Introduced in the third episode of Apple TV’s new series, _Foundation_, actress Kubbra Sait’s character plays an essential role in the sci-fi series. Her first foreign project, the Indian actress plays the role of Phara, a highly motivated and strong-willed character who seeks redemption and vengeance.
Foundation was adapted from the book series of the same title, written by Isaac Asimov starting in the 1940’s until the early 90’s. As a fan of the books as a child, Kubbra was elated to join the project playing such a big role.
_Flaunt_ got the chance to sit down with Kubbra to discuss landing the role, what drew her to this character, and what it was like working on her first American-based project.
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**How does it feel to be starring in an Apple TV original?**
It is surreal to say the least. I am this human who was drawn to the technology of Apple products almost for a decade now. It adds an aspirational value from where I come from. Then one unassuming day you receive a call from Tess Joseph (a casting agent) in India who is working with Lucinda Syson in the UK. They want to test an Indian to play a badass character from a whole different planet, she is fictional as is her planet. I got to audition, and I land the part.
It took three months of deliberation from the makers to confirm me for the part of Phara Keaen. Honestly, an ocean of sweat trickled down my back. I knew it meant a lot more than I expected it to be.
It's a global launch for me. Its a foreign language. New work ethics, and just a whole lot of fun. I don't think I could have asked for a better starting point into Western cinema.
**What drew you to the character of Phara? Do you see any of yourself in her?**
Phara is fiesty. She is aggressive and brash. She has a single focus vision, and she _will_ destroy anything and anyone who comes in her way. She is desperate.
Thankfully, now I've learned exactly who I do not want to be.
I love her scars. I love that I wasn't made up... but the second I wore her boots, I was her. I felt her fury in my bespoke lines.
**How would you describe _Foundation_?**
It's a saga that unfolds over many universes and innumerable time jumps. It has been beautifully textured to map itself to today's going concerns, it debates what is true to us as humanity. Issac Assimov is a philosopher, a genius who could create the dystopian world we are inhabiting on this planet in this time. It's a visual marvel to taste and experience. I am delighted to hear the show will run a season 2. I am hopeful that it will have many more seasons to speak of the vision of the mighty Assimov and David S Goyer.
**What can we expect from Phara this season?**
Brutality. Conviction. Determination. Pain. Hurt. Manipulation.
**How does it feel to be a part of such a diverse cast?**
I felt I fit right in. I am a traveler at heart, and I don't say this because it sounds good in an interview. I say it, because my year (including the last two years of Covid) would not be rounded off if I didn't visit a new country. I've traveled most of the world as a solo traveler, and here on this set, meeting people who swiftly became family and people you can fall on in times of confusion and distress dialed my inspiration up.
Daniel McPhearson asked me if I was, “Born to play Phara?" He said, "At the end of the shoot, come and tell me... Yes Dan I was." I eventually did say, "Yes."
Leah Harvey was my rock even before I got the part. She was warm and caring and loving. I met her mum.
Clarke Peters made me so happy with his giggles and hugs.
There were birthday and Christmas gifts exchanged. Meals cooked and laughs shared on many occasions. It was home away from home.
I did miss my cat quite bitterly though.
**If you could choose, what would your dream role be?**
I haven't found the inspiration to play my "dream role" but the people I am working with are constantly ensuring I am one step closer to realise my dreams.
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Photographed by [Rahul Jhangiani](https://www.instagram.com/rahuljhangiani/?hl=en)
Styled by [Sanam Ratansi](https://www.instagram.com/sanamratansi/?hl=en)
Hair & Makeup: [Charlotte Wang](https://www.instagram.com/charlottewang_hmua/?hl=en)
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