Episode Overview and Insights
- “USS Callister: Into Infinity”marks a groundbreaking moment in Black Mirror history as its first sequel episode, featuring a majority of the original cast.
- Actor Jimmi Simpson opens up about the complexities of portraying his character across two distinct roles in the episode.
- The conversation also sheds light on how Simpson’s past experience in a science fiction series shaped his interpretation of his character in Black Mirror.
Black Mirror returns with its much-anticipated seventh season, introducing a unique element: a sequel episode titled “USS Callister: Into Infinity.”This installment continues the digital odyssey of the ship’s crew, bringing back nearly the entire original cast. Among them is Jimmi Simpson, reprising his role as both the ambitious tech mogul James Walton and his digital doppelgänger.
In an exclusive interview with Game Rant, Simpson shared his insights on the intricate dynamics of playing Walton’s dual persona, revealing how a formative role in an earlier science fiction series impacted his performance. He also referenced a classic 1985 sci-fi film that inspired one of his standout scenes in the current episode.
This interview has been condensed for brevity and clarity.
Game Rant: You’re returning to Black Mirror, where “USS Callister”was a standout from season 4. Now, you’re not only stepping back into the character but also exploring new facets of him. What challenges did you face in portraying this duality?
Jimmi Simpson: It’s genuinely enjoyable as an actor to explore the character’s shared origins, yet navigate different emotional pathways. The unrestrained Walton embodies all the vices typical of unchecked ambition—greed and selfishness—without ever facing accountability. Conversely, the trapped Walton experiences a profound awakening about his flaws, leading to a pivotal moment of realization and growth during interactions with his crew.
The digital Walton discovers that empathy exists beyond him, realizing that everyone around him has feelings too. This transformation highlights the complexity of human nature and the impulse to consume, which often requires mentorship and life experiences to navigate ethically.
Game Rant: Your character possesses an intriguing duality, reminiscent of William from Westworld. Both are wealthy individuals with moral ambiguity and ties to advanced technologies. Did the similarities between these roles influence your portrayal of Walton?
Jimmi Simpson: It’s all interconnected. With each role I take, I gather insights that inform my performances. Both William and Walton experience profound loneliness, albeit in different ways. William copes by violently confronting reminders of his solitude, while Walton exploits a lucrative tech business, manipulating others for personal gain. This pervasive loneliness often drives villainous behavior, whether intentional or not.
Game Rant: Considering these significant sci-fi narratives, do you identify as a sci-fi enthusiast? Are there other franchises or projects you dream of joining?
Jimmi Simpson: Late in my career, I developed a strong affinity for sci-fi, especially predictive stories. I grew up as an avid reader and was particularly influenced by authors like Ray Bradbury and Isaac Asimov. Currently, I’m working on a show titled Dark Matter in Chicago, which aligns with my interest in speculative ideas—a reflection of current and potential realities.
Narrative has always fascinated me; my initial goal was to teach English. However, I found my passion in theater and storytelling, perceiving it as a vital means of communication and community building. I feel fortunate to be immersed in projects that resonate with me personally.
Game Rant: In a particularly memorable scene, you consume a wriggling extraterrestrial creature and its blood. What was that experience like? How did you approach that unusual prop and performance?
Jimmi Simpson: Filming that scene was exhilarating. Engaging in such fantastical storytelling, especially with challenging props, felt reminiscent of an older film I cherished, Enemy Mine, starring Dennis Quaid and Louis Gossett Jr. The visceral commitment required for that scene inspired me to tap into a primal hunger, transforming the absurdity into genuine emotion. It was a profound experience, and I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of it—truly a dream role realization.