Alexander Skarsgård discusses ‘Murderbot’ relationships

Murderbot May Surprise You!

Even with a name that may strike fear into your heart, Murderbot is not your typical android. In this new sci-fi series, Murderbot would rather watch soap operas than live up to its menacing title. It’s a twist that even surprised Alexander Skarsgård, who plays the SecUnit at the heart of the show.

“I did not expect the socially awkward android who prefers to be left to its own devices and watch soap operas. It was such a refreshing, unique character, and I just fell in love with Murderbot,” Skarsgård shares with Entertainment Weekly.

Based on Martha Wells’ best-selling sci-fi saga, The Murderbot Diaries, the series follows this security robot, now free from its enslavement, as it navigates a world of autonomy and existential questions while still fulfilling its job to protect a space exploration crew.

What’s interesting is how Murderbot copes with its newfound independence. Instead of going on a destructive spree, Murderbot chooses to immerse itself in TV shows like its favorite, “The Rise and Fall of Sanctuary Moon.” Through this show, Murderbot observes human interactions safely, avoiding the entanglements that real-life relationships bring.

But when Murderbot is assigned to protect a group of “space hippies,” including Dr. Ayda Mensah, Gurathin, Ratthi, Bharadwaj, Arada, and Pin-Lee, Murderbot finds itself forming unexpected connections. While it may be resistant to human kindness at first, the SecUnit begins to appreciate the care and understanding it receives from the crew.

As relationships deepen and tensions rise, especially with the suspicious Gurathin, Murderbot’s biggest fear is its secret being uncovered. With every episode, the intrigue builds, keeping viewers hooked on this unique blend of sci-fi and human connection.

Don’t miss new episodes of Murderbot on Apple TV+ every Friday!