Does Poussey Really Speak German?

No, Samira Wiley, the actress who portrays Poussey Washington in Orange is the New Black, does not actually speak German. While her character demonstrates proficiency in the language during certain scenes, this was a result of dedicated preparation and acting.

Poussey's German Proficiency in the Show

In Orange is the New Black, Poussey Washington is depicted as having lived in Germany during her formative years due to her father's military service. These flashback scenes require her to speak German, adding depth and backstory to her character. Her ability to converse in German is an integral part of her identity within the series.

The Actress's Preparation for German Dialogue

To convincingly portray Poussey's German-speaking scenes, Samira Wiley undertook significant effort and training. She did not have prior German language skills but committed to learning the lines phonetically and accurately for the role.

Her preparation involved:

• Working with a Language Coach: Wiley spent a considerable amount of time with a coach specifically to master the pronunciation and intonation required for the German dialogue.
• Intensive Practice: To ensure her delivery was natural and believable, she reportedly practiced her lines repeatedly, even "shouting things around her apartment."

This rigorous dedication allowed Samira Wiley to deliver a compelling performance, making Poussey's German-speaking moments feel authentic to the audience, despite the language not being the actress's native tongue.

Character vs. Actor Skill

It's common in film and television for actors to portray characters with skills or abilities they do not possess in real life. The table below highlights this distinction for Poussey's German language ability:

This contrast underscores the craft of acting, where performers dedicate themselves to embodying their characters' traits, regardless of their own personal aptitudes.