Imogen Reid encourages patience in judging her character

Imogen Faith Reid has landed her first major acting role as Natalia Grace in the Hulu series "Good American Family." The 27-year-old British actress was surprised to be cast as the controversial Ukrainian adoptee, whose story has captivated many across the country. Before taking on the role, Reid researched Grace's background and found it fascinating. Grace's story gained attention when her adoptive parents, Michael and Kristine Barnett, faced serious allegations related to neglect. In 2019, they were charged with multiple counts, although Michael was later found not guilty, and Kristine's charges were dismissed. Reid's character is based on real events and explores the perspectives of both Grace and the Barnetts. The series is a mix of fact and fiction, encouraging viewers to see the complexities of their stories. Reid described the show as a roller coaster ride with many viewpoints. Despite being new to the industry, Reid impressed the show's creator, Katie Robbins, during auditions. Reid worked hard to prepare, doing nearly 400 takes for her audition tape. Robbins praised her emotional depth and ability to portray the character's various stages of life. Reid identifies as a little person, which helps her connect with Grace's experiences. She trained with a dialect coach to accurately portray Grace while also ensuring the performance felt authentic to her own understanding of life. Her co-stars, including Christina Hendricks and Mark Duplass, have commended Reid for her talent and dedication. They noted her ability to embody the character's struggles while maintaining a sense of warmth and vulnerability. Although Reid did not meet Grace before filming, she aimed to bring light and empowerment to the role. She hopes the series will teach viewers not to judge others too quickly and appreciate different perspectives. Reid expressed excitement about the opportunities that "Good American Family" may bring her in the future. She feels honored to be part of the entertainment industry and is proud of her work. Her co-stars believe she has a bright future ahead.