Netflix’s new drama Ripple has quickly become one of the streamer’s most heartfelt surprises — a series about connection, timing, loss, love, and the unexpected ways lives intersect. At the center of it all is Ian Harding, who plays Nate, a man navigating illness, ambition, friendship, and the rediscovery of what truly matters.
I sat down with Ian for an in-depth conversation about crafting Nate, working with an incredible ensemble cast, and why Ripple may be one of the most meaningful projects of his career.
Finding Nate: “I instantly understood this person.”
Harding recalls receiving the Ripple script and feeling an immediate pull toward Nate.
“I read it and I just instantly understood this person… even though I myself have not fought cancer or gone through divorce,” he said.
“I inherently knew him.”
Unlike many auditions, Ian wanted to fight for this role. He didn’t want an offer — he wanted the chance to prove he was Nate.
“I will audition for this. Do you want me to fly to LA? New York? I’ll do it.”
His instinct paid off. Nate’s blend of humor, humility, ambition, and quiet pain resonated with him in a way that felt uncannily natural.
The Heart of Ripple: Human Connection in a Tense World
Harding describes Ripple as a show built on community — not just on screen, but behind the scenes.
“Everybody was in it for the moment and for the story,” he shared.
“It captures those moments in life that feel magical when you zoom out.”
The series tackles heavy themes — cancer, grief, lost dreams, fractured relationships — but with warmth and authenticity. Ian compares its emotional tone to shows like This Is Us and A Million Little Things.
Nate & Chris: A Partnership Built on Real-Life Strength
One of the standout relationships in the show is between Nate and Chris, played by Julia Chan. Their onscreen chemistry was rooted in real-life overlap and an unexpected connection.
Harding revealed that he and Julia shared many mutual friends — including Lucy Hale, his longtime Pretty Little Liars co-star — but had never met.
“When I saw she got Chris, I couldn’t see anyone else.”
Their bond deepened when Julia bravely shared her own recent battle with cancer.
“There was no acting really. We were saying words, but the connection was instant.”
Sydney Agudong’s Breakout Performance
Ian lights up when talking about co-star Sydney Agudong, calling her “incredibly talented” and “humble.”
“She wasn’t playing up her last job. And meanwhile I’m like… you were just in Lilo & Stitch! She’s got something.”
He believes audiences will be blown away by the depth she brings to the series.
Working With a Legend: Frankie Faison
One of Ian’s favorite parts of the job was working with veteran actor Frankie Faison.
“People don’t understand how much of a legend he is.”
Ian recalls hearing stories about The Wire, Silence of the Lambs, and even Frankie’s collaborations with playwright August Wilson.
“He would just drop these nuggets of wisdom… and then immediately crack a joke. He’s one of a kind.”
Their friendship continues off-screen — Ian mentioned he had spoken to Frankie just an hour before our interview.
Season 2? “There are rumblings.”
Fans who binge-watched Ripple are already asking one question: Will there be a Season 2?
Ian says the early signs are hopeful.
“There are nice rumblings. Things feel tilted in that direction.”
But he also stresses the importance of viewer numbers, especially early on.
What He Wants for Nate’s Future
Harding teased that Season 2 — if greenlit — could explore Nate stepping into a “new life phase,” one shaped by what he’s overcome.
“One hurdle is overcome… and now who is he? I think we’re going to ratchet things up.”
He hints at emotional and personal growth, suggesting bigger storytelling swings next time around.
Where Nate Ranks in His Career
Happy, emotional, and deeply connected to the show, Ian admits Nate is one of the most meaningful roles he’s ever played.
“This show was kind of magic… I made some of the deepest friends I’ve ever made.”
He also revealed that emotional scenes came unexpectedly easy:
“I’ve always struggled with crying in scenes… and suddenly it just came out. Snot, tears, everything.”
For Ian Harding, Ripple has become more than just another show — it’s an experience that changed him.
What’s Next for Ian Harding
Ian kept details vague, but hinted at a new project happening “in a few days” with a longtime friend.
“I look forward to coming back on and talking about it.”
We’ll hold him to that.
Final Thoughts
Ian Harding’s portrayal of Nate in Ripple is heartfelt, grounded, and deeply human — a performance that resonates long after the credits roll. His connection to the character, the cast, and the spirit of the show makes this interview an essential look into why Ripple is touching so many viewers.
If you haven’t watched Ripple on Netflix yet, now is the time — and keep your fingers crossed for Season 2.