[This story contains significant spoilers from the seventh episode of Yellowjackets season three, titled “Croak.” ]
Unexpected Connections: Joel McHale Joins Yellowjackets
Joel McHale’s journey into the world of Yellowjackets began unexpectedly at a Built to Spill concert in Los Angeles. It was here that he crossed paths with Ashley Lyle, co-creator of the critically acclaimed Showtime series. Although they were familiar faces to one another, that night sparked a deeper conversation about McHale’s potential involvement in season three. As he recounted to The Hollywood Reporter, “I was probably three IPAs in,” leading him to think, “Did she really mean it?” Nevertheless, his excitement was tangible: “Fucking yeah, of course. I’d love to do it,” he said.
A Game-Changing Episode
McHale’s casual exchange at the concert eventually led to his pivotal role in the show’s third season. His character, Kodiak, made a significant entrance in the seventh episode, dramatically altering the series’ direction. Following the intense cliffhanger at the end of episode six, “Croak” immediately thrust viewers back into the gripping narrative as a stranger, portrayed by Nelson Franklin, unexpectedly discovered the traumatized teen survivors engaging in a gruesome cannibalistic ritual after the shocking death of Coach Ben Scott (played by Steven Krueger). Krueger underlined the significance of this event, asserting, “If they don’t stumble upon this group of teenagers who are literally feasting on a man’s body, I don’t think… Lottie [Courtney Eaton] would have that reflex reaction to kill one of them.”
Introducing New Characters
In this pivotal episode, viewers were introduced to scientists Edwin and Hanna, played by Franklin and Ashley Sutton, alongside McHale’s Kodiak. The pair of scientists are deep in the wilderness to study the arctic banshee frog during its rare mating season. This revelation adds an eerie context to the shrieks and sounds the Yellowjackets survivors have heard, suggesting the possibility that their madness might not stem from a supernatural source after all. Now, with Edwin’s brutal fate sealed and Kodiak and Hanna entangled with the teens, the stakes have never been higher. What will the survivors do next?
In McHale’s Words: Insights on Kodiak’s Character
McHale discussed his character’s introduction, his reaction to Edwin’s demise (murdered by Lottie with an axe), and the shifting dynamics as Kodiak and Hanna integrate into the group. “I think she was like, ‘He’s a mountain man who stumbles upon them,'” he recalled referring to Ashley Lyle’s initial pitch for Kodiak. The enigmatic wilderness guide’s unrefined demeanor and hidden motivations quickly become evident.
The Tension of Survival
As the episode progresses, the characters face an escalating tension. With Shauna’s daughter Callie divulging that they disappeared near the original crash site of the Yellowjackets’ plane, the ominous fate of all involved hangs tantalizingly in the balance. When reflecting on the circumstances, McHale humorously reflects, “Well, everybody dies,” indicating his anticipation for how these terrifying tribulations will unfold on-screen.
Behind the Scenes: Building a World
Stepping onto the set of Yellowjackets was akin to joining a tight-knit family, as experiences were shared and the cast bonded over their challenging filming conditions. “The crew is putting in long hours, and everyone’s making jokes while dealing with these cannibals covered in blood,” McHale observed, highlighting the camaraderie among the cast and crew.
Unraveling Mysteries: The Role of the Arctic Banshee Frog
The introduction of the arctic banshee frog serves not only to intrigue but also to clarify some mysteries surrounding the teenagers’ descent into madness. McHale teased the storyline’s developments while maintaining an air of secrecy: “I know where some of it’s going! I’ll be very vague: The storytelling is really compelling and moves along really well.”
Future Endeavors and Closure
As for the future of Community, McHale confirmed, “We are funded and so we’ve got the money to make it.” Although specific production timelines remain tentative, he remains optimistic about commencing filming soon.
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New episodes of Yellowjackets season three premiere every Friday on Paramount+, with linear airings on Sundays at 8 p.m. on Showtime. Stay engaged with THR’s ongoing coverage, reviews, and exclusive interviews.