The 10 Best Haley Lu Richardson Roles

From indie standouts to buzzy TV, Haley Lu Richardson has built a résumé that spans drama, comedy, and thriller—often working with acclaimed filmmakers and on conversation-starting series. Below are ten roles that showcase the range of her work across films and shows, with quick context on each project, her character, and who she shared the screen with.

‘The White Lotus’ (2022) – Portia

In the second installment of the anthology series created by Mike White, Richardson plays Portia, an assistant caught up in the messy lives of wealthy resort guests in Sicily. The season features ensemble castmates including Jennifer Coolidge, Aubrey Plaza, Theo James, and Michael Imperioli. Shot on location in Italy, it explores class, desire, and power through intertwined storylines at a luxury hotel. The show blends satire and drama while following Portia’s misadventures alongside her boss and new acquaintances.

‘Columbus’ (2017) – Casey

Directed by Kogonada, ‘Columbus’ centers on two strangers who connect amid the modernist architecture of Columbus, Indiana. Richardson’s character, Casey, is a recent graduate caring for her mother while considering her future in design and academia. The film co-stars John Cho and Parker Posey, emphasizing character-driven conversation and quiet observation. Its visuals highlight real-world buildings by Eero Saarinen, I. M. Pei, and others.

‘Five Feet Apart’ (2019) – Stella Grant

This romantic drama follows two teenagers with cystic fibrosis who must maintain physical distance due to infection risks. Richardson plays Stella, a rule-following patient who designs routines to manage treatment and control her environment. Cole Sprouse co-stars as Will, whose rebellious streak clashes with hospital protocols. The film draws attention to CF care guidelines, infection control, and the emotional realities of long-term hospitalization.

‘Split’ (2016) – Claire Benoit

Written and directed by M. Night Shyamalan, ‘Split’ tracks the abduction of three teens by a man with dissociative identity disorder. Richardson portrays Claire, one of the captives who works with her classmates to find a way out. James McAvoy leads the cast with multiple on-screen personas, while Anya Taylor-Joy and Jessica Sula co-star. The film connects to Shyamalan’s broader universe through narrative and character threads.

‘Unpregnant’ (2020) – Veronica

Based on the novel by Jenni Hendriks and Ted Caplan, ‘Unpregnant’ follows a Missouri high-school student who embarks on a cross-state road trip to access abortion services. Richardson plays Veronica, whose journey reunites her with estranged friend Bailey, portrayed by Barbie Ferreira. The story balances comedic detours with practical obstacles such as consent laws, travel logistics, and clinic procedures. It was released as an HBO Max original with a supporting cast that includes Giancarlo Esposito and Betty Who.

‘The Edge of Seventeen’ (2016) – Krista

This coming-of-age film, written and directed by Kelly Fremon Craig, centers on a teen navigating friendship and family upheaval. Richardson appears as Krista, whose evolving relationship choices put strain on her best friend Nadine, played by Hailee Steinfeld. Woody Harrelson, Kyra Sedgwick, and Blake Jenner round out the ensemble. The story examines social dynamics, sibling tension, and the awkwardness of high school life.

‘The Chaperone’ (2018) – Louise Brooks

Adapted from Laura Moriarty’s novel and produced for ‘Masterpiece’, ‘The Chaperone’ dramatizes an early chapter in the life of silent-film star Louise Brooks. Richardson portrays Brooks during her formative dance years, opposite Elizabeth McGovern as the guardian accompanying her to New York. The film features period-costume work, onstage rehearsal scenes, and references to the Denishawn School. It explores personal reinvention against the backdrop of changing American culture.

‘Montana Story’ (2022) – Erin

Co-directed by Scott McGehee and David Siegel, ‘Montana Story’ follows estranged siblings who reunite at their family ranch during a crisis. Richardson plays Erin, returning home to face unresolved conflicts with her brother, played by Owen Teague. The production uses expansive western landscapes to frame intimate interpersonal stakes. Supporting performances include Gilbert Owuor and Kimberly Guerrero.

‘Love at First Sight’ (2023) – Hadley Sullivan

Adapted from Jennifer E. Smith’s novel, this romantic drama traces two travelers who meet en route from New York to London. Richardson plays Hadley, whose missed connection with Oliver, portrayed by Ben Hardy, sparks a serendipitous search across the city. The film employs a playful narration device featuring Jameela Jamil in multiple cameo-like roles. It blends airport logistics, family events, and probability-themed details into a cross-Atlantic love story.

‘After Yang’ (2021) – Ada

From writer-director Kogonada, ‘After Yang’ is a contemplative science-fiction film about a family coping with the breakdown of their android companion. Richardson appears as Ada, a figure linked to the android’s hidden memories. The cast includes Colin Farrell, Jodie Turner-Smith, and Malea Emma Tjandrawidjaja. The film explores memory, identity, and technology through low-key worldbuilding and intimate conversations.

Share your favorites in the comments—what Haley Lu Richardson roles would you add to the list?