In a weekly feature named YSL News’s The Essentials, celebrities disclose what drives their lives, whether at home, on set, or while traveling.

Natasha Rothwell’s career is on a steady rise.

In addition to producing Hulu’s comedy “How to Die Alone” (currently streaming), Rothwell portrays Melissa Jackson, an employee at New York City’s John F. Kennedy International Airport who aspires for both her career and personal life to excel, but her fear of rejection keeps her tethered.

“This project emerged from my desire to see a new representation of myself on screen,” shares Rothwell, who gained recognition from HBO’s “The White Lotus” and “Insecure.” “I was drawn to the theme of loneliness versus being alone and the nuances involved.”

In her debut leading role, a life-threatening event on the eve of her 35th birthday empowers Melissa — who previously feared flying — to embrace a more mindful and adventurous lifestyle.

Rothwell shares the must-haves that accompany her, including her “bizarre” essential and teases about the upcoming season of “The White Lotus” (as much as she can reveal).

Natasha Rothwell discusses Season 3 of ‘The White Lotus’: ‘It was extremely hot’

Rothwell dedicated five months to filming the third season of “The White Lotus,” which will debut in 2025. She played the role of spa manager Belinda Lindsey in the show’s first season and will return in the upcoming chapter alongside Leslie Bibb, Carrie Coon, Scott Glenn, Walton Goggins, Michelle Monaghan, and Parker Posey.

“For my essentials in Thailand, I needed sunscreen; it was incredibly hot,” reveals Rothwell. “And pad see ew — it was so tasty! That’s probably my blood type at this point.”

However, she can’t share too many secrets, despite still depending on the production assistants: “We have a group chat. It’s amazing.”

The ‘endless laughs’ from ‘The Office’

“I possess an amusingly extensive knowledge of ‘The Office,'” Rothwell confesses about the NBC comedy (2005–2013). “I adore the show. I came across something discussing anxiety, suggesting people rewatch familiar shows because they bring comfort and relaxation. I can turn it on at any moment, any season, and it brings me peace.”

She describes the “Dinner Party” episode from Season 4, where Michael (Steve Carell) welcomes guests to his home, as “legendary.”

“It’s pure comedy, filled with continual laughter,” she explains, noting her affection for the slow-building romance between Jim (John Krasinski) and Pam (Jenna Fischer).

“I’m a romantic comedy enthusiast, and I love stories where characters discover each other despite poor timing and experience that kind of longing reminiscent of Austen’s works in a contemporary context,” Rothwell states. So much so that when working with “The Office” writer Halsted Sullivan on “How to Die Alone,” she had to “restrain myself” from seeking gossip, saying, “All I wanted was ‘Office’ stories. But we were focused on our work, so I had to hold back.”

Fascination with true-crime documentaries

Like many, including Kaley Cuoco, Rothwell has a passion for true-crime stories.

“I enjoy understanding psychology through those tales,” she comments. “As actors, studying human behavior is fundamental to our craft, and I’m intrigued by individuals who commit wrongdoings. Being a Libra, balance and justice resonate deeply within me.”

Natasha Rothwell’s Goldendoodle, named after a classic ’80s romantic comedy, is ‘everything’

Rothwell’s Goldendoodle, Lloyd Dobler, pays homage to John Hughes’ classic ’80s rom-com, embodying everything she loves.

Cusack’s character, who famously held a boom box in “Say Anything.”

“He means the world to me,” she shares. “There’s something truly enchanting about dogs. I’ve wanted one for quite a while, and when I moved to L.A. about eight years ago, I finally made that wish come true.”

Lloyd has quite an impressive personality, she says, and even showed up in a tuxedo at the Los Angeles premiere of her new series on September 4.

“He loves being around people,” she notes. “He hardly ever barks and is very happy.”

A unique affection for this delightful treat

“Honestly, my absolute favorite candy that puzzles others is Jordan almonds,” she admits.

She understands this might be an unpopular choice, but Rothwell doesn’t mind. “It’s quite unusual,” she explains. “People often react with surprise: ‘What?'”

“I have a bit of a neurodivergent mindset. The texture fascinates me; it has a satisfying crunch. It’s a tough nut to crack, which makes it kind of addictive. It really fulfills that craving.”