‘Ponies' creators on casting Emilia Clarke, Haley Lu Richardson in series

The creators of Peacock’s new espionage series Ponies say casting Emilia Clarke and Haley Lu Richardson was the key ingredient in making the show’s unusual mix of spy drama and comedy work. 

Now streaming with all eight episodes available, Ponies introduces viewers to two unexpected CIA recruits whose lives are turned upside down by tragedy and secrets tied to Cold War–era espionage.

The series centers on Beatrice “Bea” Grant, played by Clarke, and Twila Hasbeck, portrayed by Richardson. 

Both women are initially dismissed as “persons of no interest,” a phrase that ultimately gives the show its title. Their lives change after learning their husbands died under suspicious circumstances during a covert operation in Moscow. 

With no formal training or background in intelligence work, Bea and Twila decide to involve themselves with the CIA, hoping to uncover the truth.

What follows is a dangerous journey into KGB secrets, layered with humour driven by their offbeat reactions to life-or-death situations.

According to co-creator Susanna Fogel, Clarke stood out almost immediately, even though the role was unlike what audiences typically associate with her. 

“Emilia was somebody who we were a fan of but hadn’t seen do this particular role: this particular American, neurotic East Coast kind of period Hollywood version of me role, but she’s an incredible actress,” Fogel said. 

She added that once they met Clarke, it became clear she was “so on that frequency,” noting that the part allowed Clarke to show sides of herself she hadn’t been known for before.

Richardson’s casting was even more instant. 

“The minute she walked into the meeting, even before she opened her mouth, just the way that she walked, the way that she dressed, the way that she was, we’re like, ‘Oh, well, this meeting is unnecessary, because she clearly has to play this part,’” Fogel explained.

Both actresses worked closely with the creators to deepen their characters, balancing grief, fear, and humour. 

“There’s something that crackles about the way that they interpret these women,” Fogel said, adding that Clarke’s performance even influenced subtle changes to Bea’s character as scripts were revised.

With its blend of suspense, comedy, and character-driven storytelling, Ponies leans heavily on the chemistry and range of its leads. 

All eight episodes are now available on Peacock, inviting viewers into a spy story that doesn’t take itself too seriously—even when the stakes are deadly.