Jamie Campbell Bower has shared how music played a significant role in shaping his character, Vecna, in the popular series *Stranger Things*. The 37-year-old actor, who portrays the enigmatic antagonist alongside his previous incarnations, Henry Creel and One, emphasized that specific “dark” musical pieces helped him immerse himself in the villain’s psyche.
In an interview with Deadline, Bower stated, “I draw great inspiration from music. It’s one of those things, I think we all know where we were when we first heard certain songs and how we were feeling when we heard them.” He explained how music served as a tool for meditation, allowing him to delve deep into Vecna’s character.
Bower mentioned that he listened to a range of genres, including folk and black metal, to set the tone for his performance. He cited artists like Chelsea Wolfe and bands such as Norma Jean as particularly influential in helping him build Vecna’s dark persona. “It was nice to be able to put on certain albums and go, ‘Oh, yeah, I know where I am. I know what I need to do,’” he added.
Transformative Collaboration in Character Design
The physical transformation required to embody Vecna was another aspect Bower found exhilarating. He expressed enthusiasm about collaborating with the prosthetics, costume, and make-up teams, noting that this season involved even more teamwork across departments.
“I love Barry Gower and the whole team at BGFX, and they’re just amazing,” Bower said. He described the process of wearing prosthetics that enhanced his character’s imposing presence. “This season is definitely more of a collaboration across departments, which for me was really fun,” he remarked.
Bower highlighted the importance of visual impact, stating that he discussed specific enhancements, such as wider shoulders, with Gower to ensure Vecna maintained an intimidating stature. He even suggested using American football pads to achieve the desired effect. The actor also wore six-inch lifts in his shoes to enhance his height and presence further.
Physicality Over Digital Effects
Bower’s commitment to authenticity extended to his performance style. He emphasized that much of what audiences see on screen, including Vecna’s movements, was predominantly his own physical work rather than relying on digital effects. He recalled a significant moment where he performed in silhouette behind a membrane, asserting, “What you’re seeing on screen with regards to the way he moves… that’s all me still underneath, underneath the CG.”
The actor expressed his eagerness to be present for pivotal scenes, stating that he loved the opportunity to bring Vecna to life. “I was like, ‘Well, of course I’ll be there. It’s my job. I love being here,’” he said, reflecting on the experience as a unique and rewarding process.
Through his dedication to both music and the physicality of the role, Jamie Campbell Bower has created a memorable and complex character in Vecna, adding depth to the ongoing narrative of *Stranger Things*.
