Jurnee Smollett Analyzes Her Flawed Protagonist in Smoke Star on Apple TV+

Jurnee Smollett gets real about her flawed protagonist in the new Apple TV+ series Smoke, breaking down her character Michelle Calderone with refreshing honesty. Smollett shared that Michelle is a character drawn to danger and destruction, caught in a cycle of creation and destruction that stems from her traumatic past and complicated relationships. The show, which follows arson investigator Dave Gudsen and his partner Michelle Calderone, features an array of complex characters, including Ntare Guma Mbaho Mwine’s outcast character, Freddy, who is described as the loneliest man on the planet.

Greg Kinnear, who plays Captain Harvey Englehart, highlighted the thematic use of fire in the series, pointing out how all the characters are drawn to things that are detrimental to them. Kinnear emphasized the complexity of the characters portrayed in the show, suggesting that their personal struggles mirror the literal fires burning in the town of Umberlin.

The actors shared insights into their characters’ motivations and relationships, discussing how fire serves as a central theme in the series. Kinnear revealed that there is underlying tension between characters like Captain Harvey Englehart and Detective Rafe Spall’s Steven Burk, adding depth to the storytelling.

Smoke is set to premiere on Apple TV+ on June 27, 2025, promising viewers an engaging and thought-provoking narrative that delves into the complexities of its flawed yet compelling characters.