Alison Brie & Essie Randles Discuss the Sisterly Bond in Apples Never Fall and Embracing New Roles

Alison Brie and Essie Randles star as sisters in the Peacock mystery show, Apples Never Fall. Brie, known for her roles in Community and GLOW, plays Amy - the carefree descendant of the Delaney family who feels like an outsider. Randles, in her breakout role, portrays Brooke, the more reserved sister who is having doubts about marrying her chef girlfriend, Gina.

The sisters' lives take a dramatic turn when their mother, Joy (played by Annette Bening), goes missing at a farmer's market. As they search for her, suspecting their father Stan (played by Sam Neill), Amy and Brooke uncover secrets about their family. The talented ensemble cast of Apples Never Fall also includes Jake Lacy, Georgia Flood, Conor Merrigan Turner, Jeanine Serralles, and Dylan Turaisingham.

Alison Brie and Essie Randles Discuss "Apples Never Fall" Characters

In anticipation of the show's arrival, Screen Rant had the opportunity to interview Alison Brie and Essie Randles to discuss their roles in "Apples Never Fall." The actresses talked about the joy of building their sisterly dynamic on screen, Randles landing her biggest role to date, and how the characters differ from their usual roles.

Randles' Reaction to Landing Her Role

Randles expressed her disbelief when she landed her role in "Apples Never Fall," stating, "This doesn't happen."

Essie Randles as Brooke smiling in Apples Never Fall - Randles Had One Thought When She Landed Her Role: "This Doesn't Happen"

Screen Rant: Hi there! I can't wait to discuss this show with you both. I've watched four episodes already, and it's been amazing. Essie, I wanted to ask you first. How did you feel when you were offered this role, especially considering it's one of your first major projects?

Essie Randles: You know, when they asked me to be on the show, I went through the audition process. I did a self-tape first, then went through multiple callbacks. Finally, I got the job when I was at work, just as my shift was starting —

Alison Brie: Oh, interesting! What were you doing at work when you found out?

Essie Randles: I was ushering at a theater company when I received the call from my team that I got the role. I was so shocked that I fell to the ground and couldn't stop laughing for a while [chuckles]. It seemed so unbelievable to me because I never thought I would actually get my dream job. I guess I was just really lucky.

Alison, I must say you truly deserve this role! Now, I'd like to ask you about your character in this show. We often see you portray characters who are very much in control of their lives, like Annie in Community. How was it different exploring a character who is more spiritual and chaotic in nature?

Alison Brie: I appreciate your question. I agree with you, describing Amy as chaotic is spot on. Playing a character like her was a blast, and one of the main reasons I was drawn to this show. It allowed me to explore a different side of myself and take on a new type of role. Initially, when I saw the character descriptions, I thought I was meant to play Brooke because it felt familiar to roles I've done before. But when I learned it was Amy, I was thrilled.

It was a refreshing experience for me to work on this show because Amy is so open and emotionally raw. This aspect was a bit daunting for me as I had to tap into new emotional depths for this role. However, I enjoy challenges. One of the perks of this job is being able to push yourself and try out different things each time. It's exhilarating to take on roles that push you out of your comfort zone.

I had the space during our shoot in Australia, which was a nice change from being close to home. Being in a different, unfamiliar place allowed me to explore different aspects of myself and really delve into some things. It was a unique experience for me, and I truly enjoyed it.

I understand how Brooke may have seemed like a role that aligns with your previous ones, but I'm happy that they considered you for Amy instead. Just like Essie, you excel in your role and deliver a fantastic performance.

Essie Randles: Some of my friends actually thought I was going to portray Amy when they read the book.

Alison Brie: That's hilarious! They even contacted our agents and were like, "Hold on a minute." [Laughs]

The Family Dynamic Came "Very Naturally" For The Show's Ensemble Cast

The Delaney kids looking worried in Apples Never Fall - The Family Dynamic Came "Very Naturally" For The Show's Ensemble Cast

The bond between all the siblings in the show came naturally to us. Before even meeting in person, we started a group chat on WhatsApp to connect. Jake and I had met briefly before, which helped create a natural connection. This immediate chemistry and comfortability made it easy for us to portray the dynamic between siblings authentically. We also did some character work to further enhance our performances. [Laughs]

Essie Randles: We focused on developing our characters, but spending time together as sisters and with the whole family was just as important. It helped us build a strong family dynamic on screen. We felt comfortable trying new things, being open with each other, and not holding back during our scenes.

Alison Brie: Our bond as a cast grew stronger as we worked together. Despite the dysfunction in the Delaney family, love for each other was always present. I cared deeply for Essie and felt a strong desire to protect her, much like my character Amy. Shooting scenes where the sisters bonded felt authentic because we already had a genuine connection.

Essie Randles: Love you.

Alison Brie: Love you! [Chuckles]

I love that idea, it sounds like a very fulfilling experience. Maybe if you have the opportunity, you could cast her as your sister in the Community movie!

Alison Brie: That's great! Annie has a sister? It's always interesting to learn new things like that!

About Apples Never Fall

The Delaney family posing for a picture in Apples Never Fall - About Apples Never Fall

Based on the bestselling novel by Liane Moriarty, Apples Never Fall focuses on the Delaney family. Stan and Joy, former tennis coaches, are looking forward to enjoying their retirement after selling their tennis academy. Their four adult children are excited for this new chapter in their family's life. However, everything changes when a wounded young woman shows up at their door, bringing unexpected excitement. But when Joy goes missing, the children start to uncover hidden secrets about their parents' supposedly perfect marriage.

Discover more interviews about Apples Never Fall below:

Melanie Marnich

Sam Neill

Jake Lacy & Conor Merrigan Turner

Georgia Flood

APPLES NEVER FALL BEGINS STREAMING ON PEACOCK ON MARCH 14.

Source: Screen Rant Plus

Editor's P/S:

The article provides an intriguing glimpse into the behind-the-scenes dynamics of "Apples Never Fall." The interviews with Alison Brie and Essie Randles reveal their excitement and challenges in portraying the sibling characters, Amy and Brooke. Their genuine connection as castmates is evident, which likely contributed to the authentic family bond depicted on screen. Randles' disbelief upon landing her major role is both endearing and inspiring, showcasing the transformative power of believing in oneself. The article captures the essence of the show's central mystery and family drama, leaving readers eager to delve into the world of the Delaney family.

Overall, the article effectively conveys the actors' enthusiasm for the project and highlights the nuanced performances that bring the characters to life. It also teases the captivating plot of "Apples Never Fall," leaving readers intrigued and eager to witness the unfolding secrets within the Delaney family.