Interview: Natasha Lyonne discusses the return of ‘Russian Doll,’ elevating female voices and wild thrift store finds [VIDEO]

Natasha Lyonne is much more than what she appears. Lyonne rose to prominence by starring films such as American Pie and But I’m a Cheerleader and had a series of smaller roles over the next few years before landing a major role in Netflix’s Orange is the New Black and most recently, Russian Doll (another Netflix original), both of which earned her Emmy nominations. This journey has molded Lyonne into a fearless performer who bears her soul with each line she utters. There’s a reason why Russian Doll is such a smash hit: it begins and ends with Lyonne.

I spoke with Lyonne and was able to dig deep with her into the origins of her hit show. The conversation then shifted to her motivations for uplifting female voices, the public’s perception of her, the fear that comes with authenticity, and even a neat thrift store find she snagged.

Natasha Lyonne is Emmy eligible for Outstanding Comedy Series, Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series, Outstanding Directing for a Comedy Series and Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series for Russian Doll.