Sarah Polley returns to acting after 17 years in Seth Rogen’s The Studio

Oscar-winning filmmaker Sarah Polley has returned to acting after a 17-year hiatus, joining Seth Rogen's new Apple TV+ comedy series, The Studio.

The show, a satirical take on Hollywood’s chaotic film industry, features Polley playing a fictionalized version of herself.

Polley, known for her critically acclaimed films Women Talking and Away from Her, had stepped away from acting to focus on directing. However, Rogen convinced her to step back in front of the camera for The Studio, which premiered on March 26, 2025.

In the series, Rogen plays Matt Remick, a struggling studio head torn between Hollywood’s franchise-driven system and his passion for original filmmaking. In the second episode, Polley’s character finds her film production disrupted by Matt, leading to comedic chaos. Polley described the experience as “really cathartic,” embracing the opportunity to release years of pent-up on-set frustrations through humor.

The show also features an ensemble cast including Catherine O'Hara, along with guest appearances by Martin Scorsese, Ron Howard, and Owen Kline. With its sharp industry satire and star-studded lineup, The Studio has already earned critical acclaim, boasting a 98% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

Polley’s return to acting highlights her versatility and marks a rare comedic turn for the filmmaker. The Studio is now streaming on Apple TV+, with new episodes releasing weekly.