Haley Lu Richardson and Emilia Clarke Shine in Gorgeous New Cosmopolitan Feature
In a new interview with Cosmopolitan, Emilia Clarke and Haley Lu Richardson opened up about their roles in the Peacock spy thriller PONIES. The show takes place in 1977 Budapest and follows two CIA secretaries, Beatrice “Bea” Grant and Twila Hasbeck, who are suddenly thrust into field work after their husbands are killed. Labeled “Persons of No Interest” or PONIs by the men around them, the two women use their perceived anonymity to navigate dangerous Cold War missions.
Haley Lu Richardson stuns for Cosmopolitan
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Clarke and Richardson spoke about the strong bond between their characters. While Bea is “book smart” and refined, Twila is a “street smart” loose cannon, they share a drive for independence. They discussed a key moment in episode 6 where the two argue, with Clarke explaining that the conflict allows Bea to express anger and Richardson noting that it gives Twila a chance to learn to apologize sincerely. “It was a pivotal moment for both of them,” Richardson said.
The actresses also highlighted how PONIES handles espionage and romance differently from traditional spy stories. Richardson shared a moment from filming where her character realizes her feelings for a Russian woman are “very real.” Clarke added that Bea finds unexpected empowerment through her interactions with a KGB mark.
Haley Lu Richardson and Emilia Clarke stun for Cosmopolitan
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Neither Clarke nor Richardson were Cold War experts before joining the show, but they found the era’s tense atmosphere fascinating. Clarke is also producing the series, while Richardson recently published a book of poetry. The actresses shared their personal spy-genre favorites as well. Clarke cited Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, and Richardson joked that she enjoys The Pink Panther.
The series blends suspense with emotional growth, focusing on the evolution of Bea and Twila’s friendship instead of relying only on action and gadgets. The dynamic between the “book smart” Bea and “street smart” Twila allows for powerful character development and keeps the story grounded in personal connection.
I think the show’s focus on female friendship is refreshing for the spy genre. Bea and Twila’s relationship adds depth that makes the missions feel more meaningful. Which character do you relate to more, the academic Bea or the rebellious Twila? Share your thoughts in the comments.