Events Sport Local 2025-12-16T19:12:28+00:00

Laurence Fishburne and Billy Zane Reveal Secrets of MacGruber

The actors shared their experience working on the action-comedy. They talked about how they managed to stay serious in absurd scenes and what attracted them to the project. The series premiere is on December 17 on Universal+.


Laurence Fishburne and Billy Zane Reveal Secrets of MacGruber

Agent MacGruber is back in an exclusive series on Universal+. This is a continuation of the famous Saturday Night Live sketch and its film. The series promises to be a 'wild and crazy' mix of genres: it's a tribute to 80s action films, with shots in camera, explosions, and absurd fight scenes. At the center of the plot is a conspiracy that needs to be uncovered, and for that, a hero like MacGruber is needed. Laurence Fishburne plays General Barrett Fasoose, and Billy Zane plays Brigade Commander Enos Queeth. In an exclusive interview, the actors shared the secrets of working on the project.

Fishburne admitted that after watching the material, he 'broke out laughing' and knew he had to be a part of it. He noted that the series is simultaneously 'absurd and crazy' but also 'touching and profound.' Billy Zane, who was a fan of the original sketch, highlighted the brilliant structure of the new season. He also revealed that his character, Queeth, is taking revenge on MacGruber for a failed mission 20 years ago, where they were both presumed dead.

The actors explained how they managed to stay so serious in such absurd situations. According to them, the secret lies in an honest and believable performance. They had to approach their characters with the utmost seriousness to make the comedy truly funny. They tried to stick to the script but sometimes improvised to add authenticity to the scenes. Fishburne called working with comedic actors like Will Forte and Kristen Wiig a 'masterclass' because they are constantly learning and growing as professionals.

Billy Zane noted that Kristen Wiig is 'one of our best actresses,' and her dramatic acting makes her comedy so brilliant. He also added that comedians are underrated and rarely nominated for Oscars. Fishburne agreed with his colleague, saying that he never stops learning, especially when working with talented people.

Don't miss the premiere of the first season of MacGruber on December 17, exclusively on Universal+.