Nadia on 'New Girl' 'Memba Her?!
Whatever Happened to Nadia from New Girl? A Look Back at the Scene-Stealing Model
When New Girl premiered in 2011, it quickly won audiences over with its quirky humor, lovable characters, and a fresh spin on the classic sitcom format. While Zooey Deschanel’s Jess was the undeniable centerpiece, the show also introduced fans to a vibrant array of supporting characters who brought unique energy to the screen. Among them was Nadia—the stunning, blunt, and hilariously awkward Russian model who left a lasting impression, even in her limited appearances.
But what happened to the actress behind the unforgettable character? Let's revisit Nadia’s impact on New Girl, her standout moments, and where the actress is now.
Who Was Nadia on New Girl?
Nadia made her first appearance in Season 1 of New Girl during the episode titled “Models.” She was introduced as one of Cece’s fellow models—beautiful, intimidating, and hilariously offbeat. Portrayed by American actress Rebecca Reid, Nadia was a memorable contrast to the more composed and grounded Cece, played by Hannah Simone.
Her character was known for:
A thick Eastern European accent.
Strange and often inappropriate comments.
An endearing cluelessness about social norms.
A chaotic but oddly charming energy.
Even with minimal screen time, Nadia became a fan favorite due to her unpredictable antics and unique comedic timing. One of her most iconic moments? Accidentally injuring Schmidt during a misguided attempt at intimacy—a scene that still circulates online for its absurd humor.
Meet Rebecca Reid: The Actress Behind Nadia
Rebecca Reid is a British model-turned-actress who transitioned into television with her role on New Girl. While her portrayal of Nadia was a breakthrough moment for her in American television, Reid had already established herself in the fashion world prior to her acting career.
Career Highlights:
Reid began her career as a high-fashion model, working in major cities such as London and New York.
Following New Girl, she appeared in other television projects and independent films.
In addition to acting, Reid has pursued writing and producing, showing versatility beyond her on-screen performances.
Despite not becoming a household name, Reid’s performance as Nadia continues to resonate with fans who appreciate her comedic chops and bold presence in a show known for its eccentric characters.
Why Nadia Still Resonates
Although she wasn’t a series regular, Nadia’s brief arc provided comic relief and helped develop other characters—particularly Schmidt and Cece. More importantly, her character challenged typical sitcom stereotypes of the "hot model" by making her more than just eye candy. Nadia was bizarre, confident, and absolutely herself, which is exactly why she stood out.
Her scenes became viral-worthy moments that encapsulated the unexpected and offbeat humor that New Girl was known for. In many ways, Nadia's oddball energy captured the show's willingness to take creative risks.
Where Is Rebecca Reid Now?
While Rebecca Reid has stepped back from mainstream TV in recent years, she has continued to explore creative avenues. She's reportedly involved in writing and producing independent projects and remains active in the creative arts scene.
Like many actors who get their start in sitcoms, Reid has chosen to diversify her portfolio rather than chase celebrity. This quiet evolution might explain her limited presence in Hollywood gossip columns, but her dedicated fan base still remembers her fondly—particularly for turning a small supporting role into something truly memorable.
The Legacy of a Scene-Stealer
Nadia may have only appeared in a few episodes of New Girl, but she’s a perfect example of how a well-executed minor character can leave a lasting mark. Thanks to Rebecca Reid’s fearless performance, Nadia remains one of the show’s most iconic side characters.
Whether you're rewatching New Girl or discovering it for the first time, keep an eye out for Nadia’s scenes—they’re weird, wild, and absolutely worth the revisit.