In a world of fantasy and magic, the world of Shadow and Bone captivated audiences with its unique blend of adventure, romance, and self-discovery. Jessie Mei Li, best known for her role as Alina Starkov, looks back on her time on the set of the drama series with a sense of accomplishment and gratitude.
Despite being a relatively new face in the acting world, Li’s career was already taking off before the Shadow and Bone series even premiered.
- She had recently gained recognition for her role in the horror film Last Night in Soho.
- Her performance in the film showcased her versatility as an actress, bringing to life a complex and nuanced character.
However, despite the success of her previous film, Li was still an unknown quantity when she landed the role in Shadow and Bone.
- At the time, Li had only taken a couple of acting classes and courses.
- She felt overwhelmed by the sudden transition to a leading role in a fantasy series.
But Li’s inexperience proved to be a blessing in disguise. She said, “I never really foresaw this as my life. I kind of stumbled my way into acting by being in the right place at the right time.”
In the Shadow and Bone series, Li played the role of Alina Starkov, a young orphan who discovers she has the power to summon and control an ancient magic.



