“One of the most brilliant comedians”: Stephanie Beatriz’s Nervousness for Her Brooklyn Nine-Nine Audition Shot Through the Roof When an Unexpected Person Showed Up

Stephanie Beatriz, known for playing the tough detective Rosa Diaz on Brooklyn Nine-Nine, didn’t get the part for another role in the series. She recently shared that her nerves were on edge during the audition, especially when a certain comedy genius walked in.

Beatriz first auditioned for Amy Santiago, a role that Melissa Fumero ended up playing. However, the casting director saw something different in her and asked her to come back to audition for another part, which eventually became Rosa Diaz.

Stephanie Beatriz Got Nervous Around Andy Samberg on Set

As the audition moved forward, Stephanie Beatriz got a screen test for both roles. She felt good about her performance as Amy, but things changed dramatically when she learned who her co-star would be.

“They told me, ‘by the way you are gonna be improvising with Andy Samberg. And he’s here,’” Beatriz remembered in an interview with Build Series. For the actress, who was a huge fan of the Lonely Island, this was like a dream come true, but also a nightmare. She admitted to being nervous, saying:

I’m like a fan from Lonely Island like I really love them. I think he’s one of the most brilliant comedians. I think he was like born to make everyone laugh. I think that’s the thing that he’s supposed to do on earth. So, I don’t think that’s screen test went very well. I was very nervous.

The pressure of performing in front of her idol sent her nerves through the roof—which is understandable! Even the biggest stars have their own struggles and moments of doubt. Though the 43-year-old was nervous at first, her talent stood out. The Twisted Metal star’s performance as Rosa, the tough and mysterious detective, impressed both the casting directors and viewers. The character quickly became a fan favorite for her sharp humor and quick wit.

Stephanie Beatriz’s Friendship with Melissa Fumero is More Than Just the Show

Stephanie Beatriz shared in the same interview that she didn’t think it was possible for two Latina actresses to be in the same show. The star was excited when she heard Melissa Fumero was cast before her, but wasn’t sure if she’d get a part too. But Beatriz’s doubts were soon overturned when she landed the role of Megan/Rosa. The show’s focus on breaking stereotypes and celebrating diversity played a big part in its success.

In May, Beatriz and Fumero teamed up again for their new podcast, More Better, which is part of iHeartMedia’s My Cultura Podcast Network. On the show, they promise to bring honest and funny takes on everyday struggles. The podcast explores everything from finding yourself to making and keeping friends as an adult. More Better is available on all major podcast platforms.

Watch Brooklyn Nine-Nine on Netflix!