For many looking inward, this could be a bed of roses for a world-famous star who is part of a globally recognizable franchise. Yes, it has its advantages, but there are also disadvantages, some of which are more fundamental than most. Zoe Saldanha recently opened up about her struggles to get involved in franchises, and she has more than enough knowledge on the subject.

Saldanha is one of the most recognizable faces and personalities in the industry. The actress has been featured in global franchises such as the Marvel Cinematic Universe and Star Trek. The actress also played the role of Neytiri in the James Cameron film. Avatar and Gamora in guardians of the galaxy a series of films. Speaking to Women’s Wear Daily, Saldanha said being involved in all of these projects also had its challenges. Expressing her gratitude for the opportunity to be a part of all these franchises, the actress revealed that she felt stuck, saying, “I feel like the last 10 years of my life I’ve just been stuck. I felt stuck working on these franchises.” Saldanha also expressed gratitude for being able to bring joy to the children with her role, however, the actress admits that the main roles in these franchise roles tend to impede creative growth. “But it also meant that I felt artistically stuck in my craft, not being able to expand, grow, or challenge myself by playing different genres and different roles,” she explains.

COLLIDER VIDEO OF THE DAY

In addition to the inhibition she felt these roles placed on her artistic abilities, Saldana reveals that she also struggled with “the pressure that society has on women that your youth is gone as soon as you have kids and you go to her 40s.” The actress goes on to add that she has taken control of her aging, her voice, and how she sees herself as a woman. She is excited to work with industry professionals who want to offer women a more liberating experience when it comes to their youth.

Zoe Saldana as Neytiri from Avatar
Image via 20th Century Fox

While Saldanha will return to one of her iconic roles when Avatar: Path of Water Released in theaters on December 16, the actress has recently been trying out her exceptional talent in a role other than her franchised projects. The actress recently starred as Amy in the touching Netflix series. From scratch. According to the memories From scratch: memories of love, Sicily and finding a home on Thembi Lok, The series explores the ups and downs of love and true commitment.

Avatar: Path of Water premieres in theaters on December 16. You can watch the trailer below: