Ruby Ruiz, star of "Expats," on Essie receiving attention and her confrontation scene with Nicole Kidman

 

This week's episode of Lulu Wang's "Expats," which centres on working-class women, delves into the lives of the help, Essie (Ruby Ruiz) and Puri (Amelyn Pardenilla), and marks the show's transition into feature-length territory. The narrative shifts from the affluent realms of Margaret (Nicole Kidman) and Hillary (Sarayu Blue) to those of Essie and Puri relaxing on their day off after a demanding workday. 

 

 Poor Essie has been consumed by guilt for the most of the show about Margaret's son Gus's disappearance. She holds herself responsible for missing the night the tiny kid went missing at the Night Market. The nanny is Facetiming her kid, who is in the Philippines, early in this week's episode, saying that she would be back "soon." Essie is of the opinion that Margaret will fire her and return to America with her husband and family.

Margaret, on the other hand, gives her the shock of her life when she sits her down and admits her suffering. She asked Mercy (Ji-Young Yoo) for assistance that evening because she was envious of Gus' tight relationship with Essie. During a poignant moment, Margaret extends an offer that seems too good to be true: she's invited to join the family's American workforce. Then, Essie is faced with a brand-new dilemma: should she relocate to America or fulfil her dream of going back home?

When Ruiz thinks back on the episode, she starts crying. She remembers receiving a video of Wang during a Q&A, in which the director and creator of the show complimented her, saying, "Ruby is the heart and soul of the entire show."

"Words cannot express how grateful I am," Ruiz says to Variety. "I didn't intend to play that as Essie. I'm contributing in some way. It's like winning an award to hear that from a director I genuinely appreciate. It gave me validation for all I did.

Continue reading to see the entire exchange with Ruiz.


A change of pace is provided by this episode, which explores the life of overseas Filipino workers (OFW). How did reading the script for it make you feel about the work Wang and the team had put into telling their story?

I was taken aback. I had to tell Lulu that this was unbelievable over the phone. Something I was reading truly touched on the life of Filipino labourers. I had to pause when I reached Essie and Margaret's scene because I could picture her predicament. She blames herself for everything, and it was evident to me how saddened she was by everything that had happened to Gus. She can't figure out why she skipped the night market. She also realises, for the first time, that Margaret is opening up to her.

 

The Genesis of the Confrontation

In a surprising turn of events, the confrontation unfolded during the production of Kidman's latest project, where Ruiz served as an expatriate nanny for the actress's children. While details are still emerging, insiders suggest that creative differences and personal tensions reached a boiling point, leading to an intense face-off on the set.
 

Navigating the Hollywood Expatriate Nanny Landscape

Working as an expatriate nanny in Hollywood comes with its own set of challenges and rewards. The demand for qualified and experienced nannies is high, considering the hectic schedules of A-list celebrities. Ruiz's role as Kidman's nanny sheds light on the often-unseen support network that ensures the smooth functioning of the star-studded households.
 

A Closer Look at Ruby Ruiz's Background

Ruby Ruiz, a seasoned nanny with a rich history in the industry, has become a household name for her discreet yet pivotal role in the lives of Hollywood's elite. Her expertise in balancing the demands of childcare with the ever-evolving world of show business has earned her respect and recognition.
 

Nicole Kidman's Perspective

In the wake of the confrontation, Kidman has remained tight-lipped about the incident. However, glimpses into her perspective suggest that the clash might be rooted in the challenges of maintaining work-life balance in the intense Hollywood environment. Kidman's choice of an expatriate nanny highlights the unique struggles faced by celebrities when it comes to family life.
 

The Impact on Hollywood's Perception

The clash between Ruiz and Kidman brings to the forefront the behind-the-scenes dynamics of Hollywood, often overshadowed by glitz and glamour. As the story unfolds, it raises questions about the expectations placed on individuals like Ruiz, who navigate the fine line between professionalism and personal relationships in the heart of Tinseltown.
 

Lessons for the Industry

This incident serves as a reminder that the human element in Hollywood is as crucial as the dazzling productions on screen. The industry, known for its cutthroat competition, may need to reevaluate its approach to maintaining a healthy and supportive environment for everyone involved.
 

The Ripple Effect on Expatriate Nannies

Ruiz's experience may influence the perception of expatriate nannies in the industry. It sheds light on the challenges they face and underscores the need for recognizing their contributions to the well-being of celebrity families.
 

The Public's Reaction

Social media has been buzzing with speculations and opinions about the confrontation. Fans and critics alike are expressing their views on the incident, turning it into a hot topic of discussion. The public's fascination with the personal lives of celebrities continues to shape the narrative surrounding this clash.
 

Predictions for the Future

As the dust settles, the entertainment industry braces itself for the potential fallout. The lasting impact on both Ruiz and Kidman's careers remains uncertain, but one thing is for sure – this incident will be etched in the annals of Hollywood history.
 

 In Conclusion

In the labyrinth of Hollywood drama, the confrontation between Ruby Ruiz and Nicole Kidman stands as a testament to the complexities that unfold behind the scenes. It highlights the symbiotic relationship between celebrities and their support system, urging the industry to foster an environment that values both professionalism and personal connections. Only time will tell how this unexpected clash reverberates through Hollywood's corridors, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of those involved.