‘90210’ Star AnnaLynne McCord Joins ‘Paper Empire’ Cast As S3 Shoots In Saudi Arabia

EXCLUSIVE: AnnaLynne McCord has joined the cast of Robert Gillings’ cryptocurrency drama Paper Empire as it films season three in AlUla in Saudi Arabia.

McCord plays Tabitha Sutton, a seasoned CIA protective agent and cyber security analyst, on assignment to monitor a CIA asset’s activity and ensure his mission objectives are adhered at the same time as providing security in a dangerous environment.

She joins an ensemble cast led by Robert Davi and also featuring Wesley Snipes, Denise Richards, Kelsey Grammar, Anne Archer, Carol Alt, Cuba Gooding Jr., Steve Guttenberg, Robert Knepper, Richard Grieco, and Carol Alt. 

Paper Empire revolves around Laurence Fintch (portrayed by Davi), a wealth management expert who accidentally creates a “digital limbo,” leading to an uncontrollable financial apocalypse. McCord’s character plays a pivotal role in navigating this high-stakes world of finance and deception.

Gillings spoke of his admiration for former Nip/Tuck and 90210 star McCord, who has spoken openly about being sexually assaulted as a child and teenager. He said she quickly understood the psychology and emotional truth of her character. 

“Personally, AnnaLynne is not just an example of a woman survivor of hellish child abuse; I see her as a warrior, a role model for others who have been victims of physical, mental, and sexual abuse, showing that one can not only overcome but succeed in life and career.  She’s heroic; she’s my hero,” he said.

The third season of Paper Empire is shot and set in Saudi Arabia’s heritage region of AlUla in the northwest of the country. 

Anna Lynne McCord is one of the first actresses to film an American TV show in the country since it started opening up as part of its 2030 Vision strategy aimed at moving the economy away from a reliance on oil.

“By filming the new season in AlUla, we bring a new dimension to the narrative, exploring the contrast between ancient history and modern financial technologies,” said Gillings, who aims to juxtapose the modern world of digital finance against AlUla’s timeless landscapes.

McCord first gained widespread recognition for her role as Naomi Clark in the popular teen drama series 90210, a modern-day spin-off of the iconic Beverly Hills, 90210. Prior to her success in 90210, she appeared in shows such as Nip/Tuck and American Heiress, with more recent big credits including Dante’s Return, Condition of Return and The Weapon.

Paper Empire is currently in production and is expected to hit screens in 2024.

McCord is represented by Innovative Artists, Vault Entertainment and Yorn, Levine.