Anuja Joshi – The Resident

By: Kemberlie Spivey

Q) What are some themes viewers can expect to see explored in “The Resident” Season 6?

A) Season 6 will continue to tackle issues in the medical system and also bring to light some of the character’s personal and familial struggles. Family is a big theme in season 6.

Q) We saw in the promo that Leela’s twin Padma seems to have problems with her pregnancy. How does this affect Leela and the entire Resident staff? 

A) Padma (Aneesha Joshi) is one of Chastain’s favorite people at this point. Leela is obviously deeply affected by the complications she has to endure, but what’s heartwarming is the whole team’s dedication to healing her and ensuring the safety of the babies. You’ll get to see a true team effort here.

Q) What can you tease about Devon and Leela’s relationship this season?

A) Devon (Manish Dayal) and Leela will continue to navigate their individually blossoming careers and try to balance their personal expectations of one another. The love between them is clearly strong, but it remains to be seen if it’s enough to keep them together despite all the external forces.

Q) What do you enjoy the most about their relationship? 

A) Devon and Leela are fiercely ambitious and that is one of the best aspects of their relationship. They each understand the other’s need to succeed. It’s wonderful to play a character who has her own goals and dreams. Devon is so supportive of Leela’s drive and that’s awesome to see.

Q) We know Manish Dayal directed an episode last season. Talk about working with him as a costar and as a director.

A) Watching Manish direct is a joy. He’s so confident and clear on his vision for the episode and he is excellent at communicating with his actors. It’s definitely inspiring to watch him act and direct at the same time too! He’s able to switch between roles seamlessly and that’s very impressive to witness.

Q) Going into this season were you hoping to or excited about working with someone(s) in particular?

A) Not anyone in particular, but I was very excited to see my beautiful cast mates again. We have all grown very close and We genuinely enjoy each other’s company. I’m very lucky to be on a show with supportive costars. We are always laughing and that’s a huge plus.

Q) What have been some of your most memorable moments from filming the show?

A) Most of my standout moments involve the amazing guest stars we get to work with. It’s such a privilege to work with so many new people every episode. Especially the guest stars who play patients – it’s not as easy as it looks trust me!

Q) What have you personally taken away so far from our time working on “The Resident?”

A) “The Resident” has taught me so much about the intricacies of the medical system. I love that I am constantly learning new aspects of not just diseases but healthcare in general. It’s eye opening to say the least.

Q) The show has resonated with many people for the past five seasons, what do you think makes it such a fan favorite?

A) I think “The Resident” is a fan favorite because the doctors on our show understand the humanity of their patients. I feel like the fans have a sense of trust in our characters and our stories. I believe that what we set out to tell often resonates with people and for that I am very grateful.

Q) Besides “The Resident,” are there any other projects you are working on?

A) Currently I am full force on “The Resident” S6 and enjoying every minute of it!

Q) What would you like to say to everyone who are fans of the show and supporters of your work? 

A) I am so grateful for your love and support. There isn’t a day I walk on set that I don’t recognize the impact of your viewership and love for the show. I am hoping that you all love what we have in store for you as Season 6 unfolds.