William Fichtner, known for his compelling portrayals of complex characters, recently shared his thoughts on his role as Wayne Whittaker in the Apple TV+ crime drama 'Lucky,' particularly focusing on the character's shocking finale and his own acting process.
Fichtner emphasized that Wayne Whittaker was a character built with anticipation. "For an actor, it’s lovely to have a character that, before he even shows up, people are talking about him," Fichtner told Decider. This anticipation, he explained, created a strong introduction for Wayne before his on-screen debut at the end of Episode 2.
Crafting Wayne Whittaker
The actor detailed how specific elements, such as Wayne's expensive attire, homemade green juice, and opulent mansion, offered insights into his personality. "Christine creates this earthy look for Wayne that gives you so much," Fichtner said of the costume designer, adding that these details suggested a character who prioritized health and lived a carefully controlled, isolated life. Fichtner also mentioned creating a soundtrack for his character, incorporating artists like INXS and other "sexy, cool rhythms."
Fichtner described his working relationship with co-star Annette Bening, who played his ex-partner Priscilla, as an "absolute joy." He recalled seeing Bening in a play years prior and admiring her talent. "And then here we have this first scene in Episode 2 in this beautiful mansion, and Annette comes in, and just the way she is in that scene, there’s a quality about her that you can’t act and you can’t play. It’s you," he said.
The Finale Twist
Regarding Wayne's demise in the series finale, Fichtner admitted that while he had some prior knowledge of the character's end, he was still taken aback by the specifics. "If Wayne had a blind spot, it was Priscilla, because no way did he see that coming. No way," Fichtner stated. He noted that Wayne's trust in Priscilla, despite their turbulent relationship, proved to be his undoing.
The intense finale scenes, filmed in the high desert of Los Angeles during extreme heat, were a testament to the well-written script, according to Fichtner. He singled out a car ride scene with Bening as a particular highlight. "I love the dynamics in that scene between the two of us. It’s different colors for Wayne and Priscilla, but a really cool scene."
When asked about Wayne's feelings regarding the death of his son, Cary, Fichtner interpreted the character's lack of overt emotional response not as heartlessness, but as a reflection of Wayne's fundamental nature. "He just says, to me, 'This has always been on the table. And maybe I should have expressed that sooner, my remorse about what had happened to him. But you know, and I know, that I was never going to be anything but what I was,'" Fichtner explained.
Reflecting on the limited series, Fichtner expressed pride in the final product. "I’m just really proud of what happened with Lucky," he said. "And I think if people tune in and get to Episode 7, the finale, then they’re not going to be disappointed."
Fichtner also touched on his extensive career, mentioning his enjoyment of working with younger actors and recommending past projects such as 'Talamasca' and 'The Company You Keep' to new fans.