Adam Devine of ‘The Righteous Gemstones’ on Kelvin’s Big Moment and Doing His Own Stunts: ‘It Looked Like an Alien Was Trying to Escape My Body’

by

Attention Cinema Lovers!: Here’s a heads-up: The discussion below delves into spoilers for Season 4, Episode 7 of “The Righteous Gemstones,” titled “For Jealousy Is the Rage of a Man.” Don’t miss it on Max!

Adam Devine’s character, Kelvin Gemstone from HBO’s “The Righteous Gemstones,” hasn’t typically been the main focus. However, with Danny McBride’s religious family action-comedy wrapping up after four seasons and being known as the funniest show of its kind on TV, it seems that Kelvin is finally stepping into the limelight.

Or:

Kelvin Gemstone, played by Adam Devine in “The Righteous Gemstones,” hasn’t been the center of attention until now. With Danny McBride’s religious comedy series coming to an end after four seasons and being the only religious family action-comedy on television that consistently makes people laugh, it looks like Kelvin is ready for his time in the spotlight.

Throughout “The Righteous Gemstones,” Kelvin attempted to explore various personas. Initially, he functioned as the immature head of the Gemstone megachurch’s youth group. Later on, he found an outlet for his subdued inclinations by leading a muscular fellowship, the God Squad, which had a hint of homosexual overtones. He then formed the Smut Busters, a band of puritanical vigilantes with a dislike for all things sexual. The climax of Season 3 saw him accepting his authentic self, confessing his deep-rooted feelings for Keefe, a former Satanist and Kelvin’s trusted associate.

However, although the Gemstones accept Kelvin and his revelation, the broader world, especially adversary preacher Vance Simkins, has been less supportive, particularly since Vance publicly criticizes Kelvin on live TV. In this week’s episode titled “For Jealousy is the Rage of a Man,” we find Kelvin confined in his extravagant childhood treehouse. It isn’t until Jesse and Judy, his siblings who can fly with jet packs, encourage him that Kelvin decides to confront Vance. He seizes Vance’s trophy and delivers a passionate speech in a shimmering suit during a crucial moment.

According to Devine, this updated Kelvin is really enjoying himself. He’s taking pleasure in being bold and outspoken. In an interview with EbMaster before the series finale, Devine discussed Kelvin’s character as a gay evangelical, why his siblings had to intervene, and why he didn’t enjoy performing stunts using jet packs, calling it his ‘difficult personality’.

I’ve seen your video in the Jennifer Hudson-themed hallway multiple times, making this an especially memorable week for Adam Devine videos.

It received a great deal of affection. I never realized that maintaining a strong spirit could lead to being positively reciprocated by the world.

It was warmly appreciated. I didn’t expect that showing genuine spirit would result in the world showing its appreciation back to me.

What I found intriguing in ‘The Righteous Gemstones’ is how little conflict arises within the family after Kelvin comes out. Can you share your thoughts on how this evangelical Christian family would respond to such a revelation?

I found it incredibly intelligent how [Danny] chose to go in a different direction with Kelvin’s character this season. Many might have anticipated a less affirming outcome given his strong Christian background. However, Danny is known for keeping things under wraps until the scripts are out, only sharing hints here and there. I must admit, I was unsure of where he was heading with it all. But when I finally got my hands on the scripts, I was overjoyed to see that Kelvin’s character was wholeheartedly accepted.

As the series progresses, you get a taste of this acceptance at the end of Season 3, as our characters share a kiss between Kelvin and Keefe. The reaction is not one of shock or disgust but rather a collective sigh of understanding, which I believe sadly mirrors reality less often than we’d like.

In this context, when tension arises in the series, it’s usually instigated by Vance Simkins. It’s intriguing to see Kelvin slightly surprised by such hostility, as one might expect such behavior to be quite foreseeable.

It struck me as interesting! I believed playing it in that manner was intriguing because Kelvin seems so sheltered to me. He’s almost always within his bubble, and I suspect he doesn’t interact much with the outside world. Given that he lives on the compound with his family, and when he goes out, he has protection, I think it surprised him that this was such a significant issue. It made him wonder why not everyone adores him as much as those at his church do. However, considering how things unfolded in the story, I suppose that’s the kind of reaction he would receive. If this were real life, I’m certain others would express their concerns that he was distorting the Bible.

In the course of this production, Kelvin appears to be heavily restrained, and his suppression has been expressed in extraordinary forms such as the God Squad and the Smut Busters. Given that you’re now portraying Kelvin as an openly gay man, is there anything unique about your acting style in this new role?

In my recent portrayal of Kelvin this season, I aimed to convey a sense of freedom and lightness that comes when one embraces their true identity. Previously, Kelvin had been carrying a secret about himself, but now that he’s come out, it feels as if a burden has been lifted. He’s able to be himself more openly, and his demeanor seems freer and brighter. Essentially, he’s enjoying life more and no longer hiding who he is. He’s proud, loud, and unafraid to express himself.

As a film enthusiast, I found myself captivated by the scene where I attempted to draw Keefe from his melancholic state, yet it was his brother Jesse and sister Judy who ultimately managed to reach Kelvin. What made this scene between siblings particularly significant? Well, it underscored the profound bond that exists between them, illustrating their unique ability to empathize and understand each other’s struggles. It served as a poignant reminder of the power of family ties in helping individuals overcome adversity.

From the very beginning, your siblings have been an integral part of your life, and Kelvin, being the youngest, has grown up alongside you. Despite occasional squabbles among them, they serve as his closest companions. The bond between siblings is unique in that they can communicate with each other in ways no one else can. They possess a keen ability to penetrate through the outer layers of your personality and reach the heart of who you truly are. At times, they may hurt you deeply, yet they also have the power to pull you out of the deepest despair because they intimately understand your character. They see beyond the public persona you present to the world, revealing the real you.

You personally did not get to be in the jet pack this episode —

I was so sick of those jet packs!

It looks like a lot.

Typically, I’m thrilled with performing stunts. However, I’m currently experiencing some unusual health issues causing muscle spasms. Removing the jet pack and its harness would trigger these spasms, making me feel as if an alien was trying to burst out of my body every time! It was truly terrifying. Moreover, the equipment weighed about 60 pounds, making it quite heavy. The initial days were particularly challenging, but once we figured out to slide an apple box beneath us each time we landed to alleviate the jetpack’s pressure, things became a bit easier. It took some time to work out the details though. I have immense respect for stunt performers and their ability to endure without complaint. My delicate self was whining, “Can we use an apple box? Can we take a break? I’m sweating. Is this normal? Will it look good on camera?

You really suffered for your art. 

In my own experience, I’ve seen film crews shooting in the wilderness exclaim, “We were freezing!” Just like Leonardo DiCaprio in “The Revenant.” And I find myself contemplating, “Perhaps it’s time to hang up the boots.” If I had to endure such harsh conditions, I might even consider leaving the business altogether.

In terms of the entertaining aspects of costume design, Kelvin’s ensembles have consistently impressed us. However, the sequined suit from this particular episode truly stands out. Would you mind sharing some insights about the costumes used?

[laughing] I guess I’m more of a costume actor, you know?

I really enjoy donning vibrant ensembles. This season, with him being out of the picture, I could let loose and sport some truly outrageous, entertaining outfits. Our costume designer, Christina [Flannery], truly went all out this season, as I was adorning some utterly extravagant attire. It seems people actually purchase these items! I was wearing Balenciaga, which retails for around $4,000. Can you believe that someone would buy a rainbow-hued, essentially, rain coat like the one I’m wearing that makes you sweat excessively due to its non-breathable material? The mere idea of anyone purchasing and wearing it seems preposterous to me; however, it was an absolute blast to wear.

It’s truly remarkable. All this builds up to the heartfelt speech given by Kelvin, an uncommon display of honesty in “The Righteous Gemstones.” The scene is incredibly touching. I’m curious to know how it felt for you to portray that moment.

The speech was incredibly enjoyable, and I aimed for it to be honest and straightforward, not theatrical or overly performed. Since Kelvin, along with other characters, often speaks in public settings like church, some of their speeches can lean towards performance. However, I wanted this one to feel more like a genuine expression of thoughts, as if he were simply sharing what was on his mind. I hope that authenticity came across.

Many individuals associated with the program, such as Danny, hail from the South, while you come from the Midwest. Can you share some insights you’ve gained over the course of four seasons about that region and the evangelical community from watching this show?

I’ve only had substantial time in the South at Louisiana, specifically New Orleans, where my wife hails from. I’ve filmed numerous projects there, and let me tell you, it’s a world apart from the rest of the South. New Orleans is unique, a city unto itself. Delving into the subculture of mega churches was an unexpected delight. I wasn’t sure if I’d take to it, but I found myself enamored. The idea of relocating there crossed my mind. My wife gently reminded me that we reside in California. I countered with the food and hospitality being exceptional down south. Our stay in Charleston was truly memorable. When Danny moved there, around 20 families followed suit. This granted us immediate access to a large circle of friends and family. It felt like a second home, complete with a newfound extended family. The arrival of our son this season made integration even smoother. Suddenly, we were welcomed into that close-knit friend group. And if ever in need of a babysitter, we had numerous contacts to reach out to, which proved quite enjoyable and convenient.

I’m in the process of attempting to create a film with [Rough House], and I believe they would make excellent collaborators for this project. Additionally, I’m looking forward to the opportunity to revisit Charleston and work alongside these individuals again. Frankly, I know I’ll miss them dearly.

What’s it been like to say goodbye to this show after five years?

It’s a mix of joy and sadness. It seems we’ve been on this journey for around six years, moving towards seven now. We kicked things off with the pilot, and it’s taken us through a pandemic, several strikes, and along the way, these individuals have become like family to me. Typically, at this time of year, we would be preparing to return to Charleston. It’s hard to accept that we won’t be making that journey this time, and I’ll deeply miss them and what they’ve created. Finding something as enjoyable and thrilling with a team equal to Danny Gordon Green, David Gordon Green, Jody Hill, and the entire Rough House crew will be quite challenging. To me, they are among my comedy idols, residing on my personal Mount Rushmore of comedic legends. When I received the call that Danny was interested in me for his brother’s role, I said yes without hesitation, even before knowing what the show was about. I had just come off of “Workaholics,” and I wasn’t keen on diving into TV immediately. I wanted something fresh. But when they told me about this project, I eagerly agreed, saying, “Yes, whatever it is, I’m in.

Read More

2025-04-21 08:49