Irish actor Sam Keeley recently shared his challenging experience of learning the Philadelphia accent for his role in HBO’s series “Task.” The 34-year-old actor, best known for his roles in various films and TV shows, opened up to PEOPLE at the premiere of the new series in New York City on Sept. 4, describing the process as a “nightmare.”
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Task is set in Delaware County, Pennsylvania, and stars Keeley as motorcycle gang member Jayson alongside Mark Ruffalo, who plays FBI agent Tom Brandis. Keeley had to immerse himself in the distinct “Delco” dialect of the region to portray his character authentically. He credited dialect coach Susanne Sulby for helping him master the nuances of the accent, which he found to be incredibly specific and challenging.
The actor expressed his initial struggles with grasping the cadence and rhythm of the Philly dialect until he arrived in the city. Keeley admitted that without the guidance of his dialect coach, he would not have been able to capture the essence of the Delco accent effectively. He emphasised the importance of understanding the unique vowel sounds and language patterns to embody the character realistically.
Keeley highlighted the pivotal role of Susanne Sulby in shaping his performance, acknowledging her expertise and dedication in coaching him through the intricacies of the accent. He emphasised that his ability to sound authentic in the role was a direct result of her guidance and support, underscoring the importance of accent training in portraying characters convincingly on screen.
In addition to Keeley, his Task co-star Tom Pelphrey also faced the challenge of mastering the Philadelphia accent for his character Robbie Prendergast in the series. Pelphrey, 43, echoed Keeley’s sentiments, describing the accent as a “great challenge” that required him to work diligently with their coach, Susanne Sulby. Both actors commended Sulby for her expertise and continuous support throughout the filming process.
Task follows the storyline of FBI agent Tom Brandis investigating a series of violent robberies in the Philadelphia suburbs, delving into the complexities of the criminal underworld. The series has garnered attention for its gripping narrative and compelling performances, with a talented ensemble cast delivering captivating portrayals under the direction of Mark Ruffalo and Tom Pelphrey.
The premiere of Task on HBO on Sept. 7 marked the beginning of a thrilling journey for viewers as they follow the characters through a web of mystery and intrigue. The show has received acclaim for its immersive storytelling and authentic portrayal of the Philadelphia setting, bringing the vibrant city to life on screen through the dedicated efforts of the cast and crew.
As Task continues to unfold its gripping storyline, audiences can look forward to exploring the depths of the characters’ journeys and the intricacies of the Philadelphia accent that add depth and authenticity to the narrative. Keeley and Pelphrey’s dedication to mastering the Delco dialect serves as a testament to their commitment to delivering compelling performances that resonate with viewers, making Task a must-watch series for fans of gripping crime dramas.
In conclusion, Sam Keeley’s candid revelations about the challenges of learning the Philadelphia accent for Task shed light on the meticulous preparation and dedication required to bring a character to life authentically. The actor’s journey in mastering the Delco dialect alongside his co-stars and dialect coach exemplifies the commitment to excellence in portrayals that elevate the storytelling experience for audiences. Task stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of the cast and crew in creating a gripping and immersive series that enthralled viewers with its suspenseful narrative and compelling performances.