At first glance, <em>Once Upon a Time</em> might not have much in common with Lost. However, the two hit ABC series share commonalities. For one, characters in both shows find themselves in a world unlike their own, as they question the reality of their surroundings. It’s a feat of realistic fantasy, along with a sense of adventure. Once Upon a Time and Lost conjured dedicated fanbases in their own right, thanks to compelling storytelling, strong characterization, and mesmerizing visuals.
Some viewers have gone so far as to uncover Lost Easter eggs and references in Once Upon a Time — as it turns out, there are many. From the Storybrooke clock stuck at 8:15 (like Flight Oceanic 815) to Emma Swan’s (Jennifer Morrison) name (from Swan DHARMA Station), the inspiration is endless. But there is also one glaring commonality that should be noted: actors who have taken on roles in both shows. From Lana Parrilla to Alan Dale, this is every Lost actor who appeared in Once Upon a Time.
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Faran Tahir
Appeared as Captain Nemo
Faran Tahir‘s presence in Once Upon a Time was scarce, but still made an impact. The actor took on the role of Captain Nemo from Jules Verne’s classic sci-fi novel, Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea. Featured in just three episodes of Season 6, Captain Nemo’s story is one of redemption following the death of his family and his actions on the submarine Nautilus. It would make sense, then, that this character would interact with Captain Hook (Colin O’Donoghue), whose similar thirst for vengeance led to growth and finding purpose. Once Upon a Time‘s Captain Nemo is just one rendition in a long line of adaptations — including the beloved 1954 Disney film.
The actor’s role in Lost was even quicker, with a brief appearance in Season 4, Episode 9, “The Shape of Things to Come.” Tahir portrays Ishmael Badir, a trained assassin working under Charles Whidmore (Alan Dale). Not much is known about the character, other than that he (allegedly) killed Sayid Jarrah’s (Naveen Andrews) romantic interest, Nadia. This would lead to Badir’s death. Unfortunately, Badir did not receive the same treatment as his Once Upon a Time character.
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Robin Weigert
Appeared as Bo Peep
Things took a dark turn when Bo Peep (Robin Weigert) joined Once Upon a Time for just one episode. The fairytale character appeared in Season 4, Episode 2, “White Out.” However, the subject from the classic nursery rhyme took on a darker role as a warlord in The Enchanted Forest. There, she used her shepherds to pillage farms for land and money, coming upon Prince Charming (Josh Dallas) and his mother’s farm, where she did the same to them, ultimately losing her life to David in a duel. Tangentially, Bo Peep filled the role of butcher in Storybrooke.
Thankfully, Weigert’s character in Lost was a bit less harsh. Rachel Carlson’s battle with cancer was the motivation for much of her sister, Dr. Juliet Burke’s (Elizabeth Mitchell) fertility research. Despite her diagnosis and supposed inability to have children, Rachel did have a son — proving that there was merit in her sister’s research. Weigert’s characters do not have much in common, but she captivated audiences regardless.
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Eric Lange
Appeared as King Leopold
Unlike most characters in Once Upon a Time, King Leopold (Eric Lange) is based on a real person. This led to a more human interpretation of the figure. He is Snow White’s (Ginnifer Goodwin) father; King Leopold ruled over his people with compassion and love. However, King Leopold was somewhat disenfranchised with the evil that took place in the Enchanted Forest. This ultimately leads to the fall of the kingdom — and ushers in the events that would take place throughout Once Upon a Time.
Lange appeared as Stuart Radzinsky during Lost’s fifth season. Known as the “time jump” season, Radzinsky acted as Head of Research for the DHARMA initiative during the 1970s. Once again, Radinsky plays a strong leader among a group that teeters towards corruption. But it’s his control that allows for the creation of SWAN Station. Both of Lange’s characters fell victim to their own curiosity, and both died as a consequence. Lange is one of those actors who has appeared in many shows over the years. Although he has had many minor roles, Lange’s presence elevates any scene.
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Alan Dale
Appeared as King George
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