Hollywood Star Shabana Azeez almost misses train
Adelaide actor Shabana Azeez has been making waves in Hollywood lately with her breakout role in the hit medical drama series, The Pitt, and the animated feature, Lesbian Space Princess, making the rounds at film festivals.
For Azeez, landing the role on The Pitt was surprisingly smooth sailing. Despite her lack of formal acting training, she impressed the casting team with just one self-tape audition followed by a nine-minute casting Zoom. With her visa sorted, she packed her bags and headed to Hollywood to join the cast of this melodramatic hospital series.
Working alongside seasoned actors like Noah Wyle and Katherine LaNasa was a dream come true for Azeez. She especially praises Wyle for his professionalism and generosity towards the younger actors on set. In her significant ensemble role as Dr. Victoria Javadi, Azeez shines as the youngest intern trying to prove herself in a high-pressure environment.
The intense medical setting of the show required all cast members to undergo medical training boot camp to realistically simulate emergency procedures on screen. Real doctors were on hand to guide them through techniques like intubation and suture stitching.
Starting her acting career later in life, Azeez initially hesitated pursuing her passion due to concerns about the instability of the industry. However, after starring in a few short films and forming a musical comedy act called The Coconuts with filmmaker Leela Varghese, she found her stride.
Having made a name for herself in Adelaide’s entertainment scene, Azeez appreciates the support and camaraderie within the small industry network. Her success with The Pitt and the critical acclaim she’s received have opened up new opportunities, including a second season of the show and filming in Los Angeles and Pittsburgh.
Despite her busy schedule with international projects, Azeez continues to work on local films like Varghese’s short film, “I’m the Most Racist Person I Know,” which recently won a Special Jury award at SXSW in Austin, Texas. Her journey from Adelaide to Hollywood is a testament to her talent and determination, and fans can catch her performance in The Pitt on streaming platforms like Binge.
