Ryan Michelle Bathé Guides ‘Paradise’ Viewers Through Season 2’s Biggest Moments
In Season 2 of the acclaimed Hulu series Paradise, Ryan Michelle Bathé steps into the role of Stacy, a CIA mentor whose influence shapes one of the show’s most complex […] The post Ryan Michelle Bathé Guides ‘Paradise’ Viewers Through Season 2’s Biggest Moments appeared first on Essence.
Black News 
Courtesy of Disney 
By Okla Jones ·Updated March 23, 2026 < /> Getting your Trinity Audio player ready… In Season 2 of the acclaimed Hulu series Paradise, Ryan Michelle Bathé steps into the role of Stacy, a CIA mentor whose influence shapes one of the show’s most complex characters. At the same time, she serves as host of the official companion podcast, guiding conversations that help audiences unpack the show’s most intense moments.
Bathé’s character appears in flashbacks tied to Jane’s early training. Stacy is tasked with helping her manage a mind that does not always cooperate, introducing techniques meant to bring focus and control. Their relationship begins with trust and mentorship, but it becomes complicated as the story reveals just how far Jane is willing to go. Off screen, her role expands through the Paradise podcast, where she sits down with the people behind the series.
“I just felt like I was in a masterclass half the time,” Bathé said. “Talking to Dan [Fogelman], I’m talking to somebody who’s so, so, so smart and so good at their job.” Those conversations extend beyond the creative team, bringing in voices who study the kinds of scenarios the show imagines. “Everybody was just incredibly humble,” she added. “I just think that’s the wonderful thing about, dare I say, genius, is when it’s paired with humility, it’s quite a wonderful thing to be in the presence of.”
The podcast itself offers something the episodes alone cannot. Paradise asks a lot from its viewers, often pushing them into emotional territory that can feel overwhelming. Bathé sees the companion series as a place to work through that. “Your emotions are all over the place. Your heart is wrenched, your gut is wrenched, your mind is blown,” she said. The sense of community is central to what she hopes listeners gain. “There is a place for you,” she explained. “You’re not just alone in your emotions and your feelings.”
With episode 6, viewers were able to see Bathé in real time, which carried a personal dimension. She has long-standing ties to members of the Paradise crew, many of whom she worked with previously. Walking back into that environment felt familiar in the best way. “It was amazing to be back on the set because much of the crew is from podcast debuting the same day on YouTube. The season 2 finale is set for March 30.
TOPICS: disney hulu paradise Ryan Michelle Bathe Sterling K. BrownThe post Ryan Michelle Bathé Guides ‘Paradise’ Viewers Through Season 2’s Biggest Moments appeared first on Essence.
