Matthew Macfadyen and Shannon, the actors behind the upcoming production focused on the assassination of President James Garfield, shared insights into their characters and the broader implications of their story during a recent interview.
Macfadyen portrayed a troubled character shaped by a difficult upbringing, describing him as directionless and not particularly skilled in his pursuits. Yet, he emphasized that this character is driven by ambition and passion. A pivotal moment occurs when he meets Garfield by chance, which ignites a desire in him to be of service and help in the journey ahead.
On a lighter note, they were asked about their beards for the production. Macfadyen revealed that he had grown about 80 percent of his beard himself, while Shannon humorously admitted his was more of a Halloween store purchase, as he wasn’t able to grow a natural beard.
Discussing the theme of their show, Shannon pointed out that assassination carries significant repercussions, noting that Garfield’s potential legacy could have drastically altered the United States as we know it today. He speculated that if Garfield had been allowed to complete his term, the nation might have experienced less division, given his vision for unity and progress.
The conversation took a modern twist when they touched on the implications of recent events, particularly an assassination attempt against former President Donald Trump during their filming. Shannon stated the timing underscored the relevance of their project, indicating that it reflects ongoing national issues. He expressed concern that the “nation is not mentally well,” suggesting that the United States may benefit from introspection and even professional help to address deeper issues, a sentiment echoed by Macfadyen.
Through their roles, they aim to shed light on both historical and contemporary challenges, offering viewers a chance to engage with the complexities of leadership and national identity.