Jeremy Renner, known for his roles in the Avengers series and The Hurt Locker, shared insights about the upcoming season of Mayor of Kingstown during a cast panel discussion in New York City on Tuesday. Despite the show’s serious themes surrounding addiction, corruption, incarceration, and murder, Renner emphasized the enjoyable atmosphere on set.
“Nobody smiles on the show, right?” Renner said, adding that while the setting is grim, the cast and crew create a positive environment. He noted, “It’s really nice to be on the set,” highlighting the gratitude among the team and their commitment to their craft.
Laura Benanti, who joins the cast for Season 4, echoed this sentiment, describing a fun and humorous dynamic. “Everybody’s really funny,” she remarked, appreciating how humor helps the cast navigate dark and challenging scenes. Her experience with the show’s camaraderie has been a pleasant surprise, allowing for a supportive atmosphere during intense filming.
The group’s humor extends into personal territories, with Renner’s near-fatal Sno-Cat accident becoming a frequent topic of levity. Hugh Dillon, who co-created the series, emphasized the importance of humor in his background, which includes working in a hospital for sick children, where gallows humor was a coping mechanism.
Renner’s resilience following his accident has inspired his colleagues, particularly Benanti, who felt motivated to push through her own discomfort while filming in freezing temperatures. She joked about her reluctance to complain when surrounded by Renner, who was working hard despite his injuries. Dillon humorously noted that Renner’s ability to address discomfort in the cold serves as a reminder of his extraordinary journey.
As the series progresses, Renner has observed growth not only in himself but also within the overall narrative of the show. After his accident, the plot shifted focus onto other characters, providing new opportunities for development that Renner found beneficial. “That actually really helped open it up a lot for other characters to grow more,” he explained.
With Season 4 set to premiere on Paramount+ this Sunday, Renner promises an exhilarating ride, describing it as a “downhill roller coaster, out of control, no brakes.” Viewers can expect surprising twists that demand their full attention, remarking, “If you go to the bathroom while watching the show, you’re going to have to press pause because something will happen.”
Joining the cast this season are notable actors including Edie Falco and Lennie James, along with returning stars. As the series continues to evolve, Renner expresses optimism for its future, indicating he still has more to contribute to the character and the storyline. The collective enthusiasm of the cast and crew reveals a hopeful outlook for the show as it moves forward.