Zoe Kazan Explains Her 'East of Eden' Choices, Pugh Was Her Sole Pick
Zoe Kazan is putting a new spin on John Steinbeck's classic 'East of Eden' for Netflix. According to Variety, her adaptation shifts the focus from the novel's male characters to the complicated figure of Cathy Ames, played by Florence Pugh.
Kazan told Variety that Cathy, traditionally seen as a villain, is reframed in the series. She described the character as both a 'murderer' and a 'survivor,' with her actions deeply affecting the Trask family across generations.
The showrunner also said she fought to expand the role of Lee, the family's cook, as a central figure. To make room, other characters like Charles Trask and Samuel Hamilton have smaller parts compared to the book.
Per The Hollywood Reporter, Kazan had only one actress in mind for Cathy. She immediately wanted Florence Pugh for the part and had no alternative candidate.
Pugh, who is also an executive producer on the series, told THR that the collaboration with Kazan significantly boosted her confidence. She said Kazan involved her deeply in the creative process from the beginning.
