Daniel Radcliffe is moving beyond his iconic role as Harry Potter to star in a new comedy series, The Fall and Rise of Reggie Dinkins, premiering on February 23. This fresh project offers fans a chance to see Radcliffe’s comedic skills as he joins Tracy Morgan in a story about redemption and unexpected partnerships, delivering ample humor and surprises.
A Fresh Comedy Centered on Redemption and Unlikely Friendships
The Fall and Rise of Reggie Dinkins introduces viewers to Reggie Dinkins, portrayed by Tracy Morgan, a former NFL star whose career is marred by a public gambling scandal. As Reggie seeks to rehabilitate his image and possibly secure a Hall of Fame induction, he enlists Arthur Tobin, an Oscar-winning director played by Radcliffe, to document his life. Arthur himself is battling his own downfall, having lost respect after a public meltdown on a Marvel movie set. Despite their initial friction, the two men’s interactions suggest they might become essential to each other’s comebacks, with witty banter driving much of the show’s humor.
Radcliffe described the series as having a “30 Rock vibe,” highlighting its rapid-fire jokes and a mixture of humor that swings from universally appealing to niche references that might only resonate with a select few. This style captures the spirit of the show’s writers and producers, many of whom have ties to the acclaimed 30 Rock series, including Tina Fey, Robert Carlock, and Sean Means.
Daniel Radcliffe on His Comedic Approach and Influences
Daniel Radcliffe shared insights into his comedic style during an interview. He characterized his humor as “weird” and “cartoonish,” appreciating comedy that balances cleverness with outright silliness, citing the film Airplane! as a defining example. Growing up, he was inspired by British comedian Steve Coogan’s Alan Partridge character and shows like The Office and 30 Rock.
Radcliffe emphasized the importance of live comedic performance, drawing from his experience performing in the 2011 musical How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying.
“OK, it’s not working that way. If it didn’t work at the matinee, how can you try it in the evening to find a new way of working it?”
he explained, referring to the process of refining timing and delivery in front of a live audience over numerous performances. Working alongside veteran comedic actor John Larroquette also played a key role in sharpening his comedic skills.
Capturing the Signature Tone of 30 Rock in the New Series
The involvement of 30 Rock veterans was a major factor in Radcliffe’s decision to join The Fall and Rise of Reggie Dinkins. He praised the writing team’s consistency and ability to deliver high-quality humor over an extended period. The show intertwines universally funny jokes with sharp, insider references, allowing a wide audience to find something entertaining. Radcliffe noted that his character, Arthur Tobin, delivers many industry-specific jokes, especially about filmmaking, giving those familiar with the business extra laughs without alienating other viewers.
The Character of Arthur Tobin and His Journey
Arthur Tobin is a pretentious film director whose professional and personal redemption arcs unfold alongside Reggie’s. Radcliffe described Arthur as initially detached, struggling to stay objective while filming the documentary. Over time, Arthur bonds with Reggie and others, learning to abandon rigid documentary ethics while reigniting his career. This evolving relationship forms a key emotional and comedic driver for the series.
Playing Opposite Tracy Morgan: The Straight Man Role
Acting as the straight man to comedy legend Tracy Morgan presents its own challenges and rewards. Radcliffe acknowledged Tracy’s unique comedic timing and delivery, noting that some of Morgan’s lines only make sense in his distinctive style. He called working with Tracy an honor, appreciating the dynamic that emerges when he plays the serious foil to Morgan’s spontaneous energy.
Physical Comedy and Staying in Character on Set
Physical humor plays an important role in Radcliffe’s performance, drawing on his experience with stunts from the Harry Potter films. He enjoys performing real physical comedy, insisting it is more effective than pretending. The show features moments like Arthur’s on-screen breakdowns occurring off in the distance, a technique Radcliffe described as a classic comedic rule where visual chaos contrasts with dialogue happening in the foreground.
When asked about resisting laughter during takes, Radcliffe explained that the best way not to break character is to avoid ruining fellow actors’ performances. He recalled one instance when he almost laughed during a heartfelt scene performed by Morgan but managed to recover after a quick apology;
“No, I can’t ruin this beat for him. It’s so good what he is doing,”
Radcliffe said.
Choosing Roles: Balancing Comfort Zones with New Challenges
Reflecting on his career choices post-Harry Potter, Radcliffe described his approach as selecting projects that blend familiar territory with opportunities for growth. He is preparing for a Broadway play called Every Brilliant Thing, which mixes comfortable elements with parts that push his limits. Radcliffe emphasized that finding this balance between authenticity and challenge is what makes projects most exciting for him.
I know what I am bringing to this,
he said, underscoring the importance of contributing something genuine while venturing into new creative spaces.
The Wolverine Rumor and Superhero Roles
Rumors about Radcliffe potentially taking on the role of Wolverine surfaced briefly online but were never substantiated by industry insiders. Radcliffe dismissed these reports as flattering but untrue. He expressed reluctance about succeeding Hugh Jackman, acknowledging the iconic status Jackman holds with the character. Though Radcliffe is not actively seeking superhero roles, he remains open to the idea if a compelling script arises. He admits to being somewhat out of touch with the current superhero movie landscape but welcomes projects that offer something different and intriguing.
Views on Franchise Work and Industry Experience
Having spent much of his youth involved in the Harry Potter franchise, Radcliffe feels fortunate to have experienced a major franchise early in his career, granting him freedom in later choices. He respects the effort people put into big movie productions, explaining that despite enormous budgets, such projects face many challenges due to competing creative interests. Radcliffe said,
I’m not necessarily looking for a franchise, but looking for something that could give them the recognition in the industry and the kind of financability to be able to give them autonomy over other projects.
He expressed openness to returning to franchise work someday, though not immediately.
Reaction to the Upcoming Harry Potter TV Series
Radcliffe was informed just before the public casting announcements for the new Harry Potter TV series and expressed his willingness to reach out to the actor playing Harry. He shared,
I would love to write the boy playing Harry. When you have his name, if you could send me his name… I don’t need anything in advance, just let me know when it is appropriate to write to him to congratulate him and wish him luck.
Radcliffe is content to pass the torch to a new generation of actors and fans, inviting a fresh wave of questions and enthusiasm about the Wizarding World.
When and Where to Watch The Fall and Rise of Reggie Dinkins
The series will premiere on NBC on February 23 and continue its run through April. Fans can look forward to a blend of sharp writing, strong comedic performances, and the electric chemistry between Radcliffe and Morgan. As Radcliffe’s career evolves, this new comedy marks another significant step in his journey from boy wizard to leading comedic actor, promising plenty of laughs and unexpected moments.
