Billie Eilish has made a surprise acting debut in the Prime Video series, Swarm. The show, co-created by Donald Glover and showrunner Janine Nabers, follows a young woman named Dre (Dominique Fishback) as she embarks on a dark journey across the country, obsessed with a pop star and dealing with an unexpected trauma involving her sister.
In episode four, Billie Eilish plays Eva, a cult leader among white women attending the Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival. Eva’s encounter with Dre results in a clash of personalities and bloodshed. Casting director Carmen Cuba knew Eilish was interested in acting and suggested she join the cast.
Swarm also features an impressive cast of unexpected supporting players, including Damson Idris, Bryron Bowers, Kiersey Clemons, Paris Jackson, internet personality Rickey Thompson, Rory Culkin, and American Auto breakout X Mayo. Bailey and Jackson’s casting provided an opportunity to play up the meta commentary about fandoms and followers.
When asked about Swarm’s fandom commentary, Nabers explained that the show criticizes the ownership that fans can have over their idols. Given Glover’s successful musical career, Nabers believes the story can be read as a critique of fandoms in general, and the Beyhive in particular.
While Eilish has appeared in music documentaries and voiced a version of herself for a Simpsons short film, Swarm marks her first time appearing in a fully scripted role. Eilish’s involvement in the show adds to the growing list of musicians who have expanded into acting roles.
Swarm is now streaming on Prime Video, and Billie Eilish’s performance is sure to captivate audiences and demonstrate her range as an artist beyond her music career.