Mia Goth: “Physically Sick” Before Secret Meeting With Christopher Nolan for The Odyssey

Key Points

• Mia Goth says she was overwhelmed with nerves before meeting Christopher Nolan for a role in The Odyssey.
• The 2023 audition at Universal Studios involved a “dummy script” and strict secrecy.
• Goth only learned she would play Melantho after accepting the role.
• Nolan’s mythological epic features a star‑studded cast including Anne Hathaway, Matt Damon, Zendaya, and Robert Pattinson.
• The Odyssey is set for release on July 17, 2026, and is one of Nolan’s most ambitious projects to date.

Mia Goth Opens Up About Nerve‑Racking Audition for Christopher Nolan

Mia Goth is joining the cast of one of Hollywood’s most anticipated films — but the road to landing her role in Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey was far from smooth. In a recent appearance on the Happy Sad Confused podcast, the actress revealed she felt “physically sick” from nerves before meeting the acclaimed director.

The meeting took place in 2023 at Universal Studios, and Goth admitted the anxiety was unlike anything she had experienced before. Her story underscores the intense pressure actors often feel when auditioning for top‑tier filmmakers.

Inside Nolan’s Ultra‑Secretive Casting Process

Goth described driving to Universal for the audition while battling overwhelming nerves. She tried to reframe the moment as a privilege — then walked in and delivered her performance.

Shortly afterward, she learned she had secured the part.

As is typical for Nolan productions, the process was wrapped in secrecy. Goth was given a “dummy script” and had no idea which character she was reading for. She was required to formally accept the job before being allowed to see the real screenplay.

Only then did she discover she would be playing Melantho, a disloyal maid from Homer’s epic poem.

A Massive Mythological Epic With a Star‑Studded Cast

The Odyssey marks a major creative shift for Nolan, who is known for sci‑fi, thrillers, and grounded historical dramas. This time, he is adapting Homer’s legendary tale of King Odysseus and his perilous journey home.

The cast is stacked with A‑list talent, including:

• Anne Hathaway
• Matt Damon
• Tom Holland
• Zendaya
• Robert Pattinson

Industry reports describe the production as one of Nolan’s most ambitious undertakings yet.

The film is slated for release on July 17, 2026, and expectations are already sky‑high.

What Happens Next?

With filming underway and anticipation building, Goth’s candid story about her nerve‑wracking audition adds a human touch to the film’s growing mythology. As The Odyssey moves toward its 2026 premiere, her performance as Melantho will be one of many elements fans eagerly await.