In a recent interview with PEOPLE, actor Gil Birmingham, renowned for his role as Billy Black in the iconic Twilight films, reflected on the enduring legacy of the franchise as it marks its 20th anniversary. The 72-year-old actor expressed his gratitude for being part of a series that has had a profound impact on fans around the world.
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Birmingham, who portrayed the father of Jacob Black, played by Taylor Lautner, shared his astonishment at the continued enthusiasm surrounding the franchise. “I often think about how fortunate I was to be involved,” he noted, highlighting the unpredictability of any project and the unexpected fervour that can arise. Looking back, Birmingham acknowledged the joy of seeing a resurgence of interest in the film series, which initially debuted in 2008 and concluded with Breaking Dawn Part 2 in 2012.
He recounted an experience from a convention he attended last year, where he was met with an overwhelming turnout. “There were 1,500 fans from all over the world, still as passionate about the franchise as they were during its creation,” he said, illustrating the lasting impact of the series on its audience. The Twilight saga, which is based on Stephenie Meyer’s best-selling novels, went on to gross over $3 billion globally over its four-year run.
Birmingham’s portrayal of Billy Black not only endeared him to fans but also kept him connected with his former co-stars. He mentioned catching up with fellow cast members such as Peter Facinelli and Kellan Lutz at conventions. “I often see them from time to time,” he shared, further solidifying the bond formed during the filming of the series.
As he continues to navigate his acting career, Birmingham is currently starring as Thomas Rainwater in the Yellowstone spin-off series Marshals. This role has allowed him to delve into themes of representation and community, which he believes are essential in modern storytelling. “I love the character of Rainwater and the dynamics developed within the community,” he expressed, underlining his passion for the role.
The show follows Luke Grimes as Kayce Dutton, who collaborates with a team of U.S. Marshals in Montana. Birmingham highlighted the importance of addressing real-world issues through the narrative. “We tackle important subjects such as environmental concerns, conflicts with local communities, and the plight related to missing and murdered indigenous women,” he explained. This focus on topical issues reflects the series’ commitment to authenticity and relevance.
Birmingham’s partnership with Yellowstone creator Taylor Sheridan dates back a decade, starting with their collaboration on the film Hell or High Water, in which Birmingham also appeared. This long-standing working relationship has evidently flourished, allowing the actor to engage with meaningful storytelling once more.
With the first season of Marshals having premiered on March 1 on CBS and Paramount+, Birmingham is eager for audiences to engage with the series. The actor’s remarks underscore the significance of both the Twilight franchise and his current role, demonstrating how his career has evolved while remaining rooted in projects that resonate with viewers.
As the Twilight saga continues to garner attention two decades later, Birmingham remains a cherished figure for fans of the series, embodying the heartfelt connections that stories can forge across generations.