Alexander Skarsgård originally did not want to star in Apple TV’s Murderbot, here’s why

It sounds like ideal casting when people talk about Alexander Skarsgård as the lead actor in the Apple TV sci-fi series Murderbot. It is not surprising to see the actor play an awkward security android, given his reputation as someone who usually takes up intense parts such as that of dark vampires or tough warriors, but rather feels comic and even appropriate to some extent. But he almost turned down the role at the start.

Murderbot on Apple TV+, developed by Chris Weitz and Paul Weitz, is originally adapted from The Murderbot Diaries book series by Martha Wells and likewise, the first season is based on the first novella All Systems Red. The plot follows the adventures of a security robot that breaks into its own system. Rather than harming humans, it likes watching soap operas and avoiding crowds.

Even though the idea was unique, Skarsgård had his doubts. He did not know whether the role was fitting and was also afraid of devoting himself to yet another long TV series. Later the weird and comical idea persuaded him to be part of the project.

Alexander Skarsgård’s initial misconception about Murderbot

Alexander Skarsgård originally misinterpreted what the series was going to be from its title. He thought it would have a violent, muscular android such as in RoboCop or The Terminator. That thought seemed justified since Skarsgård is known for his tough and strong characters. He played the Viking warrior named Amleth in The Northman and the intimidating vampire Eric Northman in True Blood.

These performances created an impression that he as an actor always preferred serious and action oriented roles. However, in an interview with Collider, Skarsgård revealed that he was not exactly thrilled about yet another violent role after completing strenuous projects like The Northman. His opinion changed when he read the script for Murderbot. Alexander Skarsgård told Collider:

“There was an element of surprise when I started reading it. I wasn't familiar with Martha's novellas prior to the script landing in my lap. Hearing the title, I was told, 'It's a sci-fi action adventure show called Murderbot.' I definitely expected the character to be a testosterone-filled tough guy kind of murderbot, and I was like, 'Alright, I think I know what this is. It's in the vein of, like, Terminator or RoboCop. Something like that.' I had just done The Northman and Infinity Pool, so quite weird, dark projects, and I wasn't really looking for something… Especially with The Northman, there's a lot of testosterone in that character, so I was like, 'I'm not sure I want to do Murderbot after that.' But then I started reading it, and I was introduced to this socially awkward android who loves soap operas. That's a wonderful feeling when you start reading something, and you expect it to go in one direction, and you're completely blindsided. I'm like, 'Wait, what's happening? This is going in a completely different direction.'

Tonally, it was the palate cleanser that I needed after those pretty intense projects. Again, intense in a really good way. Those were extraordinary experiences, but I think I was ready to do something a bit more tonally different and a character that was tonally a bit more comedic.”

The character was not a fearful murderer. Rather, Murderbot was socially inept, sarcastic, and preferred to watch TV programs over fighting. Skarsgård was instantly attracted to that oddity. The comic and the emotional distance enabled the role to be fresh and unlike the powerful silent roles he had undertaken previously. It then appeared to be an exciting and unusual sci-fi role to play.

Why was he hesitant to join another long-running series

Alexander Skarsgård was also reluctant to become a part of a long-running TV series again. He had seven seasons of True Blood experience already, and he understood that those engagements can consume years and restrict other film projects. Due to this, he stated that he would not come back to a long-term series unless the role really captivated him and the creative team was the right one.

It was what ended up persuading him to star in Murderbot. That commitment was worthwhile because of the quirky nature and the distinctive tone of the show. The series has already been renewed for a second season, which means fans can be excited about more hilarious robotic adventurous coming to screen.

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