Fresh off her Juilliard graduation, Laëtitia Hollard is making a powerful impression in The Pitt Season 2 as Emma Nolan, a young nurse navigating the intensity, chaos, and emotional weight of her very first day on the job.
Laëtitia joined Pop Culture Unplugged w/ Elias to talk about landing the role, stepping into a celebrated ensemble, and building a character whose quiet strength has quickly resonated with fans.
From Juilliard Showcase to The Pitt
Laëtitia revealed that her journey to The Pitt began at a Juilliard showcase in Los Angeles, where casting took notice of her performance. Shortly after, she was reading for Emma Nolan — even before fully knowing the show.
“I read for Emma not really knowing the show yet. Then I watched it, became an instant fan, and suddenly I was doing callbacks on Zoom. It all happened so fast.”
Joining the series before its Emmy recognition also helped ease the pressure.
“If I had joined after the Emmys, I would’ve been terrified to even step into the audition room.”
Building Emma Nolan: Midwest Roots and Quiet Strength
Emma Nolan is introduced as a 21-year-old nurse from the Upper Midwest — a detail Laëtitia connected to deeply through her own upbringing.
“I realized I am Midwest. I know that culture. And it felt exciting to bring representation to that space as a mixed girl from the North.”
She approached Emma as someone young, capable, and still finding her footing in an overwhelming environment.
“She’s smart and hardworking, but she’s in a tricky situation. I wanted to show her strength even when she feels unsure.”
Researching Nursing in the Gen-Z Way
To prepare for the role, Laëtitia leaned on real-life nursing students — and TikTok.
“My friends started nursing the same week I started shooting, so I texted them every day. And I’m also deep into nurse TikTok — that was my Gen Z research.”
That real-world insight helped ground Emma’s reactions and nervous energy, especially during her first moments inside The Pitt.
Emma’s First Day Mirrors Laëtitia’s First Day on Set
One of the most authentic elements of Emma’s performance came from Laëtitia’s own experience.
“Emma’s nerves were also my nerves. It was my first day on set, and I was overwhelmed — and then I realized I could use that feeling.”
The medical bootcamp, adrenaline, and pressure blended seamlessly into Emma’s on-screen journey.
The Emma and Dana Bond
A fan-favorite dynamic this season is Emma’s bond with Dana, who takes her under her wing.
“Dana is so strong, but with Emma she’s soft, caring, and protective. Emma really gets to see what kind of nurse — and woman — she can become.”
Laëtitia loved how the relationship evolves beyond mentorship.
“Emma actually ends up teaching Dana a few things too. That generational exchange felt really honest.”
That Maggots Scene…
Yes — they talked about it.
“I’m not afraid of bugs, but seeing maggots go straight into a wound? That was… a lot.”
The scene turned out to be one of the most unforgettable moments of the season for both the audience and the cast.
Emma’s Season 2 Arc
Laëtitia summed up Emma’s journey simply and powerfully:
“It starts with ‘I’ve got this,’ then ‘I know nothing,’ and finally realizing, ‘I actually am just as qualified as everyone else.’”
By the end of the season, Emma may still be new — but she’s no longer unsure of her place.
Looking Ahead
When asked what she hopes audiences take away from Emma Nolan, Laëtitia didn’t hesitate.
“Don’t judge a book by its cover. Joyful people can also be strong, hurt, and powerful.”
And as for the future?
“There’s so much more of Emma’s backstory to explore. I’d love to see her step into a trauma room with confidence.”
The Pitt Season 2 continues to deepen its characters and emotional stakes, and Emma Nolan’s journey is a standout addition. With honesty, warmth, and strength, Laëtitia Hollard has made Emma someone fans are eager to follow — wherever the next shift takes her.