Inside the Enigmatic Connection Between Luke Macfarlane and Rose Byrne: Exclusive Insights and Season 2 Hopes

WARNING: Spoilers ahead for the season 1 finale of Platonic on Apple TV. The first season of Platonic concluded on a positive note, with the characters Will and Sylvia (played by Seth Rogen and Rose Byrne) finding contentment in their personal and professional lives. Despite the underlying tension fueled by Sylvia's husband Charlie (portrayed by Luke Macfarlane), the show stayed true to its title, with the best friends never crossing into a romantic relationship. In this 10-episode comedy created by Francesca Delbanco and Nicholas Stoller, the story delves into the repercussions of these two friends reconnecting during a difficult period and unintentionally causing upheaval in their lives.

Macfarlane's portrayal of Charlie depicts him as a compassionate and level-headed spouse, yet he struggles to maintain composure throughout the series. As Sylvia becomes more intertwined in Will's life, Charlie feels alienated from his wife's innermost thoughts, leading him to seek solace with his coworker Vanessa. Fortunately, the main characters were able to reconcile in time for the season 1 finale, prompting speculation about the future of the Sylvia-Wil dynamic now that their lives are back on track.

Screen Rant interviewed Macfarlane regarding the collaborative bond in his previous project, Bros, which ultimately resulted in his ideal selection for Platonic casting. Additionally, Macfarlane shared cherished recollections involving co-stars Rose Byrne and Seth Rogen, while also offering insights into potential developments for a second season.

Luke Macfarlane Talks Platonic Season 1 Finale

Screen Rant: Upon hearing that Platonic was not only written by Nick Stoller but also featured your involvement, I couldn't help but anticipate something truly extraordinary. Could you share with us the connection between the two projects and your experience collaborating with Nicholas?

Luke Macfarlane: It's fascinating how unpredictable the trajectory of a career can be in this industry. I was initially cast in Bros quite a while ago, but unfortunately, the pandemic forced a halt to production. We were uncertain if the film would ever resume, but Nick and I maintained communication. I genuinely enjoyed working with him, as well as developing a positive rapport with Billy [Eichner], which I believe greatly contributed to the success of the movie.

When we eventually resumed filming, almost two years had passed since my initial audition - an incredibly lengthy delay, especially when physical appearance is a vital aspect of the character. Amidst the pandemic's challenges, I had to find suitable places to exercise, fully aware that the story required me to be in good shape and appear shirtless.

Nick was amazing. While we were shooting, we had a great connection, and I was aware that he was pitching the show to Apple and they had a strong interest in Rose. I knew Rose had a strong desire to work with Seth, and beyond that, I didn't know much. I didn't really think about whether there was a role for me or not, I just focused on my work. However, later on, Nick and Francesca [Delbanco], his wife and co-creator, reached out to me via email and asked if I would be interested in playing the character of Charlie.

Initially, I assumed it would be a gay role, but Nick clarified that Charlie was actually the husband of Rose Byrne's character. It was a great opportunity. I believe they saw something in me that was different from the character I portrayed in "Bros." Nick also told me something that has stuck with me, which was, "Why not continue working with people you enjoy collaborating with?" We had a fantastic experience working on "Bros," so that's how this role came to me.

It's clear that the name Platonic would suggest that the show is not platonic. Because of this, I always feel anxious for Charlie in each episode. Did you have all the scripts in front of you from the beginning, allowing you to know the ending? Or were you also feeling nervous along with me?

Luke Macfarlane: No, I knew how it was going to end, so we had a special advantage. The team started working on it a while ago, and we actually filmed multiple episodes together. We would shoot three episodes at a time. Before we started filming in blocks, the entire cast gathered and read through the scripts. It's a rare and wonderful opportunity on TV to know where the entire story is heading, which is fantastic.

That also allows you to lead up to your regrettable decision to engage in dry humping with Vanessa. I am relieved by how Sylvia and Charlie resolved the situation, but do you think there is more to it? Do they require therapy or counseling sessions in the future? What is their current status?

Luke Macfarlane: One thing that stands out about them as a couple is their genuine understanding of each other. It's a common occurrence in relationships where you become so reliant on someone that you unintentionally overlook their importance.

I believe Charlie is capable of forgiving her quickly, and I found it remarkable how swiftly he resolved his moment of acting out. He immediately ended the unusual make-out session and informed his wife. I view this as a sign of a healthy relationship. We all make mistakes; the key is to communicate with our partner and have trust that they will understand. This makes me believe that they are genuinely in a good place.

The final moments of the finale demonstrate that everyone is content. They are so content that it makes me wonder if a season 2 is possible, despite my desire for more.

Luke Macfarlane is optimistic about the future, as there are ongoing discussions. However, he does not have much information beyond that. He expresses great curiosity about the potential outcome. In a casual conversation with a friend, he playfully suggested the idea of a platonic relationship in an alternate universe, similar to the concept of "American Horror Story." Although he believes this may not align with their plans, he finds the idea entertaining to bring together a diverse group of characters in an entirely different setting.

One fun thread is the alien drop in the finale. You could go somewhere with that. Charlie was ready to research that, too, it seems.

Luke Macfarlane: He possesses a nerdy side, you know? He possesses a desire to believe, and I believe it was also a moment where he yearned to experience the same excitement as his wife. However, I am convinced that he has had a history with telescopes, without a doubt.

Do you have a cherished memory from the set with either Rose or Seth or perhaps both?

Luke Macfarlane expressed his admiration for both actors' comedic talents and considered it an honor to collaborate with them. He appreciated how they had distinct approaches to their craft and personal lives. Reflecting on his experience working with Rose, he recalled a scene where he apologized to her while she was in bed. Despite the seriousness of the moment, her sincerity and playful delivery made him burst into laughter. Specifically, she amusingly asked him, "Do you love her? Do you looooove her?"

Seth is amazing; he exudes such a powerful presence. I recall having to remind myself not to be intimidated by him, and I believe it greatly benefited their unique dynamic. It was fascinating for Charlie as well. I couldn't help but wonder, "Why? Why are you so scared of him? He's just an ordinary person." So, I believe it worked out exceptionally well for me.

One of my cherished moments was when Charlie discovered that Jessipa was actually Gandalf. It was a mixture of heartbreak and hilarity. There's a delicate balance that needs to be maintained when Charlie is genuinely sincere, yet it becomes amusing to witness. How do you accomplish that?

Luke Macfarlane believes that the mark of exceptional writing is when the characters are well-developed and consistent in their actions. The audience can easily understand each character and their expected behavior in various situations. This is a testament to good writing, as the characters feel authentic and react accordingly in any given scenario.

For example, it was predictable that Charlie would approach the situation with a calm and logical mindset, while still conveying a hint of seriousness and concern. The writing made it effortless for the actors to portray their roles, allowing them to simply immerse themselves in the scene, even if it meant sitting alone in a dimly lit room with a solitary lamp overhead.

I recently learned that you had to decline a role in the movie Barbie for Platonic. Initially, I was extremely disappointed and felt it was a terrible loss. However, Platonic is such an amazing project that there is no need to fret about it.

Luke Macfarlane: I understand. I am really enthusiastic about Barbie as well. I'm genuinely thrilled for that film. I believe Greta Gerwig is incredibly talented. It's a wonderful opportunity for someone who has been toiling in the industry for a long time. It would have been great if you could have done both, but oh well.

About Platonic

"Platonic" explores the story of two former best friends, Seth Rogen and Rose Byrne, as they navigate their way through midlife and reconnect after being apart for a long time. Their friendship takes center stage and hilariously wreaks havoc on their lives. Catch all 10 episodes of the first season of "Platonic" on Apple TV+.