Rebecca Hall on ‘The Beauty’s’ Shocking Exit & ‘Bait and Switch’ Role
The new FX/Hulu series, The Beauty, is already subverting expectations with a shocking narrative twist. The premiere episodes feature the unexpected departure of a lead actress, Rebecca Hall, after her character contracts a mysterious illness.
A Premise Built on Transformation
The Beauty centers around a disease that doesn’t kill, but transforms individuals into what the show describes as their “apotheotic version” – an idealized physical form. In the second episode, “Beautiful Jordan,” Rebecca Hall’s character, Jordan Bennett, contracts this disease during a romantic encounter and is subsequently replaced by actress Jess Alexander.
Hall’s Reaction to an Early Exit
Surprisingly, Rebecca Hall expressed enthusiasm about her character’s swift exit. She described the storyline as a “bait and switch,” drawing a parallel to the iconic shower scene in Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho, where Janet Leigh’s character is unexpectedly killed off. Hall stated she “loved” the idea of being a star who is then “gone.”
The Appeal of Subversion
Hall explained that Jordan Bennett didn’t actively seek transformation, unlike other characters in the series. This involuntary change, she believes, would be a “nightmare” – waking up in someone else’s body. The actress found the concept of a sudden departure creatively stimulating.
Jaquel Spivey, whose character Jeremy also underwent a transformation and was replaced by Jeremy Pope, also embraced the change, enjoying the extensive makeup work involved in portraying different versions of his character.
A Broader Message About Beauty Standards
Spivey also shared his interpretation of the show’s central theme: that beauty is subjective. He believes The Beauty suggests that individual perceptions of beauty are valid and should not be imposed on others.
What Could Happen Next
Given the show’s willingness to dramatically alter its cast, it is likely that further transformations and unexpected departures are in store. The series could explore the psychological impact of these changes on both the individuals undergoing them and those left behind. It’s also possible that the origins and nature of “the Beauty” disease will be further investigated, potentially revealing a larger conspiracy or societal commentary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens to Jordan Bennett after contracting “the Beauty”?
Jordan Bennett is replaced by Jess Alexander after contracting the disease during a romantic encounter.
How did Rebecca Hall react to being written off the show so early?
Rebecca Hall said she “loved” the idea of being a “bait and switch” and compared it to the surprise in Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho.
What is Jaquel Spivey’s interpretation of the show’s message?
Jaquel Spivey believes the show’s message is that beauty is subjective and should not be judged by others’ standards.
What are your thoughts on a series that deliberately disrupts audience expectations by changing its core cast?