XO, Kitty's Rising Star: Sasha Bhasin's Journey to Success

Sasha Bhasin, the captivating Praveena in Netflix's hit show XO, Kitty, season 2, is a whirlwind of energy and talent. From her Florida upbringing to conquering the New York acting scene and ultimately landing a coveted role in a globally loved series, Bhasin's story is one of resilience, determination, and a healthy dose of self-belief. This interview delves into the exciting journey of this rising star, revealing unexpected twists and turns along the way.

The Early Years and the Selena Gomez Effect

Growing up in Wellington, Florida, Bhasin always felt drawn to the spotlight. Early childhood performances for family laid the groundwork for her future aspirations. However, the path wasn't always clear. It was Selena Gomez's 2011 hit, "Who Says," that ignited Bhasin's determination to pursue acting as a career. This pivotal moment sparked hours of online research into the success stories of Gomez and Miley Cyrus, fueling her ambition and setting her on the course to achieving her dreams.

The path to becoming a professional actress wasn't without challenges. Bhasin recalls a Disney Channel open call in Virginia, where despite months of preparation, the pressure of the audition overwhelmed her. "I got into that room, and I froze," she recounts, highlighting the importance of building confidence and overcoming nerves.

Finding Her Voice in New York

It wasn't until Bhasin attended NYU that she truly found her voice and confidence as an actor. While studying politics, she immersed herself in the vibrant New York arts scene, attending plays, taking improv classes, and ultimately 'finessed' an agent. This period proved crucial in solidifying her passion and honing her skills. The city became a significant backdrop for many of her early acting successes, including her first commercial for Tarte Cosmetics, a pivotal step in her career trajectory.

The Unexpected Success of XO, Kitty

Bhasin's journey continued with the unexpected success of her audition for XO, Kitty. Despite initial self-doubt, Bhasin's well-prepared audition tape impressed the casting team. Her chemistry with Anna Cathcart, who plays the lead character, Kitty, proved undeniable. Landing the role was both exciting and terrifying, highlighting the intensity of transitioning from aspiring actor to a lead on a major Netflix series. The experience of filming in Seoul, South Korea also was a moment of significant personal growth. The flight to Asia involved a unique challenge for her, leading to an anxiety attack.

Praveena: A Groundbreaking Character

Bhasin's portrayal of Praveena, Kitty's love interest, resonated profoundly. Praveena's open queerness, particularly as an Indian character in a globally accessible show, was a significant achievement, highlighting the changing representations of LGBTQ+ individuals. Bhasin is also a bilingual actor, having learned Korean for the role.

Praveena's Relationships and Future

Praveena's relationship with Kitty, marked by romantic tension and a key misunderstanding, provided rich opportunities for Bhasin's acting skills. Although their romantic story was ultimately interrupted by Kitty's actions, Bhasin expresses understanding for Kitty's character and her impulsive nature. Bhasin's personal preferences lie with Kitty and Min Ho, while also noting the potential for an unexpected storyline involving Kitty and Juliana (Praveena's girlfriend).

Beyond XO, Kitty: A Multi-Talented Star

Bhasin's talent extends beyond acting. Inspired by her XO, Kitty castmates, she's venturing into the music world, planning an EP with a Fiona Apple-inspired aesthetic. With a vision board that has already manifested many of her previous goals, she's looking toward the future with clear-eyed ambition, determined to utilize her platform to make a positive impact on the world. Her upcoming projects include roles in The Pitt and her first feature film, Brave the Dark. Her dedication to her craft and her eagerness to learn and grow make her a captivating figure, ready to take on new challenges in various spheres. Bhasin's journey is far from over; the future shines brightly for this exceptional young talent. The next chapter for Praveena and Bhasin themselves is equally exciting, full of promise, and brimming with potential. The world watches, captivated by her talent and her commitment to her art, her goals, and to others.