Michelle Yeoh’s unexpected request for her new sci-fi role in ‘Blade Runner 2099’: ‘I don’t want to be human’

In an unexpected turn of events, Malaysian actress Michelle Yeoh has stated that she refused to portray a human character in the upcoming sci-fi series Blade Runner 2099. The Oscar-winning star expressed her commitment to the nature of her character, declaring, “I don’t want to be human.” Yeoh was lured to the project by a love letter from its creator, Silka Luisa.

Olwen, the synthetic being Yeoh portrays in the series, is described as a terrifying replicant with a cold, commanding gaze. She went on to describe Olwen as being fluid, comparing her appearance to that of a dragon or serpent.

Set 50 years after the final Blade Runner film, Blade Runner 2099 takes place in a world where replicants rule and humans have become an underclass. Yeoh’s role demanded deep consideration of the nature of synthetic beings, as they possess no childhood, resulting in a lack of understanding of private space. “They’re in your face and if they want something, they take it,” Yeoh explained.

To add to the gravity of her role, Yeoh had to project a commanding presence, making her appear taller than her co-star Hunter Schafer. Blade Runner 2099 is set to premiere on Prime Video on November 25.