Colman Domingo, who portrays Bobby T in the upcoming film The Running Man, has revealed that his character draws inspiration from iconic talk show hosts like Jerry Springer. Directed by Edgar Wright, this thriller is set to premiere in March 2025 and features a dystopian narrative where contestants strive to become billionaires by surviving a deadly televised game.
In an interview with GamesRadar+, Domingo explained how shows like Springer’s influenced the portrayal of his villainous role. He emphasized the shift in societal behavior that stemmed from such platforms, stating, “Jerry Springer changed the game, and the way people actually deal with each other – the lack of civility that people have.” He noted that these talk shows often encouraged conflict, leading to a culture where audiences are entertained by the chaos.
Domingo’s character, Bobby T, serves as the host of a brutal competition, where contestants are hunted by skilled assassins. He reflected on the darker aspects of this role, leaning heavily into the persona of a host who provokes drama while maintaining a façade of neutrality.
Alongside Domingo, Lee Pace plays the lead antagonist, Hunter Evan McCone. Pace described his character as “performatively violent,” highlighting the deceptive nature of dangerous individuals. He noted, “Dangerous people don’t actually show you their gun,” emphasizing how his character projects an image of violent machismo.
The film also critiques the current entertainment landscape, with Pace expressing discomfort over society’s complacency with violence and hostility. He remarked, “It makes me uncomfortable to think that we’re just so complacent with violence and hostility around us and that we find it entertaining.”
The narrative of The Running Man, adapted from Stephen King’s 1982 novel, presents a world where the impoverished are hunted for sport on live television. The protagonist, Ben Richards, portrayed by Glen Powell, enters the competition to secure funds for his ailing daughter. As the stakes rise, Richards must outsmart the game’s creators to survive.
Powell elaborated on the film’s themes, stating that it serves as a commentary on the darker aspects of reality television and societal engagement with media. He expressed, “Very few action movies leave you thinking, and I think this one really does.”
The cast also includes notable names such as Emilia Jones, Michael Cera, Katy O’Brian, Jayme Lawson, and Josh Brolin. As anticipation builds for the film’s release, audiences can expect a thought-provoking exploration of morality and the entertainment industry.
In summary, The Running Man promises not only action and suspense but also a critical reflection on the nature of entertainment and its impact on society, driven by compelling performances from its talented cast.
