5 Questions with 'Homeland' Star Sarita Choudhury
In addition to chronicling terrorism's devastating global effects, Homeland does a phenomenal job of examining the interpersonal breakdowns these dedicated professionals endure as a result of their jobs. On the currently airing third season, Saul's marriage to Mira has taken on new importance as his discovery of her affair led to a romantic gesture of massive personal proportions. To find out what it means for Sunday's all-new episode, ETonline chatted with actress Sarita Choudhury.
ETonline: What has been your take on season three?
Sarita Choudhury: It's interesting because I know the scripts so there was a certain story happening in my head, but when the viewers watch it, they don't have as much information as I do, and their reactions week to week are kind of shocking because they're reacting based solely on the information they've been given. So on the one hand, it's endearing because they're so passionate. On the other hand, it makes me think I'm not looking at the show properly because sometimes I think fans are seeing things I'm not -- and they might be right. It's amazing.
ETonline: What's been your takeaway with Mira's role in season three?
Choudhury: They had told me a little bit and I was super excited not to just be in the position of leaving Saul and going to India or berating him. I was excited to take on a more active role, and equally excited because through that, the relationship with my partner grows. Mandy [Patinkin] and I have had more time together and looking at him now, I know him so much better than in season one.
ETonline: Last week ended on a very ambiguous moment. What was going through her mind during that hug as he says everything I'm sure she wished he'd said months ago?
Choudhury: Exactly! She didn't expect him to walk into the room. He usually comes home, walks upstairs and goes to his room. You know in life when you break free of someone, when you need them less, it's like they can smell it and they come and offer everything you need to hear. That moment, in my head, it was a moment of "Oh My God, he's in my room, he's walking towards me, he's touching my waist." It was step by step; nothing was pre-planned because she didn't’t see it that way.
ETonline: Is she interested in reconciling?
Choudhury: I think it's up to Saul, in a way. The holding and asking for forgiveness is the beginning and because she finally went out there, had an affair and is liberated on some level. At this point, Saul has to do double work in her head. They've been together for so long and she loves Saul, but that's not in question -- his lack of initiation has led her to feel like these dormant feelings won't be woken up.
ETonline: What can you tease about Sunday's episode?
Choudhury: Mira is given a choice and if Saul could step up, she's there. But it's been a while since he's followed through. She's more used to him trying to fix things than actually making them work. She's used to the first steps but has never seen the second step. And the second one is the sexy one. anyone can do the first step.
Homeland airs Sundays at 9 p.m. on Showtime.