Dangerous Threat – Minority Mindset

In the third season of Foundation, the introduction of The Mule will significantly impact the characters and their stories, as his menace is not to be overlooked. For those unaware, The Mule is a significant antagonist. In the source material, he’s an exceptionally potent mentalic mutant with the psychic power to control the emotions of other humans.

In a chat with Russ Milheim from TopMob, the actors Lou Llobel, Jared Harris, Lee Pace, and Laura Birn from the show “Foundation” shared insights on how the menace of The Mule impacts each of their characters’ storylines.

Lou Llobel hinted that “all attention focuses on him as the primary menace,” essentially meaning that he has become “the greatest danger” they all face. Previously, The Foundation and The Empire were adversaries, but now they share a “common foe.

As a movie enthusiast, I can tell you that Jared Harris shared an intriguing perspective about “The Mule” in which he suggests that it essentially challenges the principles of psychohistory. He further stated that the malevolent warlord and conqueror we encounter in the story is precisely the kind of outlier that Hari Seldon had long feared would eventually materialize.

Regarding Brother Day portrayed by Lee Pace, the actor has disclosed that his character remains oblivious to The Mule’s existence since he is primarily concerned with matters outside of himself. On the other hand, Laura Birn’s Demerzel exhibits vigilance, as she bears the burden of looking after Brother Day.

In addition, the actors shared insights on how their roles transformed and adapted throughout Season 3, as detailed further in the ensuing interviews.

Foundation Season 3 starts streaming on Apple TV+ on July 11, 2025, with weekly episodes after.

The Foundation Cast on How The Mule’s Villainous Arrival Shakes Their Existence

“Everything Is Pointed Towards Him Now…”

TopMob: “Season 3 introduces The Mule as a key villain. How does his introduction and threat upend your character’s world and existence?”

I find myself in a position where all eyes are on him now, as he has become the greatest danger. Previously, the conflict was between The Foundation and the Empire, but now it seems we share a common adversary. This individual is formidable, intimidating, and his unpredictability is overwhelming. Indeed, he’s like the big bad wolf in a story, causing us to tread carefully.

As a movie reviewer, here’s my take on “The Mule”: This film challenges the very foundations of psychohistory. You see, the theory suggests it can predict the behavior of large groups of people. But what if there’s one individual who can manipulate the actions of every person on Earth? At that point, isn’t psychohistory rendered obsolete, or worse yet, a useless tool? So, in essence, “The Mule” is the long-dreaded outlier, the exception to the rule, the very character that has always been feared and now, it seems, has finally materialized.

Lee Pace’s character remains oblivious to The Mule as he shows little interest in events beyond his personal sphere… This season, I portray a lively Cleon who exhibits indifference towards the notion of being an Emperor. Instead, he longs for leisure, indulgence, and self-enjoyment. Meanwhile, the universe and galaxy are experiencing widespread chaos and decay in various aspects.
In this narrative, The Mule emerges unexpectedly as a disruptive element, seemingly appearing from thin air amidst various small-scale political issues that individuals are grappling with. It seems as though everyone must abruptly address these problems, except for the one individual who remains oblivious to the commotion.

Laura Birn suggests that Demerzel is not only vigilant but also bears the weight of responsibility for Brother Day. For her, possessing the ability to anticipate future events, having access to such extensive information, and essentially shaping the destiny of the dynasty and humanity, it’s more than just a duty—it’s her fate. The question remains: if things were to change or even perish, what would become of her? Is it the start of a new chapter, or does it mark the end for her?
She appears to be deeply introspective, reflecting on both past events and future possibilities. There’s a sense of sadness or melancholy about her, as if she’s gradually drawing inward. On the one hand, she seems acutely aware of cosmic happenings, but on the other, she’s immersed in her personal existential struggles. It’s almost like two conflicting forces are tugging at her from different directions.

Laura Birn and Lee Pace on Their Characters’ Season 3 Journey

Demerzel Gets More Responsibility, While Brother Day Wants Less

TopMob: “Can you guys both kind of talk about more of what makes Season 3 really unique, especially regarding how your characters are portrayed on screen, and what you guys get to explore that you haven’t been able to do yet?”

From Demerzel’s perspective, we gain significantly deeper insights into her character as she has been operating in a reserved, mysterious, and observant manner throughout the series. However, a new character is introduced at the palace who shows genuine interest in her, actively listens to her, or circumstances compel her to do so. Regardless, Demerzel now finds someone receptive to her thoughts and feelings.
As we get to know her better, it’s becoming increasingly clear that she’s dealing with deeper internal conflicts, which makes our interactions all the more intriguing. It’s been a delight exploring this aspect of her character.
Adding The Mule to the mix, that enigmatic quality to the entire narrative, since he’s so unforeseeable yet intriguing – you can’t help but wonder about his motives, locations, and actions. What kind of person is he? How challenging can he be? It was a delightful surprise to see [Pilou Asbæk] embody such energy, which differed remarkably from the rest of the cast. Thus, the season turned out to be quite engaging from various angles.

As a supporter, I’d express it this way: “I find my character unique because he’s not your typical hero trying to save the world. Instead, he’s more about enjoying life and partying. And what’s intriguing about the story isn’t a grand battle; it’s the slow decay of society. So, it’s quite powerful that even the emperor seems to have given up.

Jared Harris on Hari Seldon’s Journey In Foundation Season 3

Hari Seldon Is “Undergoing an Existential Crisis…”

TopMob: “Going into Season 3, there’s been a 152-year time jump. Can you tease how Hari Selden has changed since audiences last spent time with him?”

Jared Harris mentions that the character Harry Selden on Ignis is attempting to establish a second version of the Foundation, but they are over a century behind schedule, so they have significant work to catch up on. Meanwhile, the other Harry Seldom in the vault has been asleep, only now waking up to confront and manage the third crisis, giving him somewhat more leeway in terms of timing.

TopMob: “What is something in Season 3 that you were able to explore with Hari that you haven’t been able to before in the show?”

In simpler terms, Jared Harris explains that Hari Seldon is experiencing an existential crisis. This means he’s struggling with questions about the meaning and purpose of his own existence because he feels he no longer controls his own destiny or even his thoughts. Someone has interfered with his mind, and this interference is causing him a deep loss of confidence. This change seems to be the most significant for Hari Seldon’s character.

Lou Llobel Reveals That Gaal Dornick Has More Action In Season 3

Gaal Is More “Action-Centric” Than Ever Before.

TopMob: “There’s been a 152-year time jump coming into this season. Can you tease the audience about how Gaal has changed since we last saw her?”

In my opinion, she has assumed leadership roles and grown significantly, which is truly impressive to witness. She seems to have used her life experiences, including hardships and setbacks, as a means to instruct a large number of individuals on remarkable skills, thus building an expansive network that is spreading across the galaxy. Her influence extends far and wide, with spies in every corner. Moreover, she appears to be fully embracing her unique abilities and potential.

TopMob: “With Season 3, what is something you felt like you were able to explore with your character that you have never done before and that will be fresh and new for everyone watching?”

As a film enthusiast, I must admit that Gaal’s character has taken on a more action-oriented role this time around, which is quite refreshing. It’s not typical for her to be so physical, given her intellectual prowess and affinity for math. However, it’s fascinating to witness her step into the void left by Salvor in terms of action, essentially filling his shoes for the season. It’s quite intriguing and adds a new dimension to her character.

TopMob: “Obviously, Gaal has changed a lot, but so has the world that we’re going to arrive in. How does that present as an entirely different existence for audiences to engage with in this season?”

Llobel finds the unique aspect of ‘Foundation’ to be that each season presents something fresh, since they leap forward through years. This allows viewers to witness various stages in the characters’ development, along with technological advancements, world changes, and the progression of the world’s appearance. It’s intriguing. He appreciates the concept that all characters are on the same timeframe, living in the present moment without any more time leaps. Additionally, he looks forward to exploring numerous new planets, which is truly exhilarating.

The full video interviews can be viewed here:

2025-07-07 22:06