Sterling K. Brown recently opened up about the unexpected plot twist in the premiere episode of the new political thriller series ‘Paradise’, exclusively to PEOPLE. The actor, known for his role in ‘This Is Us’, reunited with the show’s creator Dan Fogelman for this thrilling new project. Brown plays Xavier Collins, a secret service agent and single father of two, who becomes the prime suspect in the investigation of the murder of President Cal Bradford, portrayed by James Marsden.
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In the debut episode that aired on Sunday, Jan. 26, viewers were taken on a rollercoaster ride as Xavier finds the president’s body and embarks on a personal investigation, only to discover that he and others are actually living in a highly controlled underground bunker. This revelation leaves Xavier grappling with two central mysteries – who killed President Bradford and the reasons behind the confinement underground. Even though Brown, aged 48, is familiar with Fogelman’s penchant for plot twists, he admitted being taken by surprise by the pilot episode’s ending.
Upon realising the intricate layers of the storyline, Brown expressed his astonishment by exclaiming, “You son of a gun. You did it again.” He praised Fogelman’s ability to craft a narrative that goes beyond the surface, delving into unexpected territories. Brown shared his initial thoughts of viewing ‘Paradise’ as solely a political thriller, only to be blindsided by the twist that unfolded in the underground setting. The actor commended Fogelman for his creative vision and his talent for keeping audiences on the edge of their seats.
Having previously collaborated on ‘This Is Us’, Brown commended Fogelman’s writing by revealing that the script for ‘Paradise’ was specifically tailored with him in mind. The actor shared his admiration for Fogelman’s storytelling prowess, emphasising that each script exceeded his expectations. Brown spoke fondly of his friendship with Fogelman and expressed gratitude for being surrounded by talented and kind individuals in the industry.
Reflecting on the filming experience, Brown highlighted the nostalgia of shooting at Paramount Studios in Los Angeles, the same location where ‘This Is Us’ was filmed. The familiarity of the crew and the setting added to the comfort and excitement of reuniting with old colleagues in a new project. Brown likened the experience to a family vacation, where familiar faces embark on a new adventure together, creating a perfect reunion.
Looking ahead, Brown is hopeful that ‘Paradise’ will resonate with viewers on a deeper level, inspiring them and fostering a sense of connection. The actor expressed his desire to portray complex emotions authentically, with the hope that audiences will find solace and understanding in the characters’ journeys. As the series unfolds, Brown aims to deliver powerful performances that reflect the intricacies of human experiences.
‘Paradise’ premiered its first episode on Hulu, with subsequent episodes scheduled for release on Tuesday, Jan. 28. Fans can expect more twists and turns as the show continues to unravel its gripping storyline. Brown’s collaboration with Fogelman promises an exciting and compelling narrative that will keep viewers engaged and eager for more.
In conclusion, Sterling K. Brown’s candid insights into the thrilling narrative of ‘Paradise’ offer a glimpse into the intricate world created by Dan Fogelman. As viewers immerse themselves in this gripping political thriller, they can anticipate a captivating journey filled with suspense, intrigue, and unexpected revelations.