Naomi Grossman rose to fame for a single, unforgettable role that required a dramatic transformation. She portrayed a character that captured the attention of millions of viewers. It’s hard to believe that behind the intense makeup and costume was a naturally attractive actress. It goes without saying that actors often need to embrace extreme changes if they want to stay relevant devoted to their career.
However, not every role is easy to embody, especially when the character is far removed from the actor’s own personality. Many hesitate to make such drastic physical changes, but this prominent actress didn’t shy away—she fully committed and delivered a standout performance leaving a lasting impression on everyone. This was quite a challenging role. Naomi played a woman with psychological disorders who had once been treated at Briarcliff Asylum.
Although she appeared harmless at first, her backstory was disturbing—she had drowned her sister’s baby. Her physical appearance was also striking, with features inspired by a real genetic condition. While in the asylum, Pepper behaved quietly and appeared well-adjusted. But in season four, audiences saw a different side of her and learned about her life before the illness took hold.
Interestingly, the character was inspired by a real person—Schlitzie, a sideshow performer who toured with traveling circuses and passed away in the late 20th century. To take on the role, she even shaved her head and spent up to three hours daily in makeup. It was a demanding commitment, but one that showcased her dedication and talent.
Have you watched the movie? Share your opinion about the character in this article!
