Elizaveta Neretin is stepping into a major new chapter of her career as she joins the cast of Lioness Season 3, a moment she describes as almost impossible to believe. After years of watching and admiring the work of some of Hollywood’s most respected performers, the actress now finds herself sharing the screen with two of the industry’s biggest names, Zoe Saldaña and Nicole Kidman. For Neretin, becoming a colleague of these acclaimed actresses is not just a professional milestone, but a surreal experience that continues to leave her amazed every time she walks onto the set.

While details surrounding her character remain carefully protected, Neretin has revealed that her role as a series regular carries significant importance in the upcoming season. She has described her character as “the spark that ignites the story,” suggesting that the new addition will play a key role in shaping the direction of the series. Although she cannot reveal many specifics about the storyline, Neretin has been open about the incredible opportunity of working alongside the talented team behind the action-packed drama.

The actress admitted that sharing a production with Zoe Saldaña and Nicole Kidman still feels unreal. Having grown up watching their performances and drawing inspiration from their careers, she never imagined that she would eventually become their colleague. Neretin explained that seeing them not only as legendary performers but also as fellow actors on the same set has been a truly special experience.

For Neretin, the opportunity to join Lioness feels like the realization of a dream built over years of admiration for powerful female characters in cinema. She grew up watching action films featuring strong women who faced dangerous situations and complex challenges. Movies such as Salt and Sicario had a particularly strong impact on her, with Sicario also introducing her to the work of Taylor Sheridan, the creator and executive producer of Lioness.

The actress explained that many of the female-led action stories she watched throughout her life helped shape the way she approaches her performances today. Seeing women take on demanding roles in intense environments gave her a deeper understanding of the type of characters that Lioness explores. She believes that years of watching these stories have helped her develop an instinctive connection to the genre, while still requiring careful preparation once she receives a script.

Neretin noted that preparing for a role in a series as complex as Lioness involves much more than physical performance. She approaches the material through detailed script analysis, studying the character’s motivations, emotions, and circumstances. At the same time, she relies on imagination to fully understand the world her character exists within. The combination of preparation and creativity allows her to bring authenticity to a story filled with action, tension, and emotional depth.

Beyond the action elements, Lioness has gained attention for exploring stories that connect with real-world political and social issues. Neretin shared that this aspect of the series has a deeply personal meaning for her. As someone with both Ukrainian and Russian heritage, she understands the emotional weight of conflicts taking place in Eastern Europe.

The actress explained that the themes explored in the show feel very real because of her own background and connection to the region. She expressed gratitude for being able to participate in a story that examines these issues and to represent one perspective through her character. For Neretin, acting in Lioness is not only about entertainment but also about contributing to a narrative that reflects complicated realities.

Working alongside an impressive ensemble cast has made the experience even more meaningful. In addition to Zoe Saldaña and Nicole Kidman, the series features Academy Award winner Morgan Freeman, Emmy nominee Michael Kelly, Laysla De Oliveira, Dave Annable, Jill Wagner, LaMonica Garrett, James Jordan, Genesis Rodriguez, and other talented performers. Neretin’s addition to the cast places her among a group of actors known for delivering intense and memorable performances.

As Season 3 continues the story of Lioness, Neretin’s arrival brings a fresh presence to the series. Her admiration for the actresses she once watched from afar, combined with her personal connection to the themes of the show, has made this opportunity especially meaningful. From being inspired by powerful women on screen to now standing beside some of those same figures, Neretin’s journey represents a remarkable turning point in her career.

With new episodes of Lioness Season 3 arriving weekly on Paramount+, audiences will soon discover how Neretin’s character influences the evolving storyline. Although she remains limited in what she can reveal, her excitement and respect for the project are clear. For an actress who once viewed these stars as distant inspirations, becoming part of the same creative world is a moment she continues to treasure.