Taron Egerton Dishes on Cut Karaoke Scene in “Smoke”, Says He Was ‘Maybe Like 30%’ Elton John (Exclusive)

Actor Taron Egerton reveals details about a cut karaoke scene in the series ‘Smoke’

Taron Egerton, known for his role as Elton John in the movie “Rocketman,” recently disclosed information about a cut karaoke scene from the Apple TV+ series ‘Smoke.’ The actor shared that the scene did not make the final cut due to not feeling suitable for his character. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE at the Tribeca Festival premiere of the show, Egerton mentioned that while he brought his singing skills to the scene, going “full Elton John” didn’t seem appropriate. Despite being enthusiastic about the opportunity, he felt that being true to his character was more crucial.

The revelation about the removed karaoke scene was first brought to light by actor Rafe Spall, who co-stars in ‘Smoke’ as detective Steven Burke. Spall shared his admiration for Egerton and recalled a moment on set when Egerton’s singing talents shone through, drawing parallels to Elton John. Egerton’s portrayal of arson investigator Dave Gudsen in the series marks a reunion with creator Dennis Lehane, known for works like Black Bird. The dynamic between Egerton’s character and Detective Michelle Calderone, played by Jurnee Smollett, as they chase down serial arsonists adds depth to the show.

While discussing his character Dave’s complexities, Egerton delved into the nuances of portraying a villain on screen. He highlighted the immediate toxicity exhibited by Dave, contrasting the common perception of cunning and scheming villains. The actor’s insights into his character’s psyche offer viewers a glimpse into the intricate storytelling woven into ‘Smoke.’ The rest of the ensemble cast, including Ntare Guma Mbaho Mwine, Anna Chlumsky, Greg Kinnear, and John Leguizamo, contribute to the show’s rich tapestry of characters and plotlines.

Show creator Dennis Lehane mentioned a karaoke scene where Egerton sang Peter Cetera’s ‘The Glory of Love,’ showcasing his vocal abilities. While the scene did not make it to the final edit, Lehane commended Egerton’s dedication and performance. Egerton, on the other hand, expressed relief at the scene’s omission, citing a lack of alignment with his character’s arc. Despite his background as a singer, Egerton prioritised the integrity of Dave’s character over showcasing his vocal prowess in the series.

The premiere of ‘Smoke’ at the Tribeca Festival offered insights into the collaborative effort behind the show’s production. From the camaraderie shared on set to the creative decisions taken during filming, the cast and crew worked diligently to bring the story to life. As the series unfolds on Apple TV+, viewers can expect a blend of suspense, drama, and character-driven narratives that delve into the complexities of human behaviour. With Egerton’s nuanced portrayal at its core, ‘Smoke’ promises a compelling exploration of morality, justice, and redemption in the midst of fiery circumstances.