Suspense Rises in Hulu’s ‘Paradise’ as President’s Murder Unfolds

LOS ANGELES, CA — A gripping new series on Hulu, ‘Paradise,’ brings viewers to a seemingly perfect community disrupted by the shocking murder of its president, Cal Bradford, played by James Marsden. Shortly after the premiere on January 26, 2025, the story unfolds through the eyes of Agent Xavier Collins, who is determined to uncover the truth behind his boss’s death.

The series, created by Dan Fogelman, invites viewers into a high-stakes investigation where the lines between personal and political blur. Marsden’s portrayal of Bradford delves into the complexities of a character whose death forces a deeper exploration of his life through flashbacks, raising questions of morality and responsibility.

In an interview with Collider, Marsden shared how he landed the role after a fortuitous conversation with Fogelman at the Emmy Awards. ‘It was pretty cool… I was very flattered when he sent me the script,’ Marsden said. ‘I had always wanted to work with [Dan].’ The actor admitted the role felt daunting, explaining, ‘Cal doesn’t really want to be president. He was forced into it.’ This adds depth to Bradford’s character, allowing viewers to see not just a leader but a man grappling with his own vulnerabilities.

Throughout his journey, Marsden highlights the balance between being presidential and maintaining humanity. ‘He believes in himself, and he lets the nerds figure out the real strategic stuff,’ he stated. The narrative focuses on the president’s personal connections, particularly with Collins, which illustrates the loneliness inherent in his position.

Marsden’s reflections on playing a character who dies early in the series reveal a unique perspective on character development. ‘Everything can be more deliberate,’ he noted, discussing how the constraints of knowing Bradford’s fate shape the storytelling. ‘Cal is resigned to the idea that he might not make it.’ This acknowledgment propels the narrative, as Bradford seeks redemption through his past decisions while remaining aware of the risks they pose.

The intricate character dynamics are brought to life through significant interactions with his on-screen colleagues, particularly Sterling K. Brown, who plays Agent Collins. Marsden praised Brown’s performance, saying, ‘He can sit there and not say a word and it’s the most gripping thing you could watch.’ Their chemistry enhances the show’s emotional depth, showcasing how a man in power seeks solace and connection amidst chaos.

As the first season progresses, viewers witness a compelling drama of political conspiracies and personal dilemmas. Marsden revealed the challenges of shooting his character’s death scene, which involved lying still as his body was discovered. ‘It’s a weird thing to be laying there, pretending to be dead,’ he admitted, illustrating the unique challenges actors face in such roles.

When asked about the series finale, Marsden expressed admiration for the collaborative atmosphere fostered by Fogelman. ‘It was such a great group to work for. The writing is off the charts,’ he said. His enthusiasm hints at the possibility of future seasons, joking about a potential twist involving a long-lost twin. ‘Maybe one of the 25,000 people who was allowed to stay can start cloning people,’ he laughed.

Overall, ‘Paradise’ promises to deliver suspense and emotional depth as it navigates the complexities of power, betrayal, and redemption in an unpredictable landscape.