Warning: SPOILERS for Based on a True Story!Even serial killers want in on the true-crime podcast craze, as seen in Based on a True Story. The Peacock series centers on pregnant realtor Ava and her former tennis star husband Nathan after they realize someone close to them is none other than a local serial killer, the Westside Ripper. Due to their financial struggles, they decide to blackmail him into helping produce a podcast chronicling his origins.
Kaley Cuoco and Chris Messina lead the ensemble cast of Based on a True Story alongside Tom Bateman, Priscilla Quintana, Liana Liberato, Natalia Dyer, Alex Alomar Akpobome, Aisha Alfa, Annabelle Dexter-Jones, and Li Jun Li. Going a step further than the similar genre hit Only Murders in the Building, the comedy thriller keeps audiences guessing whether Ava and Nathan can keep Matt’s murderous tendencies under control.
Ahead of the show’s release, FilmmakerFocus spoke exclusively with star Tom Bateman for a spoiler-fueled discussion of Based on a True Story, the fun of toying with Cuoco and Messina, the various ways he played his likable serial killer, and more.
Tom Bateman Talks Based on a True Story
Did toeing the line of toying with Kaley and Chris came from the script, or your interpretation of the character factoring into your performance?
Tom Bateman: It was a combination of both. When I first read the script, there were still discussions about the tone and direction of the show. The producers and I had ongoing conversations about the character and how to portray him. This allowed me to explore different ways of playing each scene, which made it incredibly interesting for me as an actor. I could be scary and intimidating one moment, and then switch to being fun and slightly unhinged the next. The show’s flexibility and the collaboration with the directors allowed me to experiment and push boundaries with the character. It was a constantly evolving process, and I loved every moment of it.
Throughout the shooting, we had multiple directors who brought their own perspectives and ideas. They would watch our work and provide feedback, which further shaped the character. The role was mercurial, capable of being many different things, and we embraced that. It was a thrilling experience to see how the character developed and to have the freedom to explore different interpretations.
The way that the finale goes, there feels like so much room to grow from there. Have you had conversations with Craig Rosenberg or anybody about continuing with Based on a True Story season 2?
Tom Bateman: Absolutely! Craig is full of ideas and has already planned out the structure for future seasons. Even during the shooting of the first season, he was already discussing plans for season 3. The show is not only entertaining but also raises important questions about morality and the consequences of profiting from tragedy. This central theme allows for endless possibilities and different directions the story can take. I would be thrilled if the audience embraces the show and demands more. It would be exciting to explore new avenues and see where the story leads us.
Get ready for a wonderful satire that runs throughout the entire show. I’ve been a fan of your work in the Poirot franchise, and I’m dying to know if you’ll be returning for Haunting in Venice. I understand you can’t confirm or deny anything, but what are your thoughts on the future of the franchise, if not Haunting in Venice?
Tom Bateman: Well, I’m pretty dead at the end of the second film. [Laughs]
But hey, there are always prequels!
Tom Bateman: [Chuckles] Never say never with movies. And obviously, yeah, Ken sort of jumps around in time with [these movies]. Basically, all I’d say is that I love doing it so much if Ken and the guys at Disney came up with an idea for Bouc to be involved in a story, I’d jump at that chance, because I loved it as a character, I loved it as the two pictures that I got to do, so yeah, I’d definitely do more.
About Based on a True Story
An intriguing and darkly comedic thriller, “Based on a True Story” delves into the unexpected collision of lives between a realtor, a plumber, and a former tennis star. This gripping tale exposes America’s fascination with true crime and murder.
Don’t miss our exclusive interview with Liana Liberato and Priscilla Quintana, who star in “Based on a True Story.”
