Odessa A’zion’s Audition Journey
Several years back, Odessa A’zion had a standout audition for HBO’s Euphoria. She performed in front of casting director Jennifer Venditti, renowned for her talent-scouting skills that led to the discovery of stars like Sydney Sweeney and Jacob Elordi. At that time, A’zion was a teenager and received a callback, ultimately meeting with creator Sam Levinson.
Canceled Opportunities
“He invited me to participate in table reads with the entire cast, which signaled to me that he was quite serious,” she reflects. However, the COVID pandemic brought production to a sudden stop, and she never heard back from the Euphoria team, with the role going to another actress whom she prefers not to name. A’zion admits her disappointment, explaining, “I think it’s my fault for not following up or inquiring further.”
A Second Chance
Four years later, A’zion’s fate in Hollywood took another turn when Venditti re-entered her life. Josh Safdie was in the process of casting Marty Supreme, his first solo project after parting ways with his brother Benny, who co-directed Uncut Gems. Safdie sought an actress who could play opposite Timothée Chalamet while embodying a sense of mischief and yearning. Recommendations from Levinson and Venditti led him to A’zion.
Breakthrough Role
After several auditions, she received an exciting FaceTime call from Safdie. “He said, ‘Odessa, this is where we’re shooting the end of the movie,’” she recalls. “I assumed this meant I got the role, but I didn’t dare to ask.” Just weeks later, A’zion found herself immersed in the production of Marty Supreme, which has since become A24’s top-grossing film in North America at $81 million and counting.
New Projects and Achievements
In early 2026, A’zion reflects on her rapid ascent in an L.A. café, noting how the film garnered nine Oscar nominations, including Best Picture. Moreover, she’s become a key player in HBO’s lineup with I Love LA, where she portrays Tallulah, a TikToker aiming for lasting fame. The show has already been renewed for a second season, and discussions around it have piqued audiences just like its predecessor, Girls.
Facing Challenges
Despite her newfound success, A’zion feels unprepared for the public’s attention. Juggling intense press tours and industry events, she admits, “I’m not used to so many eyes on me.” Additionally, A’zion recently faced criticism over her casting in Deep Cuts, prompting her to step back from the role. She expressed her regrets and emphasized the importance of representation.
Future Aspirations
Living in Mid-City, Los Angeles, with a few roommates, A’zion maintains a laid-back, pet-filled environment. As she contemplates her next steps, she reflects on her career so far: “After Marty Supreme, it’s hard to think of what comes next since it was my ultimate goal. I just hope to keep playing intense, complex characters.” A’zion is currently working on new projects and preparing to release music that she has been crafting for years.
