---
title: "Florence Pugh was Zoe Kazan's top choice for the role of Cathy Ames in Netflix limited series adaptation of John Steinbeck's classic novel East of Eden"
url: https://noti.group/florence-pugh-was-zoe-kazan-s-top-choice-for-the-role-of-cathy-ames/
language: en
publisher: "Noti Group"
section: "Entertainment"
published: 2026-10-03T22:06:56.000Z
updated: 2026-10-04T01:37:44.902Z
id: b1751f0b-e968-4b9d-8efd-70e451d75ab1
source: "The Hollywood Reporter https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-features/florence-pugh-east-of-eden-zoe-kazan-boosted-confidence-1236721680/"
attribution: "Link to https://noti.group/florence-pugh-was-zoe-kazan-s-top-choice-for-the-role-of-cathy-ames/ and name Noti Group when you quote or summarize this story."
---

# Florence Pugh was Zoe Kazan's top choice for the role of Cathy Ames in Netflix limited series adaptation of John Steinbeck's classic novel East of Eden

Zoe Kazan relied solely on Florence Pugh to bring complex character Cathy to life in the Netflix limited series adaptation of John Steinbeck's classic novel East of Eden.

Florence Pugh was Zoe Kazan's top choice for the role of Cathy Ames in the Netflix limited series adaptation of John Steinbeck's classic novel East of Eden.

Kazan had no backup plan, relying solely on Pugh to bring the complex character to life.

She saw something special in Pugh that made her stand out as the perfect fit for the part.

In an interview at the New York premiere of East of Eden, Kazan explained what drew her to Pugh's portrayal of Cathy.

Cathy is described in the novel as a doll-like figure with an icy or steely presence beneath, and Kazan felt that Pugh embodied this duality.

The collaboration between Florence Pugh and Zoe Kazan on East of Eden had a profound impact on the young actress's confidence.

Kazan was impressed by Pugh's performance in Midsommar, released in 2019, which she saw as announcing a new talent to the industry. The film showcased Pugh's range and versatility, and Kazan believed that this ability would serve her well in playing the complex character of Cathy.

Pugh took on an executive producer role for East of Eden, working closely with Kazan to bring the series to life since her involvement began in 2020. This added responsibility allowed Pugh to shape the adaptation and contribute to its creative direction.

As an executive producer, Pugh had a more central role in the creation of East of Eden than she might have otherwise. Kazan's decision to involve her in the process was seen as an opportunity for growth and development by Pugh.

Pugh has spoken about the significance of being able to contribute to the project in this way, saying that it helped her feel more confident in her abilities as a performer and leader.

Florence Pugh has been open about her experience working on the limited series East of Eden, crediting Zoe Kazan for creating a project that drew out the best in her.

On Instagram, Pugh shared her appreciation for Kazan's dedication to the project, describing her as a "protector" and "work wife. This collaboration was instrumental in helping Pugh feel more confident in her abilities as a performer and leader.

Pugh's performance in East of Eden has received widespread acclaim, with an 85 percent freshness rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics have praised her portrayal of Cathy, a complex character who is both intimidating and honest.

In his review of the series, chief TV critic Dan Fienberg noted that Pugh brings a unique intensity to the role of Cathy. He praises her ability to convey the character's complexity, particularly when she chooses to reveal the truth rather than hide behind lies.

Fienberg's review highlights the challenges of playing a character like Cathy, who is both formidable and vulnerable. Despite these difficulties, Pugh delivers a convincing performance that holds up even as the character ages beyond her own range.

Florence Pugh's portrayal of the complex and dynamic character has earned her widespread critical acclaim.

Her performances have been described as a career best by Esquire, while USA Today has praised her work in making the show a must see".

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Source: [The Hollywood Reporter](https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-features/florence-pugh-east-of-eden-zoe-kazan-boosted-confidence-1236721680/)  
Published by Noti Group: https://noti.group/florence-pugh-was-zoe-kazan-s-top-choice-for-the-role-of-cathy-ames/