Tom Blyth has recently delved into his experiences on the “slightly dark” final season of the hit show ‘Billy the Kid’, revealing insights about the series that kickstarted his acting career. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, the British actor, aged 30, shares his thoughts on bidding farewell to the iconic outlaw character that has been a significant part of his journey in the entertainment industry.
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Reflecting on his final portrayal of Billy the Kid in the third and concluding season of the MGM+ show, Blyth expresses a mix of emotions as he closes this chapter of his career. Having embodied the character since 2022, Blyth acknowledges the impact the series has had on his professional trajectory, leading him to other notable projects such as The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes and People We Meet on Vacation.
Season 3 of ‘Billy the Kid’ premiered on September 28, marking the culmination of Blyth’s portrayal of the legendary figure from the Old West. The actor describes the experience as bittersweet, acknowledging the show’s role in propelling his career forward. He expresses gratitude towards his involvement with the series and the team behind it, recognising the significance of ‘Billy the Kid’ in shaping his acting journey.
Despite starring in multiple films during breaks between ‘Billy the Kid’ seasons, Blyth found it a seamless transition to step back into his character for the final season. Immersing himself physically and mentally into the role, Blyth credits elements like wardrobe and filming locations in Canada for aiding him in embodying the outlaw persona effortlessly for the last time.
Throughout the interview, Blyth highlights the evolution of Billy the Kid over the seasons, noting a shift in the character’s motivations and actions. He describes season 3’s Billy as a more vengeful and darker version, deviating from the idealistic portrayal in earlier seasons, thereby adding depth and complexity to the iconic figure.
In addition to discussing his character’s growth, Blyth acknowledges his personal development alongside the role. He recognises the parallel journey of maturation between himself and Billy the Kid, embracing the changes in both their personas as the series progressed over the years.
Furthermore, Blyth sheds light on his dedication to performing his stunts on the show, estimating his involvement in about 90% of the action sequences. Embracing the physical challenges of the role, including horseback riding and stunt work, the actor expresses a keen interest in continuing such hands-on experiences in future projects.
Looking ahead, Blyth reveals his excitement for the upcoming premiere of People We Meet on Vacation, a Netflix adaptation based on a popular novel. Additionally, he expresses a desire to explore genres like sci-fi, showcasing his versatility and readiness to take on diverse roles beyond his time as Billy the Kid.
As Blyth concludes his journey portraying Billy the Kid, he leaves behind a legacy of dedication and growth, both personally and professionally. With new projects on the horizon and a wealth of experiences from his time on the show, the actor remains poised for the next chapter in his evolving acting career.
In conclusion, Tom Blyth’s reflections on the final season of ‘Billy the Kid’ provide a glimpse into the transformative impact of the series on his life and career. As he bids adieu to this defining role, his journey continues to unfold, promising exciting opportunities and new horizons in the world of entertainment.