You might think that John Goodman had enough excitement after the rollercoaster ride of "Roseanne" and its spin-off "The Conners," but it seems like he was craving even more. And guess what? He found just that over at Netflix. John stars in a gripping drama, co-produced with the BBC, called Black Earth Rising. It's a show that takes viewers deep into the world of legal intrigue and personal turmoil.
What’s Black Earth Rising All About?
The official synopsis paints a vivid picture: “The story revolves around Kate Ashby [played by Michaela Coel], a legal investigator working under the seasoned lawyer Michael Ennis [John Goodman]. When Kate's adoptive mother, Eve, takes on a high-stakes case prosecuting an African militia leader, it thrusts both Michael and Kate into a journey that will change their lives forever.”
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Now, this sounds like a world away from the sitcom vibes of "The Conners," right? In a candid interview with the BBC, John opens up about his decision to take on this project. “I’d just wrapped up a long year and, to be honest, I was exhausted and feeling burnt out. But this show reinvigorated me. It was such a joy to wake up every morning looking forward to work.”
Why John Goodman Was the Perfect Fit
The series’ writer, director, and producer, Hugo Blick, couldn’t be more thrilled with John's involvement. “John brought an incredible depth of intelligence and humor to the character of Michael Ennis. Honestly, I can’t imagine anyone else in that role.”
Hugo was particularly drawn to John’s comedic side, believing it added a unique energy to the drama. John agrees, explaining, “Humor often comes from trying too hard to fit in. It subverts audience expectations, casting against type and adding tension. I don’t necessarily see myself as funny, but maybe others do. Michael Ennis is a deeply tragic figure who overcompensates for his sadness, and that’s where the humor emerges.”
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So, what exactly drew John to this project? He points to the script as the primary attraction. “It was the script, the script, and the script. And Hugo’s energy—his humor was infectious. I loved working with him. Playing someone like Michael Ennis was a challenge I hadn’t faced before, and I hoped I wasn’t biting off more than I could chew. Plus, the chance to work in London was irresistible.”
Understanding Michael Ennis: A Complex Character
John delves deeper into his character, describing Michael Ennis as “a profoundly lonely man, disconnected and disheartened. He’s fighting to reclaim his life, but it’s clear he’s lost. He’s battling cancer, his daughter is in a coma, and guilt drives him to rediscover the passion that once fueled him.”
Netflix will soon announce the premiere date for "Black Earth Rising," while the show kicks off on the BBC in England on September 10.
