Colman Domingo, the acclaimed actor, has revealed that his character in the upcoming thriller The Running Man draws inspiration from infamous talk show hosts like Jerry Springer. Domingo portrays Bobby T, the host of a deadly game show where contestants vie for riches while being hunted by skilled assassins. Directed by Edgar Wright, the film is set for release on March 15, 2025.
During a recent interview with GamesRadar+, Domingo discussed how he looked to “old-school talk shows” for his portrayal. He noted, “Jerry Springer changed the game, and the way people actually deal with each other – the lack of civility that people have.” He expressed that Springer’s style, which often involved pitting guests against each other, influenced his character’s approach to entertainment.
Lee Pace, who plays the primary antagonist Evan McCone, emphasized that his character embodies a “performatively violent” persona. He remarked, “Dangerous people don’t actually show you their gun,” indicating that true danger often lies beneath surface appearances. Pace’s comments highlight the film’s commentary on the current entertainment landscape, where sensationalism often takes precedence over morality.
The plot of The Running Man is based on Stephen King’s 1982 novel of the same name, set in a dystopian future where the impoverished are hunted for sport on live television. The protagonist, Ben Richards, played by Glen Powell, enters the brutal game to secure funds for his sick daughter. As the stakes rise, Richards must learn to turn the situation to his advantage against those who created the deadly competition.
Pace shared his discomfort with the portrayal of violence in entertainment, stating, “It makes me uncomfortable to think that we’re just so complacent with violence and hostility around us and that we find it entertaining.” He pointed out the film’s exploration of how audiences engage with violence, suggesting it provides a false sense of strength by watching someone else endure it.
The cast of the film also includes notable actors such as Emilia Jones, Michael Cera, Katy O’Brian, Jayme Lawson, and Josh Brolin. Powell has expressed that The Running Man encourages viewers to reflect on the darker aspects of reality television and the entertainment industry. He remarked, “Very few action movies leave you thinking and I think this one really does.”
As anticipation builds for this thrilling adaptation, Domingo’s insights into his character reveal a complex interplay between entertainment and morality, resonating with contemporary societal issues. The film promises to challenge audiences, compelling them to reconsider their views on reality TV and the lengths to which people will go for fame and fortune.
