In Apple TV+'s Star City, the relationship between Anastasia Belikova (Alice Englert) and Sasha Polivanov (Solly McLeod) takes a surprising turn in Episode 5. What begins as a politically orchestrated arrangement blossoms into something neither character—nor viewers—saw coming. The actors recently sat down to discuss the emotional depth behind this unexpected bond and how it reshapes the series.
Anastasia, the first Russian woman to land on the Moon, is initially presented as a public-facing symbol for the Soviet space program. But as the series unfolds, she discovers that her role is more about propaganda than exploration. Forced into an arranged marriage with fellow cosmonaut Sasha, she grapples with the realization that her dreams of returning to space may never come true. Sasha, meanwhile, is entangled in a secret affair with Tanya Mironova (Ruby Ashbourne Serkis), adding layers of complexity to his character.
The Surprising Chemistry Between Anastasia and Sasha
Englert and McLeod reveal that the chemistry between their characters was not immediately obvious. "I didn't see it coming until I read it," Englert admits. McLeod adds, "You don't see it coming until it's there, and then you go, 'Oh, shit!' But then you think back, and you go, 'But it makes sense.'" The actors attribute the connection to their characters' shared inability to deceive each other. "They're both pretending to be someone they're not," Englert explains. "Once they're in that forced, close proximity, they realize they can't really bullshit each other."
This forced honesty creates a unique trust. "They're not a fantasy for each other. They're a nightmare for each other," Englert jokes, referencing how their flaws and vulnerabilities become the foundation of their bond. McLeod agrees, noting that Sasha's morally questionable decisions stem from insecurity and pressure. "I justified it as a way to cope with the stress and the oppression," he says of his character's actions.
Behind the Scenes: Filming Zero-Gravity and Emotional Depth
The physical demands of the role were intense, particularly for the zero-gravity sequences. Englert describes the experience as "full on," requiring core strength and muscles she didn't know existed. Despite the sweat and heat, she found joy in pretending to be in space. "I have had a crush on space for a long time," she says. McLeod adds that the entire cast was "absolutely wrecked" after filming those scenes.
The actors also discuss the backstory of Sasha's affair with Tanya. McLeod reveals that he and Serkis, along with the show's creators, decided the affair had been going on for about a year. "I justified it as a way to cope with the stress," he says, emphasizing the moral ambiguity of his character. Englert admits she sometimes forgets how close Sasha is with his best friend Valya, adding another layer to the tangled relationships.
What's Next for Anastasia and Sasha?
As Star City continues to explore the personal and political pressures of the Soviet space program, Anastasia and Sasha's relationship remains a focal point. Their journey from strangers to reluctant partners to something more mirrors the show's themes of identity, ambition, and survival. For fans of the series, Episode 5 marks a turning point that redefines both characters.
For more on the series, check out our coverage of Beth and Beulah's Surprising Bond and Off Campus Stars Mika Abdalla and Josh Heuston.
