sandy sidhu

Having quickly become a fan-favorite on NBC’s Nurses, Sandy Sidhu shines as Nazneen. We talked to the actress about behind the scenes moments, lessons learned in 2020 and more!

words by VANESSA SALLES photo courtesy of Sandy Sidhu

Tell us about Nurses! What is It about the

show that drew you in and made you want to be involved?

It’s a coming of age series following five rookie nurses, fresh out of school, working the frontlines of a busy downtown Toronto hospital, dedicating their lives to helping others, while also struggling to help themselves. One of the things that makes Nurses special is this bond that forms between our five nurses, as they try to find a work/life balance. It’s not so much that I was drawn to Naz, as it was one of those few roles that comes around where I just instantly understood her. I could clearly see her mind and heart, how I wanted to play her, and where I wanted to take her. I owe that to my mother. My mother immigrated from India, moved to Canada, and became a nurse. Nazneen immigrated from India, moved to Canada, and became a nurse. While they’re completely different in personality and background, they are both pioneers who left what they knew behind, taking a chance on a new life. That requires a great deal of courage.

How would you describe Nazneen? What’s your favorite part about portraying her?

Nazneen is whip smart, comes from a very wealthy family in India, and begins her first job ever as a nurse at Saint Mary’s hospital, in Toronto. The big question is why did this wealthy daughter leave behind her incredible life in India, to become a nurse in Canada? This slowly unravels as the series progresses. It was a blast playing the opposites in Naz. Just the dichotomy of her being a nurse, which is one of the most selfless jobs you could do, all the while coming from a really sheltered environment as her family placed zero responsibilities on her. Her naivety, her struggles, and her confusion in her growth into womanhood was one of my favorite parts of playing her.

How would you describe the vibe on set? What should viewers expect from the season?

As a cast, we all genuinely care about being there and to do our best in showcasing the heart of all nurses. It’s an exciting common goal you can feel. We also have the most amazing crew, and they really helped to create a welcoming and considerate set. We’re really spoiled when it comes to our crew and background performers. Audiences can expect high stakes stories from our patients, more romance and we’ll see the bonds grow between our main cast, as the stress of the job pulls them closer together.

What do you want to see more of?

I’d love to see more Indian women being the hero in a story. Because I know so many in my own life. It’s so important for children to see themselves reflected on screen.

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned in 2020?

Everyone has different needs through stress. 2020 taught me the importance of valuing my mental and physical health. For me, this was accomplished by reflecting on what my needs are and setting boundaries to ensure they’re being met. It could mean eating healthier/whole foods and moving my body. It could mean calling loved ones or setting time aside to just have fun for no reason. But I’ve learned it’s very important to understand yourself better and what you need.