Maisie Williams, the former Arya Stark of Game of Thrones fame, has always been known for her fearless and transformative approach to her roles. However, her latest endeavor, portraying Catherine Dior in “The New Look,” required a level of commitment and physical transformation that surpassed any challenge she had faced before.
At 26, Maisie is stepping into the shoes of Catherine Dior, the younger sister of legendary designer Christian Dior, known for her involvement in the French Resistance during the Nazi occupation of France. In a recent interview with Harper’s Bazaar U.K., Maisie candidly opened up about the toll this transformative role took on her, both mentally and physically.
To embody the resilience and strength of Catherine Dior, Maisie embarked on a journey that included shedding around 25 pounds and shaving her head. This marked a departure from her iconic Arya Stark image, illustrating the depth of commitment she brings to her craft.
Her preparation for the role involved a meticulous routine that went beyond conventional acting preparations. Maisie delved into the psychological and physical aspects of her character by altering her diet, embracing meditation, and incorporating unique rituals into her daily life.
“I was eating very little, meditating all the time, burning candles and incense in my apartment,” Maisie shared. Her dedication to the role extended to sweating out weight before filming, highlighting the lengths she went to in order to authentically portray the wartime struggles of Catherine Dior.
Maisie’s pre-filming diet was as intriguing as it was challenging. The night before a shoot, she allowed herself a small indulgence: “At about 7 or 8 pm, I was allowed to have something salty and dehydrating – some smoked salmon and a tiny glass of wine. Then I had a boiling-hot bath with lots of salts in it. And I sort of levitated to bed and slept for maybe three hours, and woke up and had a handful of nuts.” This meticulous routine reflects the actress’s commitment to her craft and the transformative power she invests in her characters.
The physical toll, however, was only part of the story. Maisie also disclosed the mental and emotional challenges she faced during this process. Struggling with sleep, she recounted nightmares and episodes resembling sleep paralysis, giving a glimpse into the psychological impact of her preparation. Despite the hardships, Maisie’s dedication remained unwavering.
Playing Arya Stark in Game of Thrones involved “building different muscles,” but even that preparation paled in comparison to the exhaustive work required for “The New Look.” Maisie elaborated, stating that this process “took over what I’m eating and how I’m moving and sleeping and thinking.” Her commitment to authenticity and the depth of her involvement in the character’s world are evident in every aspect of her preparation.
Maisie’s journey in “The New Look” not only showcases her remarkable acting prowess but also highlights the challenges actors willingly embrace for the sake of their craft. As Maisie Williams steps into the shoes of Catherine Dior, her transformative journey becomes a testament to the dedication and artistry that underlie the world of filmmaking. The weight loss is not just a physical change; it represents the lengths actors go to encapsulate the essence of their characters, bringing stories to life in the most compelling and authentic way possible.
