In a show renowned for its devious characters, journalist Roya Hammad holds her own on “Homeland.” She works the political power corridors on behalf of Al Qaeda terrorist Abu Nazir, giving instructions to Sgt. Nicholas Brody. A model of discretion, Roya is played by 35-year-old British actress Zuleikha Robinson, who has had a great season on Showtime’s Sunday night drama.
Q) How were you approached to play Roya?
A) I had to put myself on tape. I wasn’t too thrilled with my performance. I thought I’d lost the role. Then they asked me to come in. My jaw hit the floor, but once I’d auditioned in person I could feel the role.
Q) Which actresses do you run into at auditions?
A) Morena Baccarin [who plays Jessica Brody]. When I got my audition for “Homeland,” she very sweetly called one of the producers and said, ‘My friend’s reading so be nice to her.’
Q) How did Roya become a traitor?
A) I don’t think she woke up one morning and became a traitor. She was identifying with her culture and her family. They’re Palestinian. That’s what drew me to the role. How does someone who’s Oxford-educated go down that road?
Q) Some cast members live in North Carolina while the series is filming. Did you move there as well?
A) I’ve been flying back and forth from LA. It’s a very close cast, though. People cook dinners for each other. David Marciano [who plays Virgil] is a phenomenal chef. Claire [Danes] has cooked. Morena’s cooked. It’s a good way to decompress.
Q) You grew up in the Far East, Thailand and London. How did you find your way to California?
A) I came to LA to go to acting school. I was honestly sick of the dreary, weather in London. Everybody’s miserable on the Tube and they won’t share eye contact.
Q) It seems that Roya’s days are numbered. Do you think she’ll survive the season?
A) [She laughs heartily.] There’s nothing I can say. Nothing at all.