Laysla De Oliveira shares insights on training and character development in 'Lioness' Season 3, revealing how the role shaped her life.
In simple terms, Laysla De Oliveira has embraced her role in the hit spy thriller ‘Lioness,’ leading to a transformative journey for both her character and herself. Announced in an interview with Nicole Fell at The Hollywood Reporter on August 3, 2026, she revealed how the training and experiences from the series have significantly influenced her personal and professional life.
What happened is that De Oliveira, who portrays Cruz Manuelos, has developed a strong affinity for the action-packed demands of her role. After three seasons of honing her skills, she joked about evolving from a “girly pop” to someone who actively assesses her environment for safety. This shift underscores her commitment to her character and the series’ rigorous physicality, which requires intense preparation and training.
De Oliveira acknowledged that her transformation into an accidental action star was not something she anticipated. "I did not lift a single weight before I booked this part," she shared. Initially, during Season 1, her character primarily operated undercover, resulting in fewer action sequences. However, as her character became a Delta Force operator in Season 2, the physical training ramped up significantly.
With insights garnered from The Hollywood Reporter, De Oliveira confirmed that her approach to training became more robust in preparation for Season 3, which premiered on Paramount+. She mentioned, "If you’re not ready, you don’t survive," indicating the physical challenges actors face while filming.
The actress provided a glimpse into the demanding nature of the show, pointing out that actors are required to master realistic combat scenarios. "The reality of the situation is you do it so that you can even hold the weight of the weapons, of the vests, of the helmet," she explained. These preparation techniques not only promote safety on set but also enhance their performances.
This hefty training routine is complemented by a pre-season boot camp at Taylor Sheridan's ranch, where the cast participates in close-quarters combat training. This focused preparation enables them to memorize critical positions and effectively respond to scripts upon release.
De Oliveira expressed how being involved with ‘Lioness’ profoundly altered her perceptions, recalling a conversation with a New York City server. The experience made her realize the extent to which her character’s mindset had seeped into her daily life. "It’s just completely changed my brain composition," she noted. This internal change reflects the intricacies involved in taking on such dynamic and multifaceted roles.
Additionally, De Oliveira acknowledged the camaraderie among the cast, including Zoe Saldaña and Nicole Kidman, emphasizing the collaborative effort in producing the show. Given the unique shooting style on ‘Lioness,’ which sometimes uses up to seven cameras, actors are always performing at their best—much like on a live stage.
De Oliveira highlighted the importance of safety measures when handling weapons on the set. The show utilizes blank rounds to achieve realism while ensuring the cast is well-trained on requisite protocols. "You never want to show up on the day and not feel secure about what you’re doing," she remarked. Moreover, the involvement of military advisors further solidifies their commitment to authenticity.
This comprehensive training regime allows De Oliveira to navigate her responsibilities with confidence, reinforcing her belief that continued practice and preparedness are integral to skill development.
The evolution of Laysla De Oliveira's character Cruz Manuelos in ‘Lioness’ is not just about action sequences; it's a testament to her personal growth and the stark realities actors face in high-stakes roles. As viewers witness the transformation onscreen, they will also be privy to the rich training experiences that sculpt not only their performances but also their lives. The emphasis on realism, safety, and physical readiness creates a unique viewing experience which makes ‘Lioness’ a standout show in current television.
For fans looking to explore more about the ongoing developments in television, you can check out reports on Ted Lasso Season 4 and the Star Trek franchise.
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