With the return of Poker Face on Peacock, fans are buzzing about the season two premiere featuring the incredible Cynthia Erivo. Known for her Oscar-nominated role as Elphaba in Wicked, Erivo showcases her talent in the latest murder mystery alongside Charlie Cale, played by Natasha Lyonne. But did you know that one of her breakout performances came from the gripping HBO series The Outsider?
The Outsider aired in early 2020, coinciding with Erivo’s Oscar nomination for her role in Harriet. This captivating series introduced her to many viewers and was based on the popular 2018 novel by Stephen King. With a stellar cast including Jason Bateman, Ben Mendelsohn, Paddy Considine, and Yul Vasquez, the show offered a thrilling mix of crime and supernatural elements. If you haven’t watched it yet, now is the perfect time to dive in!
In The Outsider, Erivo plays Holly Gibney, a character introduced in 2014’s Mr. Mercedes. With her notable return, she is also central in King’s latest novel, Never Flinch, releasing soon. Erivo’s performance as Holly is unforgettable, particularly when paired with Mendelsohn’s Ralph Anderson, a Georgia detective confronting personal demons while solving a baffling case.
The series quickly establishes a chilling premise: a boy is found murdered, and all evidence points to a beloved baseball coach (Bateman). This coach, proclaiming his innocence, meets a tragic fate before he can defend himself. Throughout the unfolding mystery, viewers encounter a mysterious figure that complicates the investigation, leaving Ralph with haunting questions about the accused’s guilt.
Holly’s entry into the narrative introduces a fresh perspective. Her uncanny abilities make her a key ally for Ralph, whose straightforward mindset is challenged by supernatural concepts. With her heightened perception and unique traits, such as recalling lyrics to unfamiliar songs, she brings a new layer of depth to the case.
But it’s not just the performances that stand out. This ten-episode series weaves a dark, atmospheric tale that grips you from start to finish. While the ending ties up many threads, it also leaves you yearning for more, proving why The Outsider gained such a dedicated following. Fortunately, you can still enjoy Erivo’s recent standout roles, including her powerful performance in Poker Face.
Both The Outsider and Poker Face are currently streaming, giving you an excellent reason to put them on your watch list if you haven’t already!
What is the central mystery in The Outsider? The series revolves around a young boy’s murder, with evidence inexplicably pointing to a well-respected local coach who claims innocence.
Who is Holly Gibney in Stephen King’s works? Holly is a recurring character created by Stephen King, known for her extraordinary perceptive abilities, first introduced in Mr. Mercedes.
Where can I watch The Outsider? You can stream the series on Max, offering a deep dive into its eerie narrative.
Why should I watch Poker Face? The series combines witty storytelling with engaging characters, making it a must-watch for mystery lovers.
What makes Cynthia Erivo’s performance so compelling? Erivo’s ability to portray complex emotions and her unique character traits make her performances standout in any role.
To explore more about fantastic shows and what’s next in entertainment, check out more articles from Moyens I/O.