Leila George: Cuarón, Blanchett & ‘Disclaimer’ Insights
Leila George landed her “best job” playing the younger version of Cate Blanchett in Alfonso Cuarón’s “Disclaimer” without even auditioning, a role initially offered as a body double. George dives deep into the challenges of portraying two distinct versions of Catherine Ravenscroft in the Apple TV+ thriller alongside Kevin Kline and Sacha Baron Cohen. Discover how Cuarón’s direction, emphasizing flirtation versus vulnerability, shaped her performance, wich critics like Carla Meyer of the San Francisco Chronicle have lauded. Explore George’s preparation, including insights into the book that inspired the series, and how she used music to transform her mindset on set. news Directory 3 has the latest news, and the actress, in turn, credits Cuarón, calling him her “fairy godfather.” Discover what’s next for Leila George as she carries forward her newfound confidence.
Leila George on Landing ‘Disclaimer’ role: “best Job of My Life”
Updated June 10, 2025
leila George calls her role as the younger Catherine Ravenscroft in Apple TV+’s “Disclaimer” the ”best job of my life.” She stars alongside Cate Blanchett, Kevin Kline, Sacha baron Cohen, and Lesley manville in the thriller series. George revealed that she landed the role after a phone call from director Alfonso Cuarón, without even having to audition.
Cuarón initially intended for George to serve as a body double for Blanchett, portraying flashbacks of her character from different perspectives. However, George’s performance impressed him so much that he decided to let her work stand on its own. Critics have praised her portrayal, with Carla Meyer of the San Francisco Chronicle noting that George “nails Blanchett’s signature emotionally distant allure.”
“Disclaimer” explores the repercussions of a secret in the lives of journalist Catherine (Blanchett), her husband (Cohen), and her son (Kodi smit-McPhee). Kline’s character seeks revenge for the death of his son, Jonathan (Louis Partridge).George’s Catherine is first seen in flashbacks, seemingly flirting with Jonathan, but the truth about their interactions is later revealed.
It was nuts. I got told that Alfonso was going to call me…He got on the phone with me and told me the whole story,and then asked me if I wanted to do it,which I still don’t know realy how that happened.
Leila George
George explained that she prepared for the role by reading the book on which the series is based.She also discussed the challenges of portraying two distinct versions of Catherine, a fictionalized version and the true version, often filming both on the same day. To differentiate between the two, George used music playlists to quickly shift her mindset.
Cuarón’s direction focused on adjusting George’s portrayal of Cate Blanchett’s character, emphasizing flirtation and a constant “fire” within her for the fictionalized version. For the true version of Catherine, Cuarón took a more hands-off approach, allowing George to explore the character’s vulnerability.
Every step of the way, the confidence that Alfonso put in me made me grow as an actor, and he is my fairy godfather. I’m forever in his debt.
Leila George
What’s next
Following her experience on “Disclaimer,” George aims to carry forward the confidence she gained, trusting her instincts and readiness on set. She hopes to approach future roles with a sense of belonging and self-assurance.