Sarah Paulson is a master of her craft, known for her ability to captivate audiences with her nuanced performances. Whether she is playing a villain or a complex lead character, she brings a sense of energy and depth to her roles. Currently starring in the critically acclaimed Broadway play “Appropriate,” Paulson is praised for her ability to bring out the vulnerable and complicated aspects of her characters. Despite her on-screen intensity, in person, Paulson is warm, funny, and attuned to little details, making her a joy to be around.
Paulson’s personal life is often in the spotlight due to her relationship with actress Holland Taylor, who is 32 years her senior. Their partnership has faced public commentary, prompting Paulson to defend her loved ones fiercely. On stage, Paulson portrays the character Antoinette “Toni” Lafayette in Branden Jacobs-Jenkins’ drama “Appropriate.” This play delves into the dysfunctional dynamics of a family gathering at a former plantation, with Paulson’s character embodying a complex mix of denial and self-righteousness.
“Appropriate” has become the hot ticket of the season, attracting celebrity audience members like Bradley Cooper, Angelina Jolie, and Courteney Cox. Paulson’s talent for portraying real-life figures has also been highlighted in her roles as prosecutor Marcia Clark in “The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story” and Linda Tripp in “Impeachment: American Crime Story.” She finds playing real people particularly rewarding, appreciating the concreteness and depth it adds to her performances.
Behind the scenes, Paulson grapples with the challenges of audience distractions and etiquette during live performances of “Appropriate.” She notes the prevalence of phone use, noise, and other disruptions that can affect the cast’s emotional journey. Despite these challenges, Paulson remains dedicated to her craft, drawing on a warmup playlist that includes Taylor Swift songs to help her get into character before each show. She also reminisces about memorable outfit choices and the emotional significance of each wardrobe selection.
Offstage, Paulson values her downtime, preferring to spend time at home covered in dogs rather than jewels. She cherishes the moments when her furry companions shower her with love and affection. As the cast of “Appropriate” grows closer, Paulson looks forward to spending more time with her colleagues outside of work, fostering a sense of camaraderie and support. With the play’s extended run and continued success, Paulson is grateful for the opportunity to be part of a long-gestating production that has exceeded her expectations and resonated with audiences.
