Joshua Rivera
Updated on: October 10, 2024 3:27 pm GMT
Jeff Bridges Reflects on Returning to ‘The Old Man’ in Season 2
In a time when nostalgia for beloved characters often brews, Jeff Bridges is back, reprising his role as retired CIA agent Dan Chase in the highly anticipated second season of FX’s hit series, The Old Man. Premiering Thursday, September 12, at 10 p.m. EDT on FX and streaming on Hulu, the show promises to take viewers deeper into the complex world of espionage and family ties, showcasing Bridges’ enduring talent in a character that has captured hearts.
A Compelling Character Revived
Bridges, now 74, found the return to Dan Chase both invigorating and reminiscent of some of his earlier roles. At a recent Television Critics Association event in Pasadena, California, he admitted that stepping back into the shoes of this character reminded him of two iconic roles he’d love to revisit: “Starman” and “The Dude” from The Big Lebowski. In Starman, Bridges portrayed an alien who leaves a widow pregnant before heading back to his home planet, while in The Big Lebowski, he played a laid-back slacker entangled in a convoluted plot.
“I’d love to follow up on those characters,” Bridges said, revealing his fond connections to these roles.
Caption: Jeff Bridges returns as Dan Chase in Season 2 of FX’s The Old Man, showcasing both his acting prowess and personal journey.
A Unique Exploration of Sequels
Unlike traditional movie sequels which offer a defined beginning, middle, and end, Bridges described the unpredictability of a series like The Old Man. “In a show like this, I don’t know what’s going to happen, just like you guys,” he said, highlighting the ongoing narrative complexity of television shows.
The plot for season two continues exploring Chase’s relationship with his daughter, Emily, played by Alia Shawkat, who is now embroiled in a potentially dangerous situation with her biological father, Faraz Hamzad, portrayed by Navid Negahban. This conflict puts Chase and his erstwhile ally, FBI Assistant Director Harold Harper (John Lithgow), on a mission that forces them to confront not only external threats but their own emotional complexities as well.
Bridging Past and Present
Bridges is no stranger to the evolution of television, growing up in a show business family. His father, Lloyd Bridges, was a television icon, and Jeff has seen the industry transform dramatically over the years. Reflecting on this change, he noted, “I don’t see any difference between film and television now,” emphasizing the high quality of storytelling and production value currently seen in series.
He also shared his personal journey with health challenges during the production of the first season. Bridges underwent chemotherapy after discovering a tumor in his stomach and faced additional complications due to COVID-19. Yet, his determination shone as he described needing to regain his strength for personal milestones, such as walking his daughter down the aisle at her wedding.
Behind the Scenes Insights
Preparing for the role of Chase requires more than just acting chops; it involves understanding the nuances of being a former spy. Bridges works closely with Christopher Huttleston, a former CIA operative who serves as a consultant on the show, adding authenticity to Chase’s character.
Bridges drew parallels between this role and his previous work with his brother, Beau Bridges, in The Fabulous Baker Boys. “Because we are brothers, we could just relax about it, and the same goes for this show,” he explained, emphasizing how ease in portraying interpersonal dynamics often leads to more authentic performances.
Current Context and Viewer Reception
As viewers gear up for The Old Man Season 2, they might recall the mixed reviews of the first season. While it started strong, the series faced criticism for its storytelling quality as the season progressed. Early reviews for Season 2 are somewhat more optimistic, with many noting improvements over some of the struggles from the initial season. The watchers’ reactions suggest a desire for deeper character exploration and coherent plot developments.
Bridges’ connection with Lithgow’s character is highlighted as one of the season’s stronger points, and many fans are eagerly anticipating the chemistry and revelations that will unfold.
Conclusion
Jeff Bridges continues to captivate audiences with his multifaceted portrayal of Dan Chase, and the upcoming season of The Old Man promises not just a thrilling narrative but also an exploration of issues like family loyalty, resilience, and the grey areas of morality in the world of espionage. As viewers prepare to follow Chase’s next chapter, they can expect to witness both thrilling action and profound character development in the ever-evolving landscape of modern television storytelling.
Fans can watch *The Old Man* this Thursday at 10 p.m. EDT on FX. If you miss it, don’t worry! You can stream the episodes the next day.
