Gary Oldman returns to Apple TV+ with ‘Slow Horses’ season four
A balancing act between ’Slow Horses’ and ‘Oppenheimer’
Gary Oldman is back on Apple TV+ with the much-anticipated fourth season of his Emmy-nominated drama, Slow Horses. His portrayal of the gruff and enigmatic Jackson Lamb has captivated audiences, but this ongoing role almost jeopardized his reunion with director Christopher Nolan on the film Oppenheimer.
Oldman, who previously collaborated with Nolan as Detective James “Jim” Gordon in the Batman trilogy, took on the role of U.S. President Harry S. Truman in Nolan’s latest Oscar-winning drama. However, the commitment to his character in “Slow Horses” meant he had to negotiate some unique conditions with Nolan.
“This role is a bit different because I’m tethered to it, even during breaks,” Oldman shared. “It dictates if I can take on other projects.” He added, “I did a day on ‘Oppenheimer.’ I told Chris Nolan, ‘I’d love to do it, but I have to wear a prosthetic cap and a wig because I can’t cut my hair. If you can deal with that, I’m in. If not, you’ll need someone else.’ Jackson Lamb is never far away in that sense.”
The evolution of an actor’s perspective
Reflecting on his career, Oldman drew a parallel with a famous musician. “I remember John Lennon once said he hated his voice and always wanted to put some effect on it or double the vocal. He even said, ‘I’d just burn all the records and start over.’ I get that. I don’t revisit my old work. If someone asked me about my best work, I’d say, ‘Next season.'”
Nolan agreed to Oldman’s conditions, allowing the two to reunite for ”Oppenheimer.” This collaboration is a testament to the mutual respect and understanding between the actor and the director.
A career saved by iconic roles
During an appearance on “The Drew Barrymore Show” last year, Oldman expressed his gratitude for the roles in the “Harry Potter” and “Batman” franchises, which he credits with saving his career. Before being cast as Sirius Black and Jim Gordon, Oldman faced a challenging period both personally and professionally.
“At 42, I woke up divorced with custody of my boys,” Oldman recounted. “It was tough because many productions were moving to places like Hungary, Budapest, Prague, and Australia. I turned down a lot of work.”
He continued, “Thank God for ‘Harry Potter.’ Thank God for ‘Harry Potter.’ Those roles in ‘Batman’ and ‘Harry Potter’ saved me. They allowed me to do the least amount of work for the most amount of money, so I could be home with my kids.”
The enduring appeal of ’Slow Horses’
The fourth season of Slow Horses has just premiered on Apple TV+, and fans are eager to see what new challenges await Jackson Lamb and his team. The series, based on the novels by Mick Herron, has been praised for its sharp writing, complex characters, and Oldman’s standout performance.
For those who haven’t yet experienced the gritty world of “Slow Horses,” now is the perfect time to dive in. The series offers a refreshing take on the spy genre, blending dark humor with intense drama. Oldman’s portrayal of Lamb is both captivating and nuanced, making it a must-watch for fans of quality television.
Personal reflections for cinema and TV enthusiasts
As a cinema and TV series enthusiast, it’s fascinating to see how actors like Gary Oldman navigate their careers and personal lives. His ability to balance demanding roles while maintaining a strong presence in his children’s lives is commendable. It also highlights the importance of iconic roles in shaping an actor’s career trajectory.
For those who appreciate in-depth character studies and complex narratives, “Slow Horses” is a treasure trove. The series delves into the lives of disgraced MI5 agents, offering a unique perspective on the world of espionage. Oldman’s Jackson Lamb is a character you can’t help but root for, despite his many flaws.
Final thoughts
Gary Oldman’s return to Apple TV+ with the fourth season of “Slow Horses” is a testament to his enduring talent and versatility as an actor. His ability to seamlessly transition between different roles, even under challenging circumstances, is a testament to his dedication and skill. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to his work, there’s no better time to explore the rich tapestry of characters he brings to life on screen.
For more information and to watch the trailer, visit Slow Horses.