As the age old saying goes, “Behind every great man is a strong woman.” In Robert Gillings’ case, it’s his company of talented actresses who all stand strong beside him, challenging the status quo in his new series Paper Empire, which has chosen to shoot part of its production in AlUla,Saudi Arabia.
In a television landscape often dominated by male narratives, Paper Empire is refreshingly unique, placing strong, independent women at the forefront of its story. Created by Robert Gillings, the show offers more than just captivating drama—it serves as a powerful statement on the importance of female empowerment represented in today’s world. Set in the world of Crypto and finance, the series reflects this ever changing and unpredictable landscape in very real time. With an amazing cast of talent led by Robert Davi and Denise Richards, the tension between the main characters and the revolving guestlist of star talent is highly engaging. The cast of the first two parts or seasons, that have already been shot in their entirety feature a remarkable cast including Robert Davi and Denise Richards, with Kelsey Grammer, Wesley Snipes, Anne Archer, Carol Alt as just some of the star studded ensemble- and for season three, newly welcomed cast member AnnaLynne McCord who shot her scenes in AlUla. All three seasons are shooting back to back and in different centers of industry around the world.
Gillings has created a series that packs a punch and what’s so refreshing to watch in Paper Empire is its representation of female characters within this landscape. Embodying resilience, intelligence, and leadership, Paper Empire is a testament to the evolving roles of women in the entertainment industry and beyond. “Being a single parent, raising two daughters of my own, I ensure equality and deservingly so,” says Gillings. “I have given my daughters the same opportunities as I have my son. I teach equality by a strong example at home, so that they take empowerment out into the business world. That women are more than capable and they deserve, demand, the same opportunities and wages. No woman should allow anyone to stand in her way from reaching her full potential.”
Gillings acknowledges the opposition women face by placing his female characters in positions of power, challenging the traditional narratives that have long dominated television. “Throughout history, women have experienced oppression greater than any race, religion, or nationality,” he states. “Throughout history, women have not had fundamental human rights. Today still, women face oppression and discrimination. My motivation is to show that women can succeed in any arena, proving that gender doesn’t matter. I want audiences to see that fear should be an illusion for women and that they can achieve anything they desire.”
Paper Empire features an impressive lineup of female characters, each bringing something unique to the story. Gillings highlights the actresses’ dedication and passion to the process, and their contributions to their characters’ development. “Women seem to be much more intuitive, the female mind is an incredible place to explore,” he notes, appreciating the depth of understanding and empathy his actresses bring to their roles.
Playing the character of a wife who overcomes the devastation of her husband’s criminal schemes, “Denise Richards leads the conversation when it comes to empowered women,” says Gillings. “She brings a ‘you can’t keep a great woman down’ performance that resonates deeply with audiences.”
Similarly, AnnaLynne McCord, who portrays a fearless CIA agent, embodies strength on screen, and also off screen. Known for her advocacy against domestic violence and sexual assault, McCord’s real-life resilience translates into her character, making her a formidable presence in the series. Other notable women in the cast include Academy Award nominee Anne Archer, who portrays the first female Director of the FBI, breaking barriers in an all-male position of power. Gillings gushes with excitement when reflecting on his female cast and the roles they play in their daily lives. “Carol Alt, daughter of an altruistic FDNY Fire Chief, is a supermodel, actress, entrepreneur, and Stanley Cup-winning team owner. Her bold entrepreneurial vision made her perfect for a role matching Kelsey Grammer’s power and intelligence; Ariadna Gutierrez, despite her brief Miss Universe reign, showcased incredible resilience. Her character in Paper Empire embodies forgiveness, happiness, and love; Bleona Qereti, an Albanian singer, songwriter, actress, entrepreneur, and model, broke cultural molds and championed female empowerment in Albania!”
Emphasizing the diverse strengths of his female characters, who defy social norms and expectations, Paper Empire stands as a beacon of progress. Its portrayal of strong, diverse women resonates with audiences worldwide, particularly in regions where gender norms are still rigid. Lebanese actress Cynthia Khalifeh, an already established talent in the Middle East, Egypt and France, reflects on her Paper Empire experience fondly. “Paper Empire was the first opportunity for me to enter the American market. Robert was and still is a great support for my career. I loved playing a CIA Agent, this kind of role resembles me as a tough, hardworking and curious woman.” By showcasing women in roles of power and influence the show not only entertains, but confronts viewers to rethink long held perceptions of the roles we fill in society governed by gender and empowerment. Gillings notes, “Helena Mattsson, Elisabetta Fantone, Laticia Rolle, Charlotte Coles, Cynthia Khalifeh, Donna D’Errico, Flavia Prado, and Desirre Torrez each bring unique strengths and backgrounds to their characters, reflecting the multifaceted nature of empowered women.”
Carol Alt, one of the show’s standout stars, emphasizes the strength and independence of her character, Makaela. “Robert’s female characters are always very strong, independent, and capable women. My character, Makaela, is not just an equal to her partner, London, but he depends on her—she is an important part of the partnership,” Alt shares. It’s clear that through Gillings’ willingness for inspired collaboration with his actresses, he is able to ensure their characters are fully realized, multifaceted individuals.
In a world where women are still fighting for equality, Gillings is proud to champion these ideas and will continue to do so, not only as the creator of Paper Empire, but its writer and director. Gillings explains, “By placing them at the top, in power positions, others are independent, perform feats of strength, courage, emotional intelligence, and their amazing adaptability, each actress brings her own inspired story of empowerment.”
With season three filming in AlUla, Saudi Arabia, the awareness regarding equal opportunities for men and women, with an emphasis on how important it is to support female empowerment globally, could not be more perfectly timed. It’s indeed a radical move. As the first Hollywood TV show to be filmed in Saudi Arabia at the newly opened AlUla Studios, Gillings is taking inspiration and motivation from Saudi Arabia’s 2018 initiative of Female Equality. Gillings took steps to expand the possibilities, given the subject matter of the show and its strong female characters. “The shooting scripts had to be approved by the Royal Commission of Alula before production was greenlit, we made sure to respect the modesty aspect in their country of course. The challenges were actually very exciting for me, to understand the rules, then push the boundaries a little. But it was refreshing to explore other ways to navigate our character’s arcs within the guidelines of respecting their laws. The key is always to respect authentic characterizations and I’m so proud of what we’re doing.”
Eva Moyer, the show’s wardrobe designer, echoes this sentiment, noting the significance of Paper Empire‘s message in a global context. “It is an honor and privilege to be a part of Gillings’ Paper Empire and its pioneering movement for women’s empowerment happening right now in Saudi Arabia,” Moyer states. Her role in creating the visual representation of these powerful women is a crucial part of the show’s success, “Ensuring that the characters’ strength is reflected not just in their actions but in their appearance as well.”
The women of Paper Empire are more than just characters—they are role models and sources of inspiration. The show’s portrayal of strong, empowered women offers a message of hope and resilience, encouraging viewers to break free from societal constraints and pursue their dreams. As Gillings puts it, “Gender doesn’t matter. Women can and do succeed.” In Paper Empire, the women are warriors, leaders, and survivors—each one a testament to the strength and resilience of women everywhere. Whether on screen or behind the scenes, the series is a powerful reminder that women have always been, and will continue to be, a force to be reckoned with.