Beckham’s daughter-in-law plays Franny Forst, the wife of Byron Forst (also known as The Corporation), portrayed by Ashton Kutcher. Byron has built a trillion-dollar empire through a super drug called “The Beauty.” Administered by injection or transmitted sexually, this drug promises to transform users into the best physical version of themselves.
Franny strongly opposes the drug and what it represents. “The Beauty” grants users an attractive appearance by altering their physical and genetic makeup. Although marketed as a treatment, a sexually transmitted variant spreads rapidly while those behind the drug try to hide its deadly side effects.
Throughout the season, the role was played by veteran actress Isabella Rossellini. In the season finale, Byron and Franny’s son injects her with “The Beauty.” Byron is shocked to see his wife transform into a completely different appearance. At this point, Nicola Peltz Beckham takes over the role, leading to a new tragic climax. The younger, more beautiful Franny suffers deeply, feeling trapped in a body that isn’t truly hers and even attempts suicide. When she ends up on life support, Byron, the head of “The Beauty” empire, seems to awaken and focuses his resources on stopping the spread of the terrifying drug.
Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter about joining The Beauty, Nicola said, “Ryan (the producer and creator Ryan Murphy) told me he was considering me for this new show, and when he explained it, I was so excited to collaborate and be part of the world of The Beauty. I’m a huge fan of Ryan and everything he does.”
Reflecting on her pivotal role showing the husband’s pain and transformation as he witnesses his wife’s suffering, Nicola added, “I wanted to see the good in things, and I really think the thought of losing her affected him deeply. Ashton Kutcher is an amazing actor. Watching that episode moved me a lot.” The model and actress also shared that the show’s message resonated with her: not to chase youth but to appreciate the blessing of living fully into old age.
Playing the “younger version” of a character originally portrayed by a legendary actress like Isabella Rossellini is a great honor for Nicola. She hopes to continue the story in future seasons.
The Beauty is a horror series that has attracted much attention and controversy for its bold, intense, and sharply satirical take on a fictional “miracle drug.” Despite a star-studded cast, Nicola Peltz Beckham’s role is a guest appearance with limited screen time. However, the significance of her character combined with recent media buzz around the Beckham family has made her a focal point.
When asked by The Hollywood Reporter about family tensions and her strained relationship with her in-laws, Nicola skillfully shifted focus to her artistic work. She revealed she has been concentrating on directing a new film to meet deadlines and preparing for the upcoming Cannes Film Festival. “It’s wonderful to focus on that and unleash creativity. It’s really exciting, and I can’t wait for the film to premiere.”
Asked whether she plans to focus more on directing in the future or balance it with acting, Nicola said, “Acting is definitely my first passion. I’ve loved it since I was 11, but I really enjoy being involved in storytelling in every way…”