“A Caring Father Figure”: Kevin Bacon’s Leadership Role in His New Horror-Comedy Series

With a captivating soundtrack, thrilling demon-hunting escapades, and emotional cast reunions, The Bondsman promises diverse appeal for its audience.

Starring alongside Kevin Bacon, the series features a remarkable ensemble, including Beth Grant and Jolene Purdy. This marks a special reunion for the duo, who last collaborated nearly 25 years ago on Donnie Darko. Although they shared no scenes in that film, their journey continues in The Bondsman, where they finally collaborate. The cast also introduces rising star Maxwell Jenkins as Cade, Hub’s son, drawing an interesting parallel between their characters as both pursue music careers.

As excitement builds for the show’s premiere, ScreenRant recently sat down with Jenkins, Grant, and Purdy to discuss their experiences on set. Jenkins shared insights about his character’s relationship with music, while Grant and Purdy expressed their joy over reuniting. The trio also commended Bacon for his leadership on set, highlighting his role as a guiding force during production.

“…A Loving Father to All of Us, Really”

Grant, Purdy, and Jenkins took a moment to express their admiration for Bacon’s influence on set. Grant humorously recounted always being “one degree or zero degrees away from him”in the context of the classic game, Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon. Despite their previous lack of direct scenes, she has always appreciated Bacon’s work, dating back to his performance in Diner.

Purdy reflected on Bacon’s thoughtful leadership, noting that he ensured everyone stayed cool with ice cream during the heat of filming in Georgia. Both Grant and Purdy emphasized his kindness, calling him “a true leader”who fostered a family-like atmosphere, even inviting cast members for brunch and preparing homemade dishes like guacamole.

Jenkins further elaborated on Bacon’s excellence as a scene partner, describing him as a “phenomenal”collaborator who makes everyone comfortable. He identified music as a significant connecting thread that helped shape the relationships between the family members. Jenkins mentioned a pivotal scene in episode seven where the characters Hub, Cade, and Maryanne share a musical moment, underscoring music’s universal power:

The work on the music, and the constant talking about it, and sending ideas back and forth with that music was just super helpful in generating a relationship between everyone in the family. Music really does have that power, which I think is so useful to bring onto a set.

Grant “Screamed Out Loud”at the News of Purdy’s Involvement

“I’ve Always Said She Was the Heart of [Donnie Darko].”

Jolene Purdy's character Midge smiling in The Bondsman

Grant and Purdy have both achieved recognition across various platforms like Little Miss Sunshine, No Country for Old Men, and WandaVision. Their connection goes back to Donnie Darko, where Purdy made her acting debut as Cherita Chen, and Grant portrayed the strict Kitty Farmer. Grant has cherished Purdy’s talent for the past 25 years, often claiming that she embodies the heart of Donnie Darko.

Upon learning that Purdy would join The Bondsman, Grant excitedly “screamed out loud”and mimicked a memorable line from Purdy’s character. Purdy joyfully echoed her feelings, recalling how the announcement filled her with warmth. During their first table read, Grant’s enthusiastic greeting made Purdy feel welcome and comfortable in what could have been a daunting experience.

Reflecting on their first scenes together in the series, Purdy described moments where she felt almost like a spectator, captivated by her co-stars’ performances. Grant affirmed the high quality of the dialogue and structure in The Bondsman, which aids their performances.

Jenkins Relates Closely to His Role as Cade

“I Could Really Draw On The Experience of Wanting to Stand Out As A Musician.”

Maxwell Jenkins as Cade expressing a somber emotion in The Bondsman

Maxwell Jenkins has gained experience in various roles across platforms, including Lost in Space and Reacher. He acknowledged that playing Cade in The Bondsman represented one of his most authentic portrayals, specifically because Cade embodies aspirations Jenkins himself relates to as a budding musician.

Jenkins found that Cade’s desire to gain recognition, especially from his father, mirrored his personal journey, allowing him to merge both aspects of his creativity. He explained, “While Cade’s quest is deeply tied to his relationship with his father, the theme of striving to be recognized is universal. Cade’s unwavering loyalty to his family – to the extent of facing dangers for them – resonates strongly with my own values.” Jenkins shared insights about his upbringing in a traveling circus, emphasizing the deep trust and loyalty that his experiences fostered, which he aims to reflect in his character’s journey.