The 'Orange is the New Black' Cast: How Did Their Personal Stories Influence Their Roles?

Answer 1

Laverne Cox as Sophia Burset. Cox's own experiences as a transgender woman surely influenced how she played Sophia. She was able to bring authenticity to Sophia's journey of transitioning in prison, facing discrimination, and still trying to hold on to her identity. It was not just acting but also her real - life understanding of the struggles of the transgender community that made Sophia such a memorable character.

Answer 2

Yael Stone as Lorna Morello. Stone had to understand Lorna's delusions and her complex love life. Her own acting journey and exploration of different characters might have helped her in creating Lorna's unique personality. She might have used her own experiences of dealing with different types of people and relationships to build Lorna's character, who has a very distinct view on love and relationships while being in prison.

Answer 3

For Danielle Brooks, who played Taystee. Brooks came from a different background but was able to bring Taystee's story of growing up in the system and trying to find her place in the world to life. Her own experiences of working hard to get into acting might have influenced how she played Taystee's determination to better herself in prison, like through education programs.