Young Sheldon star Iain Armitage is opening up about his experience working on Big Little Lies, the acclaimed HBO series where he portrayed Ziggy Chapman, son of Shailene Woodley’s character. Speaking with Robert Peterpaul on the “The Art of Kindness” podcast, the 16-year-old actor reminisced about his time on the series, his co-stars, the show’s director Jean-Marc Vallée, and the chances of a third season. The episode, released in honor of World Kindness Week, gave fans an inside look at Armitage’s experiences working with some of Hollywood’s biggest names and his heartfelt memories of Vallée.
Reflections on an All-Star Cast
In the interview, Armitage shared his awe and appreciation for the Big Little Lies cast, which included Hollywood heavyweights like Nicole Kidman, Reese Witherspoon, Laura Dern, Zoe Kravitz, and Meryl Streep, who joined in the second season. Reflecting on the experience, Armitage said, “I knew how insane that was and how incredible those people I got to see and act with were, but also, at the same time, I’m still sort of shocked that I got to be a part of that.” Despite his youth, Armitage clearly recognized the rarity and significance of working with such a celebrated ensemble.
As he spoke about his female co-stars, Armitage was careful to find the right words, describing them as “glorious and magnificent.” He explained, “I don’t want to use ‘diva’ in a negative connotation…Every single person was so talented and just so wonderful. And again, so down to earth and so humble.” His remarks reveal not only his admiration for these actresses but also his recognition of their grounded attitudes, which made a strong impression on him.
Armitage also expressed an interesting insight about humility in Hollywood: “I think I’ve never met an actually talented, famous, good actor who is really seriously conceited or vain or not humble…you realize that you are another person on set. And it would be stupid to be conceited about your role on a film set.”
Honoring Jean-Marc Vallée’s Legacy
Armitage also shared poignant memories of Big Little Lies director Jean-Marc Vallée, who passed away in 2021. Vallée, renowned for his deeply emotional and visually striking storytelling, directed the first season and edited the second. Armitage described Vallée as “the best director I’ve ever worked with,” and elaborated on the unique qualities Vallée brought to his projects. “All of those incredible shots…the colors he used…everything was all from his heart,” Armitage said. “Every project he worked on…was incredible, and I highly recommend you go down a JMV rabbit hole and see the stuff he’s worked on because he was incredible.”
Armitage fondly remembered Vallée not only for his artistic vision but also for his kindness, saying, “I think his heart was so big and he had so much love to give. I’m insanely impressed and very honored to have gotten to meet him.” His tribute highlights the lasting impact Vallée had on the young actor, who considers himself “forever grateful” for having had the opportunity to work with the late director.
Is There a Season 3 of Big Little Lies in the Works?
Big Little Lies concluded its second season in 2019, and rumors of a third season have circulated since then. While there is no official confirmation, Armitage expressed hope that a third installment could happen. “I think it is going to happen,” he said. “I think there will be a third season at some point.” However, he was quick to add that without Vallée’s involvement, any future season would have a different feel. “I don’t know exactly when, and second of all, I don’t know how they’re gonna do it without [Jean-Marc Vallée]. Because even in the second season where he didn’t direct, he edited it.”
His comments reflect a shared sentiment among fans and cast members alike, as Vallée’s unique vision shaped the atmosphere and depth of Big Little Lies. Armitage’s reflections capture both the excitement of continuing the story and the bittersweet reality of Vallée’s absence.
What a Third Season Could Mean for Big Little Lies
A third season of Big Little Lies would give fans a chance to revisit the show’s richly developed characters and continue exploring the drama and emotional depths of the Monterey Five. The story of Ziggy Chapman and his mother Jane, along with their connections to the other women in Monterey, provides ample material for future storytelling, especially as the children in the series grow and develop in parallel with their mothers’ complex lives.
For Armitage, reprising his role as Ziggy would not only mean continuing his character’s journey but also an opportunity to honor Vallée’s legacy by contributing to a project he held dear. As he noted, he would “love to be on” a third season if it happens, though he remains as much in the dark about the show’s future as fans.
Final Thoughts: Iain Armitage’s Journey from Young Sheldon to Big Little Lies
Armitage’s reflections on Big Little Lies reveal a deep respect for the people he worked with and an understanding of the creative processes that make a series like this so successful. At just 16, he’s already had the privilege of working alongside some of the most talented names in Hollywood and credits Vallée as one of his greatest influences. His gratitude and humility shine through as he remembers these experiences, capturing the joy, reverence, and admiration he feels for his co-stars and director.
Fans of both Young Sheldon and Big Little Lies will undoubtedly continue to follow Armitage’s career with interest, especially if a third season of Big Little Lies eventually materializes. Armitage’s hopeful outlook and love for storytelling offer a promising future for the young actor, whose career is just beginning.
In a world that often focuses on the sensational, Armitage’s words on The Art of Kindness podcast serve as a refreshing reminder of the importance of humility, gratitude, and kindness—both on and off the set. Whether or not a third season of Big Little Lies is confirmed, fans can celebrate Armitage’s heartfelt connection to the series and his admiration for the people he met along the way.
