‘1923’: Alex’s Ellis Island Medical Examination Highlights the Harsh Reality for Female Immigrants

Episode 3 of 1923: A Dramatic Arrival at Ellis Island

In a gripping turn of events, Episode 3 of 1923 escalated the tension by finally resolving last week’s harrowing wolf attack while simultaneously introducing Alexandra’s arrival at Ellis Island. Sadly, her experience in America proved to be far worse than her perilous journey by boat.

A Shocking Welcome

Upon her arrival, Alexandra is confronted with aggression by an immigration officer, who delivers a shocking punch to her stomach. This brutal introduction sets the stage for a series of unsettling experiences, as she is forced to undergo three invasive medical examinations conducted by different doctors. These scenes are particularly difficult to watch, especially given Alex’s pregnancy with Spencer Dutton’s child.

Challenges Faced by the Cast

Julia Schlaepfer, who portrays Alexandra, revealed the personal difficulties she faced while filming such intense scenes. In an exclusive interview with People, she admitted, “My body doesn’t know the difference. I know that I’m acting, but my body doesn’t.” This highlights the profound impact of her role, despite the comfort of having a skilled intimacy coordinator present on set.

The Importance of Telling Alexandra’s Story

Both Schlaepfer and writer/creator Taylor Sheridan underscored the significance of authentically portraying the struggles faced by a pregnant single woman navigating the immigration process at Ellis Island. As Schlaepfer expressed to Deadline, “It felt so important to me to tell this story, ” reflecting on the myriad individuals who endured similar hardships. Her own family history, rooted in her great-grandfather’s negative experiences as an immigrant, contributed to her drive to convey this narrative.

The Harsh Reality of Medical Examinations

Investigating the specifics surrounding the medical examinations faced by female immigrants at Ellis Island proved to be more challenging than anticipated. Records indicate that while most examinations were brief, women traveling alone—often pregnant—could face extensive evaluations lasting several hours. According to the New York Historical Society’s Women and the American Story (WAMS), although only one percent of immigrants were ultimately denied entry for medical reasons, around 20 percent experienced detention, highlighting the often harrowing nature of the process.

The Continuity of Fear for Women

Over a century later, experiences for women traveling alone remain daunting. Schlaepfer resonated with this sentiment, acknowledging that even in 2025, women still encounter significant fears while traveling solo. She remarked, “It didn’t surprise me that Alex went through this kind of treatment, ” reinforcing the persistent challenges women face globally.

Catch the latest episodes of 1923 on Paramount Plus.

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