SPOILER ALERT: This interview contains significant spoilers from the gripping series “Untamed,” currently available for streaming on Netflix.
Eric Bana is eager for a refreshing shift in his illustrious career that spans over 30 years. As a versatile actor, he has successfully navigated various genres, but now he expresses a desire to explore different creative avenues.
Best known for his captivating roles in intense dramas and thrilling action films like “Black Hawk Down,” “Troy,” “Hulk,” and “Munich,” many may not be aware that the 56-year-old actor’s roots are grounded in comedy. This lesser-known aspect of his career is a fascinating part of his artistic journey that deserves recognition.
Alongside his notable performances, Bana was featured in the sketch comedy series “Full Frontal” during the mid-1990s in his homeland of Australia. He also took on the role of host for a brief talk show, “The Eric Bana Show Live,” which showcased his comedic talent. This background in comedy adds another layer to his multifaceted persona.
“Much of the material I receive tends to lean towards the darker and more dramatic side, but I genuinely relish the opportunity to engage in lighter projects when they come my way,” Bana shared during an insightful appearance on the “Just for Variety” podcast. “It would certainly be enjoyable to take on more lighthearted roles, but the scripts that align with that vision are few and far between. My desk is often filled with darker narratives.”
In his latest role in Netflix’s thrilling series, “Untamed,” Eric Bana takes on the character of Kyle Turner, a skilled horse-riding special agent working for the National Park Service. His character is tasked with investigating the tragic death of a woman who falls from the iconic El Capitan in Yosemite National Park, adding a layer of complexity to the narrative.
The six-episode murder mystery plunges Kyle into a world where he grapples with his haunting past, a struggle with alcohol, and a fraught relationship with his ex-wife, Jill, portrayed by the talented Rosemarie DeWitt. The series features a stellar cast, including Sam Neill as Kyle’s boss and best friend, along with Lily Santiago, who plays a former LAPD officer transitioning to work with the park service, further enriching the storyline.
Reviewing the series, Variety TV critic Aramide Tinubu lauded the show for its “deeply layered and gripping” narrative, commending Bana’s performance as “exceptional.” This praise reflects the show’s potential to captivate audiences with its intricate plotting and character development.
This Q&A has been carefully edited for brevity and clarity. You can listen to the full conversation on the “Just for Variety” podcast above or find it on your preferred podcast platform.
What inspired your involvement in the captivating series “Untamed”?
My journey with “Untamed” began quite some time ago. I received the script back in 2019 and was instantly captivated by its narrative. The combination of the suspenseful mystery genre with thrilling elements, coupled with the breathtaking setting, truly drew me in. The concept of a character unraveling a crime by engaging with people, driving around, and following leads is a familiar trope. However, the unique twist of having a protagonist navigate this journey on horseback within a national park made it infinitely more intriguing and enjoyable. I felt a strong connection to the character of Kyle Turner from the moment I read the script. I was eager to make this project a reality, saying, “How can we make this happen? I want to portray Kyle, and what steps do we need to take?”
Did the filming take place in the stunning Yosemite National Park?
No, our filming location was set in the picturesque landscapes of British Columbia. Unfortunately, we were unable to secure the necessary access to Yosemite, particularly during the busy summer months. Instead, we captured scenes in a stunningly beautiful part of Canada that provided an equally breathtaking backdrop for the series, enhancing the overall visual aesthetic.
What was your experience like working alongside a horse on set?
Oh my goodness, the horse was an absolute sweetheart! I was tempted to take him home, but he would have exceeded my baggage allowance, without a doubt. His name was Pippin, and I fell in love with him the moment we met. He quickly became my closest companion throughout the shoot. There were moments when I had to pinch myself, riding a horse in the mountains, breathing in the fresh air, and playing such a dream role. While I have ridden horses in previous roles, the unique terrain we filmed in added a truly special element to the experience that I will always cherish.
Did you first learn to ride horses during your role in “Troy”?
That’s correct! My experience back then was quite different because we were allowed to ride bareback and without stirrups during that film. After some time, I found myself back on a horse for “The Other Boleyn Girl,” where I used a traditional saddle and stirrups, which felt quite limiting to me. It was almost as if I had to adjust to the equipment and ask, “What are these for?” I’ve noticed that every horse I ride in different countries has its own unique style, and the control techniques can vary subtly.
While reading the script for “Untamed,” were there any plot twists that surprised you?
I’m trying to recall how much Mark had shared with me beforehand, as we initially signed on with only the first episode written. The journey from episode one to receiving the green light took quite a long time, spanning several years. The second episode would come in, and then Mark would switch to another project before returning to continue working on the next script. I knew there would be clever twists and turns throughout the story, so I didn’t underestimate his writing. However, I must admit I was genuinely blown away by the character’s journey, the narrative arcs, and the intricate choices presented within the ensemble cast, which features an array of remarkable characters and talented actors.
Your character experiences the profound grief of losing a very young son. How challenging is it to portray that emotionally as a father?
These roles are invariably challenging. I find them straightforward in some respects because they resonate deeply. When a script is well-crafted, and it evokes strong emotions in me as an audience member or reader, I know it will be a powerful experience. It may be sad or uncomfortable, but it won’t be difficult to portray. I always find these roles profoundly moving, and it’s a privilege as an actor to embark on such journeys. I think, “I’m going to go through a rollercoaster of emotions, and it may hurt a bit, but that’s part of the job.” It’s an incredible honor to be entrusted with such complex characters by the writer. I remind myself, “I have to do justice to this character.” There’s always a level of pressure to meet the expectations set by the writer’s vision.
Do you ever revisit clips from your talk show?
I don’t recall much about that period since it was a brief chapter in my career. However, I often think about the sketch comedy show I worked on for an extended time. That’s just how my mind operates. Even when I’m reading a script today, I analyze the drama through the lens of a sketch comedy performer and writer. Whether I’m meeting someone for the first time, observing people, or deconstructing a script, I visualize scenarios as sketches. I can’t help the way my brain is wired. There have been times on set when I remind myself, “Oh wait, this is the real deal. We’re not just filming a comedic sketch. This is historical Troy, and I’m on horseback. This is serious.”
Was there a defining moment in your career when you thought, “I’m going to succeed in this industry”?
Interestingly, I never had that moment. I didn’t really approach my career with expectations. My plans were always short-term, spanning six to twelve months or a couple of years at most. I never looked too far ahead. If I had, I likely wouldn’t have enjoyed the successful career I have today. Such foresight could have led to decisions that might have derailed me along the way. I believe that for those with “stars in their eyes,” reality can hit hard and fast, which can be detrimental.
Was there ever a moment when you reminded your team, “Don’t forget my comedic roots”?
No, I can’t say there was. In fact, I’ve probably been as guilty as anyone else. I remember when things began to go well for me, I thought, “You know what? The last thing I want to do is try to prove people wrong. I don’t have the energy to convince them that I can be funny. I’ve already done that.” By the time I transitioned into drama, I was quite burnt out from comedy, so there was no part of me that felt the need to showcase my comedic skills. I didn’t feel the compulsion to juggle or prove anything to anyone.
Is there potential for a second season of “Untamed”?
We will have to wait and see what the future holds.
Have discussions taken place about a potential continuation?
We have contemplated what could transpire for Kyle following the events of this season in theory. However, the future remains uncertain.
What were your thoughts when it was revealed that Jill had hired someone [to kill their son’s abuser]?
That’s Rosemarie DeWitt—her performance in that episode is simply outstanding, and I was genuinely impressed by the revelation.
When Jill tells her husband, “I have something to tell you that could change everything,” what was your reaction?
I found that line to be incredibly powerful. I appreciate that it was her decision to take action rather than Kyle’s, which adds an amazing twist to the narrative. It’s a moment that leaves viewers asking, “Wait, really?” and deepens the emotional impact of the storyline.
