Pilou Asbæk discusses tapping into a crazy vibe to portray Asimov’s villain in ‘Foundation’

Pilou Asbæk, known for his portrayal of The Mule in Season 3 of “Foundation,” recently opened up about his experience bringing this iconic Asimov villain to life on Apple TV+. Asbæk, a dynamic Danish actor, highlighted how different this role was from his previous character as King of the Iron Islands in “Game of Thrones.” He shared that executive producer David S. Goyer incorporated some changes to The Mule character for the TV series, deviating from Asimov’s original vision. Despite these alterations, Asbæk’s performance captivated audiences and added to the allure of Season 3.

In a recent interview with Space.com, Asbæk emphasized the importance of chaos and unpredictability in his portrayal of The Mule. He expressed his desire to move away from pirate roles and welcomed the opportunity to explore a new type of character. Asbæk’s portrayal of The Mule allowed him more screen time and the chance to embody a bigger menace than in his previous roles. His dedication to the character’s complexity and sinister nature shone through in each episode, culminating in a dramatic confrontation with Gaal Dornick towards the end of the season.

Asbæk praised the adaptation of Asimov’s work into an entertaining TV series, acknowledging the timeless influence of the sci-fi genre. Throughout the season, subtle hints and moments built up the suspense around The Mule, leading to the shocking revelation in the finale. Asbæk’s nuanced performance challenged traditional perceptions of The Mule character, proving that his interpretation resonated with viewers despite initial skepticism.

Reflecting on his experience, Asbæk recognized the significance of Asimov’s legacy in shaping modern science fiction. He shared that the adaptation of The Mule character allowed him to explore new facets of his acting abilities, showcasing a villainous depth not seen in his previous roles. As the series progresses and Season 4 looms ahead, fans can expect more intricate storytelling and character development, cementing “Foundation” as a standout sci-fi saga in contemporary television.