Jason Isaacs Wants Meryl Streep to Play Lucius Malfoy in HBO Harry Potter Series

Here’s a Spoiler Warning: In the latest episode (Season 3, Episode 6) of “The White Lotus” currently streaming on Max, I found myself utterly stunned by the shocking twist!

Jason Isaacs arrived a bit later than scheduled for our Zoom chat, due to him engaging in an extended conversation with another reporter.

The ‘White Lotus’ actor admits he tends to talk excessively,” he says. “I understand they prefer concise responses, but somehow I end up talking more, ensnared in a verbal trap I’ve unwittingly created myself.

Before we dive into our conversation, he takes notice of the numerous Polaroid photos adorning my wall, and then queries curiously: “With six episodes watched, do you think anyone meets their end?” I share my thoughts on the matter, to which he responds with a grin: “Your theory is quite intriguing. However, I’m rather skilled at poker. You won’t be able to guess it from me.” (As a movie enthusiast)

In Season 3 of the HBO dramedy, there’s a possible clue about the character who ends up deceased. According to Isaacs, the series creator Mike White doesn’t stick to traditional justice, as he explained, “He’s not like Agatha Christie.” Instead, he added, “It’s not about the person we want to die being the one who does, by popular vote. He does whatever catches his interest.

In this extensive interview, Isaac delves into his portrayal of Timothy Ratliff, a Southern patriarch whose life spirals out of control during a vacation in Thailand. This is triggered by the exposure of some questionable business practices and an FBI raid on his office. To shield his family from the chaos, Timothy conceals the truth, with wife Victoria (Parker Posey) and children Saxon (Patrick Schwarzenegger), Piper (Sarah Catherine Hook), and Lochlan (Sam Nivola) being unaware of the situation. However, as events worsen, Timothy contemplates suicide and excessively uses Victoria’s Lorazepam.

When it finally hits him that there’s no escape, his mind becomes frantic, and he’s desperate to silence the chaos — so he begins consuming his wife’s medication,” Isaacs explains. By Episode 6, he’s listening to his children and wife discuss their future, but he knows that none of it can come true. The life they’ve known is gone forever. If his wife wants to buy food, she’ll have to work at Gap folding T-shirts.

Isaac shares some intriguing insights about the climactic episodes of the season, hinting at a significant reckoning. He also talks about the intense emotional dynamics on set, comparing it to a pressure cooker of human behavior. Moreover, he recounts a gruesome injury sustained during filming that left him feeling like his head had exploded with blood. Lastly, he offers his thoughts on who might take over as Lucius Malfoy in HBO‘s upcoming “Harry Potter” series.

Timothy has been spiraling for six episodes. As an actor, how exactly do you calibrate and pace that unraveling?

The issue I was most concerned about when reading the scripts was finding an engaging way to convey the varying levels of this problem to the audience without using words, as I feared it might become monotonous. I consulted my brother, a psychiatrist, regarding the effects of taking Lorazepam, and he explained that I would simply fall asleep. I responded, “That’s not intriguing; what else can you tell me?” To which he replied, “There’s nothing more.” I collaborated with Mike White on the phone conversations, as they were portrayed in the show as a greater challenge than initially depicted in the scripts. In the series, it becomes apparent that there is no escape, and lawyers cannot assist him. I wanted to delay this occurrence because the character has such resources that he’s always been able to manipulate the legal system and suppress stories.

To put it in simpler terms, how can I adjust or set it up correctly? I tried to imagine various scenarios such as a crack, a fissure, a pothole, and an abyss while working on this project. Mike provided some guidance for me, and it was quite challenging to delve into those emotional depths as an actor without disrupting the other performers or overstepping the boundaries of the “method.” In essence, I had to portray a character who is contemplating suicide and homicide, pushing myself to the limits of human experience.

How do you get to those places, inhabiting a guy who puts a gun to his head?

As time goes by, I prefer not to make any plans ahead. Just moments before we begin, I strive to keep my mind clear and open, inviting my subconscious thoughts, or “Tim,” to take over. When it’s necessary to feel deep emotions, I attempt to focus on the feelings my character is experiencing rather than dwelling on personal experiences like the loss of a beloved pet. Different people have various methods for getting into character; some immerse themselves completely, some use painful reminders like walking on broken glass, and others look at photos of deceased loved ones. My method is to clear my mind and hope that inspiration strikes me.

Have you actually heard of other actors putting glass in their shoes?

I’ve heard tales about actors inflicting pain on themselves or making themselves weak for their roles, such as Sir Laurence Olivier mocking Dustin Hoffman after he stayed up all night by asking him, “Why don’t you just try acting?” Frankly, I don’t care what methods Dustin Hoffman used. He was outstanding in “Marathon Man.” Similarly, I don’t mind Daniel Day-Lewis’s antics – I enjoy watching him perform them. Personally, I don’t engage in such practices; I simply believe that if the writing is strong enough, the performance will follow naturally.

How does living in the hotel where you’re filming affect that process?

Living apart for seven months in a shared building with everyone involved in the production can make many people feel disconnected, especially since they’re far from home and their usual social norms. It doesn’t seem to impact the work significantly, but relationships form quickly. As time passes, life can start feeling like a never-ending loop, much like in the movie “Groundhog Day.” I had more downtime than any other location work I’ve done, with “Peter Pan” lasting 14 months, but I was there every day. On “The White Lotus,” though, I wasn’t working about 80% of the time. So, I grew particularly close to Patrick, Sam, and Sarah Catherine, and we went on countless trips together. Before my wife joined me, they provided me company when I felt lonely. Despite having a large villa with a butler and my own pool, I was quite isolated. It looked impressive when I video-called friends, but in reality, it was isolating. So, they visited every day, making us feel like family. However, spending so much time with the same people for an extended period can create immense pressure and bring out unique aspects of human behavior. Many experiences were had, some leading down intriguing paths. Essentially, there was an off-screen “White Lotus” as well as the on-screen one, but as Mike wrote in the show, “What happens in Thailand stays in Thailand.

Some of your co-stars have mentioned the intense heat, food poisoning and insects.

It seems some folks view our trip as a vacation, dreaming of a fortnight in Thailand with poolside lounging or snorkeling adventures. However, our experience has been quite different. While we did indulge in a few massages at the start, it’s not all relaxation when you’re filming in sweltering 100-degree heat. It’s like frying eggs and dissolving teeth, with an oppressive stickiness that permeates everything. Add to that the teeming insects and interior filming scenes under hot studio lights for up to 13 hours. It’s a challenge just to stay alert and catch your breath, as people are collapsing from the heat. I’m not trying to downplay our Thailand adventure, but it wasn’t the idyllic getaway many might envision.

You and your “White Lotus” family watched Bravo’s “Southern Charm” for inspiration. People believe you modeled your character off of Thomas Ravenel, the show’s former cast member who is from a very rich Charleston, South Carolina family.

Interestingly, some of my co-stars believe that I may have had a hand in this. Prior to our production, Mike actually sent me Thomas to examine. What makes him intriguing is his background – he’s from an affluent family, yet his accent doesn’t quite fit the mold. The melodic aspect of his accent is acceptable; it’s significantly distinct on “Southern Charm” compared to when he was running for political office. However, a Durham accent and a Thomas-like one have two completely different vowel sounds. They feature a diphthong and a short ‘O’ sound. In the end, it was the unique blend of his vocal rhythm and air of entitlement, as well as certain Durham politicians who possessed the influence and power I needed for Tim’s character, that drew me to him.

What did you think when you first heard Parker Posey’s accent?

In simpler terms, you’re currently in Durham, North Carolina, and your wife could choose to do anything since we don’t know where she originated from for our marriage. She seems to be under the influence of drugs. I decided to cast Parker for a role that would be extremely entertaining. Mike was frequently laughing hysterically at everything Parker said and urged us to perform even more exaggerated actions behind the camera.

Did she ever make you break?

In my critique, I must confess that this character didn’t elicit tears from me, for I found myself mirroring Tim, the protagonist, in his most miserable Christmas ever. Off-camera, I couldn’t help but chuckle at her antics, a testament to her unique ability to inject humor into even the grimmest of situations.

What are the logistics of filming phone call scenes? Who were you talking to?

No one! It’s incredibly challenging. Phone acting is a highly specialized talent. At times, there was an assistant director addressing me, but mostly it was just me because I was too distant from the camera. Six months later, I found myself conversing with Ke Huy Quan or Scott Galloway on the phone. I visited Scott Galloway’s apartment in New York and guided him through every word of it, as he is a brilliant individual but not an experienced actor. It was difficult to assist them because I had deviated quite frequently from the script, so I needed to recall my dialogue for them to record snippets that would fit and create the illusion of a natural conversation.

You helped him record his side of the call?

Indeed, he has a studio in New York City for his podcast with Kara Swisher, and we needed to record there, which meant she had to wait. The process took longer than anticipated since he’s not an experienced actor. I aimed to elicit spontaneous responses from him instead of reading prewritten lines. I told him, “I’m not directing you; just do what feels right.” He replied, “But you were part of the scene.” In essence, I was trying to replicate my initial performance six months later and in a different location so he would have something to respond to.

Why does Timothy have such a visceral hatred for Walton Goggins’ character, Rick?

Initially, the Johnson family usually prefers solitary travel in private aircrafts, landing at exclusive estates staffed privately. So, it’s quite a change for them as Timothy finds himself in Thailand. There was an edited-out line where they asked, “How did your trip go?” To which I replied, “It was extensive; I took a commercial flight to save the environment.” Essentially, he seems to take pride in this commoner experience. Mingling with people of lower social status is a concession for him. Furthermore, Rick disregarded boundaries by smoking around me and getting aggressive towards my child. He’s a dominant character, Timothy. He’s essentially the epitome of machismo from Durham. This guy was being rude to him, but Timothy doesn’t tolerate such behavior. He’s trying to be cordial, and this individual just disrespected him. He doesn’t allow such disrespect.

How did you approach bringing warmth to Timothy? My first impression of Tim was: Clearly he’s been up to some shady stuff, but I can’t help but like him!

He adores his children. He’s generally kind-hearted and affable. He isn’t like Rick, who is often grouchy, resentful, and quick to anger about various things. He’s not a bad person. Even with Pam, he rarely loses his temper easily. I’d much rather have Tim over Rick for dinner.

Do you think his turn toward spirituality…

You think he turns toward spirituality? That’s interesting.

Well, he’s looking for answers from a monk, no?

He’s pondering on the nature of death as he contemplates his own demise or taking someone else’s life. Is death a better alternative than this current situation? He feels trapped with no other options. The monk offers him solace, saying that in death, one is showered (sprayed up) and separated from people, but then reunited with humanity. This thought provides some comfort to him, as he’s spent most of his life feeling superior to others. However, the impending event looming is something truly dreadful. Therefore, I don’t believe this is a turn towards spirituality, but rather a welcome response to his predicament.

Do you think religion or spirituality is part of Tim’s past?

He may appear to follow the rituals, like attending church regularly, but I have my doubts about his sincerity. I don’t believe he holds genuine faith; instead, he seems to prioritize wealth, influence, and social standing. The monk’s advice brings him some comfort, yet all that crosses his mind is, “What will become of me when I die?

Which of Tim’s kids does he respect the most?

It’s uncertain if he truly respects any of them, but he adores Piper because she’s his daughter and he has an outdated perspective on gender roles. I suspect he finds Saxon’s desperation to imitate him endearing, though it seems misguided. He cherishes him for this trait, yet it feels awkward. He struggles in his father’s shadow while attempting to be as powerful with multiple women – consider Timothy, still married to the woman he met at a debutante ball. And he regards Lochlan with confusion, questioning what he could have done to deserve such treatment. He views him as a loser due to his physical appearance and lifestyle, which has always been considered undesirable in Tim’s world. Perhaps “respect” isn’t the correct term. They’re his children, and you love your kids. However, the question remains, when adversity strikes, will any of them be able to handle it? Who among them may face the greatest hardship as a result of this?

What would he think about his two sons getting, uh… intimate with each other?

I’m not one to guess about events that haven’t occurred. That’s simply not his way of thinking. After all, considering such matters with our own kids seems quite unusual, doesn’t it? It’s safe to say most people wouldn’t entertain that idea.

Sam Nivola told me you walked through a glass door while shooting the boat scenes.

Actually, what I said isn’t accurate. Instead of walking into a glass door, I collided with it forcefully using my forehead. The impact was strong enough to render me unconscious for a short while. A second assistant director was there to witness this incident and informed me that I was out cold for some time. To be honest, I doubt what you’re saying is true. When I went to work, they noticed I had cut my head and asked me about it. I tried to cover my injury by placing my hand over my face. They then told me my head had been severely injured, Jason Statham was their words. I looked in the mirror and saw a large gash with blood flowing profusely. Clearly, I wouldn’t be able to work immediately. We did manage to shoot later on, but they had to digitally remove the wound from the footage due to its severity. Remarkably, this wound healed much faster than any other injuries I sustained during that humid period – even scabs took seven months to disappear. However, this specific injury on my head, which went down to the bone, healed much more quickly.

Well, I’m glad you’re OK.

During our movie promotion event, all the actors gathered together for numerous interviews, and curious fans often enquired, “Is there any amusing anecdote from the filming location?” Interestingly, everyone seemed to have a humorous tale related to the time when Jason accidentally injured himself.

I’m sure you know HBO is making a “Harry Potter” TV series. Who would you cast to play Lucius Malfoy if you were in charge?

Meryl Streep. She can do anything, that woman. There’s literally no limit to what she can do.

What advice would you have for anyone stepping into a role on a franchise of that caliber?

I don’t think I could offer any help, given the situation. After all, I’m familiar with some of the potential cast members. They are truly exceptional talents, and I have no doubt that the production will be remarkable. frankly, they probably don’t need guidance from someone like me, who is merely an old-timer.

This interview has been edited and condensed.

2025-03-24 18:59