Nadia Al Saidi – Elite

By starrymag | September 5, 2024

By: Lisa Steinberg

 

 

Q) Where do we pick up in season 8 of “Elite” with your character Sonia?

A) In Season 8, Sonia is dealing with very intense and complicated situations. She’s always been someone who helps others and this time she’s trying to protect her boyfriend, Dalmar (Iván Mendes), who is in a difficult situation because he doesn’t have papers and is being threatened. Sonia is caught between wanting to help and the difficult emotions that come with the lies and betrayals around her.

Q) What are some of the themes and driving points we will get to see this season for Sonia and as a whole for Las Encinas?

A) For Sonia, the main themes this season are loyalty, guilt and the consequences of her actions. She’s always been someone who cares about others, but this time it gets her into tricky situations, especially with Dalmar and Chloe (Mireia Balic). Las Encinas is also a place where power and secrets can destroy lives, and we see how this affects everyone this season.

Q) What has resonated with you about your character Sonia over these past seasons?

A) What I love about Sonia is her kindness and how she always wants to help others, even when it’s hard for her. Over the seasons I’ve admired how she stays true to herself, despite all the challenges she faces. Her journey shows how strong you have to be to stay kind in a world that’s often unkind.

Q) What did you think when you began reading through the season scripts and saw the overall journey for her?

A) When I read the scripts, I was both excited and sad for Sonia. Her journey this season is very emotional, especially with everything that happens between her, Dalmar and Chloe. I was looking forward to exploring those deep emotions and how she tries to deal with them.

Q) Sonia and Nico have always had a palpable relationship. What can we expect or can you tease about their status this season?

A) This season, Sonia is mostly focused on her relationship with Dalmar. Things with Nico (Ander Puig) have changed and the emotions with Dalmar are more intense. Their relationship is tested in many ways and Sonia has to deal with a lot of guilt and betrayal.

Q) What do the new rule breakers and setters mean when it comes to the power struggles/dynamics within the school?

A) The new rule breakers and setters bring even more chaos to Las Encinas. The power struggles are stronger than ever and alliances change quickly. For Sonia, this means navigating a very dangerous environment while trying to protect Dalmar and find out the truth about Joel’s (Fernando Líndez)

Q) Are there any specific episodes that you are looking forward to fans’ reactions?

A) In episode 4 Sonia’s world falls apart because of her best friend’s betrayals. It’s a big moment for her character and the emotions are very raw. I think fans will be shocked by the twists and how far some characters go to protect themselves.

Q) What are some of your favorite moments from filming either behind the scenes or from the past few seasons?

A) One of my favorite moments was filming the scenes where Sonia and Omar (Omar Ayuso) work together to investigate Joel’s murder. Their dynamic is very interesting and those scenes were both challenging and rewarding. Behind the scenes, I loved the friendship with the cast, especially during such a dramatic season.

Q) This series has pushed a lot of boundaries provocatively and has been one of the most talked about Netflix shows. What do you think has been about the series that has continued to captivate fans and keep Elite intriguing for so many seasons?

A) “Elite” is bold in how it talks about controversial and provocative topics, which keeps it fresh and interesting. The characters are complex, with their own secrets and motivations, which keeps viewers engaged. The show mixes intense drama with real social issues, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking.

Q) What has being a part of such a special series meant to you?

A) Being part of “Elite” has been an amazing experience. It’s been a privilege to play Sonia and to be part of a show that resonates with so many people. The show has challenged me as an actress and allowed me to explore deep emotions. I’m very grateful for this journey.

Q) Are there any cast from previous seasons you wish could have made a cameo or you would have loved to share a scene with?

A) I would have loved to share a scene with Rebeca (Claudia Salas). Her character was so strong and interesting, and I think Sonia and Rebeca could have had a very powerful dynamic, especially with everything happening at Las Encinas. It would have been great to see how they would interact and possibly support each other through the chaos.

Q) What was your reaction to the final script and where we leave off with the characters and the school?

A) Reading the final script was emotional, but also kind of funny. The way the series ends is both satisfying and unexpected. Sonia and some other characters leave Las Encinas and end up in a public school. The moment they walk in everyone stares at them like they’re from another planet. It’s a mix of humor and reality. It’s a perfect way to show how much their world has changed and it adds a lighter note to what has been a very intense journey.

Q) What do you hope lingers with fans after the series finale of “Elite?” What do you think will be the imprint that the series itself leaves?

A) I hope fans remember the importance of empathy and the complexity of human relationships, which have been central themes throughout the series. “Elite” has always shown that people are not just good or bad, but something in between. I think the series will leave a lasting impact as a bold exploration of youth, privilege and the dark sides of both.