Barry Sloane shares insights about his portrayal of Destruction in season 2 of The Sandman, including a notable deleted scene that never made it to air. The Liverpool-born actor recognizes the “Game of Thrones” connections this season, as he prepares to step into House of the Dragon.
In an interview, Sloane confirmed that he will indeed reprise his role as Destruction in the second half of The Sandman’s season 2. Standing tall at 6 feet 3 inches, Sloane acknowledges that his imposing physique tends to cast him in roles that lean towards the “gruff soldier” archetype, a contrast to his more artistic and introspective nature. He describes himself as having begun his career in music and poetry, emphasizing a side of him that doesn’t always align with his on-screen persona.
Destruction, as characterized in The Sandman, embodies both destruction and creation and has withdrawn from his family to escape the turmoil associated with his abilities. Sloane’s understanding of his character is deepened by his personal interests, including meditation and energy work, which inspire his performance. As Destruction, he grapples with the conflict between his destructive nature and an underlying desire for creativity, creating a conflicted yet compelling character.
In the show, Destruction is depicted living a humble life, having traded his sword for art, guided by a sense of guilt and the complexities of his relationships. Sloane points out details in his character’s portrayal, such as unique accessories that reflect Destruction’s journey, including a necklace with a piece of hair from Ishtar, his former lover.
A deleted scene, mentioned by Sloane, featured an interaction between Destruction and Delight, showcasing the character’s philosophy on change, wrapped in the irony of a volcanic eruption. This scene, while not included in the final cut, highlights the blend of themes within The Sandman—transformation and the inevitability of change.
Sloane considers Destruction the kind of role that aligns with his aspirations as an actor. He often seeks out complex characters rather than typical leading men, finding a niche that resonates with his character actor inclinations.
As he ventures deeper into the world of fantasy and drama, Sloane is excited about his upcoming role in House of the Dragon, where he plays Ser Adrian Redfort, further connecting him with the vast universe of fantasy storytelling. He also notes that many actors from Game of Thrones have crossed over into The Sandman, exemplifying the intertwined nature of these popular fantasy series.
With the second half of The Sandman season 2 slated for release soon, Sloane’s insights and enthusiasm suggest that Destruction’s journey is far from over, leaving audiences eager for more character evolution and thematic exploration. The blending of established worlds in fantasy storytelling provides a rich backdrop for engaging narratives, offering hope for more interconnected experiences for viewers. The Sandman season 2, Vol. 1 is currently available for streaming on Netflix.