In FX’s series The Old Man, actors Jeff Bridges and John Lithgow portray complex characters who share a fraught yet cooperative relationship rooted in their shared history in the intelligence community. Their off-screen camaraderie is evident as they exchange light-hearted banter, especially when Bridges reflects on his health struggles, facing cancer and COVID-19. He was unsure if he would live to complete the first season of the show, saying, “I didn’t think I was going to make it.” As a motivating factor, he set personal goals, including the significant milestone of walking his daughter, Hayley, down the aisle in 2022.
Lithgow recalls receiving disheartening updates from Bridges during this challenging time but always believed that the show would be a motivating force for his co-star. He stated, “Something in me thought, well, this show is exactly what he needs… he really loves this show.” Lithgow himself had a vested interest in Bridges’ return, as their limited collaboration in the first season left him wanting more: “You’re going to get back here and you’re going to act with me. You’re the reason I wanted to do this show.”
The second season of The Old Man unfolds as a unique buddy drama revolving around fatherhood. Bridges’ character, retired CIA operative Dan Chase, finds himself in a dire situation when his daughter Emily, played by Alia Shawkat, is kidnapped by a former ally turned adversary. Forced to collaborate with Lithgow’s Harold Harper, a former FBI deputy director who once pursued Chase, the duo embarks on a dangerous mission to rescue Emily in Afghanistan, confronting their turbulent pasts along the way.
Bridges emphasizes the theme of love within the narrative, acknowledging that love encompasses both tender and darker aspects. Lithgow humorously draws parallels to the musical Mamma Mia!, noting the dysfunctional relationships portrayed in their show. He reflects on the complexities of their characters, highlighting the extreme circumstances they face and the duality of empathy and ruthlessness required in their line of work.
Despite the physical challenges often associated with aging, Bridges displays remarkable strength and skill in his role, battling foes considerably younger than him. The show resonates with audiences as it delves into themes such as regret, aging, and fatherhood while both actors embrace their roles as mature figures in Hollywood, traversing the realities of getting older.
At 78, Lithgow recognizes an actor’s career often hinges on external forces, stating, “You wait for people to want you.” He reflects on his diverse portrayal of characters, moving from youthful roles to playing older men as demand increases for seasoned actors. Bridges, aged 74, shares a more philosophical perspective on aging, embracing the uncertainty and potential that comes with it. He expresses how challenges can reveal unexpected strengths, noting that navigating health fears has granted him unique insights into himself.
Ultimately, both Bridges and Lithgow illustrate how their life experiences enrich their performances, crafting a narrative that resonates with audiences grappling with the complexities of aging, love, and resilience.