With a career spanning decades, Shohreh Aghdashloo’s breakout role came in 2003 with House of Sand and Fog, followed by notable appearances in X-Men: The Last Stand, 24, The Punisher, The Penguin, and many more. However, for many fans of the science fiction genre, Aghdashloo is synonymous with her iconic character, Chrisjen Avasarala, from The Expanse, where she portrayed a fierce and fabulous defender of Earth throughout the beloved series. Interestingly, her popularity in this role paved the way for her latest character, the equally fierce and fabulous Elaida a’Roihan in Wheel of Time.

In an interview with Collider, Aghdashloo revealed that it was the fans of The Expanse who sparked her interest in joining the cast of Wheel of Time, which is currently in its third season on Prime Video. “After completing The Expanse, the fans and those who appreciated my work on the show began suggesting that I should be cast in another TV series,” she reminisced with delight.

“One of the fans proposed the idea of The Wheel of Time, and I had already seen the show. I wondered if there might be a role for me in it, but I didn’t pursue it further. However, the fans continued to express their enthusiasm, saying that I would be a good fit for the series.” Aghdashloo’s social media team took notice of the persistent fan requests and encouraged her to explore the opportunity.

Aghdashloo shared that her team suggested reaching out to the showrunner, and one of the fans provided the name of Rafe Judkins, the showrunner of Wheel of Time, whom she describes as one of the best showrunners she has worked with. Judkins began direct messaging her, expressing that she had been on their radar since 2018 but was previously busy with The Expanse. Two weeks later, Aghdashloo received an offer from Judkins, which she eagerly accepted.

Ultimately, everything worked out, and Aghdashloo can now be seen stealing every scene as Elaida in season three of Wheel of Time on Prime Video. Her character’s stunning, jewel-bedecked wardrobe is reminiscent of her iconic looks as Avasarala in The Expanse.

For more news from io9, check out the latest updates on upcoming Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases. You can also stay informed about the DC Universe on film and TV, as well as the future of Doctor Who.