope that the hero’s journey would shine just as brightly. The second season presents the hero’s evolution at a pace that mirrors personal growth—dramatic shifts that reflect real-life change. The actor notes that her own transformation parallels the character’s shift, making the performance feel authentic. She has not yet watched the second season, but she finds the material incredibly engaging.
What are her thoughts on the escort industry?
She declines to judge others, recognizing that each person makes choices about their own life. The stories of escort workers often stem from childhood trauma or difficult family dynamics. This is a nuanced topic, and she prefers not to condemn anyone, acknowledging that personal histories shape decisions.
Do criticisms of the series, including concerns about portraying women, have merit?
She admits she hasn’t read a particular article about the debate. In any case, public figures face scrutiny as a constant reality of fame. Filming, personal life, appearance, and even what one eats can become topics of discussion. A large audience and ongoing fan support matter more to her, and she notes that criticism can be a signal of visibility and influence. The series has a broad following, and she receives messages from viewers across the country, praising the work and the performances.
Has she ever appeared nude onscreen?
She emphasizes that acting should showcase talent and expertise rather than the physique. If necessary, she would rather rely on collaboration with other performers to convey the story, suggesting that her strength lies in the craft itself rather than physical display.
What does motherhood feel like now, and when did that realization occur?
She speaks candidly to aspiring mothers, offering support and acknowledging the emotional roller coaster that accompanies early motherhood. Emotions can swing from joy to exhaustion, and sleep can be scarce. The initial months demand full commitment and sacrifice, with the child relying on the parent around the clock. She notes that, after six months, routines begin to settle, routines include vegetables and fruits, and nighttime sleep patterns improve. The experience leaves a lasting impression, and the memories of those days stay with her in a tangible way.