Olivia Munn Almost Quit Acting Before Her Latest Role

Actress Olivia Munn recently revealed that she nearly left her acting career behind before taking a role in the Apple TV+ series Your Friends and Neighbors. In a candid interview, she explained how personal struggles made her rethink her professional path. According to Deadline, Munn said the period before joining the show was extremely tough. The COVID-19 pandemic, becoming a new mom, and dealing with postpartum anxiety deeply affected her. These challenges made her feel disconnected from acting.

She Considered Working Behind the Scenes

During that difficult time, Munn began to lose passion for being in front of the camera. She even thought about switching to a different role in the industry. “I called my agents and my manager and said, ‘I’m done being in front of the camera, don’t put me up for anything,'” Munn recalled, as quoted by Deadline.

Offer From Apple TV+ Changed Her Mind

Her plans changed when she received an offer to play Samantha in Your Friends and Neighbors. The dark comedy, created by Jonathan Tropper, gave her a reason to return. The show, which already has a second season confirmed, stars Jon Hamm as Andrew “Coop” Cooper—a former hedge fund manager dealing with a messy divorce and financial disgrace.

Munn’s Role Focuses on a Strong, Struggling Mother

Munn plays Samantha, a divorced mother who starts a romance with Coop while trying to survive in a rich and ruthless environment. She spoke about the show’s focus on wealthy individuals who seem untouchable but eventually fall apart. “There’s a carelessness with which they live their life. They feel impervious to the world and it’s so fascinating to watch these people crumble,” Munn said.

She also described her character as tough and determined. “Samantha is a survivor, she’s going to do anything to maintain her place and take care of her children,” she added, as quoted by Deadline.

She Battled Breast Cancer Before Returning to Screen

Munn’s comeback to acting wasn’t just emotional—it was also physical. Just months before filming, she had surgery and treatment for breast cancer. Now in remission, she is healthy and ready to continue. She will return in Season 2 of the series. At first, the creators planned Samantha’s role as a one-season character. But Munn’s powerful performance convinced them to keep her in the show. Creator Jonathan Tropper explained the change. “After working with her for a little while, I think we had consensus across the board, we wanted her to stay,” he said.