Taron Egerton Apple TV crime series fans have much to celebrate with the release of his latest show, Smoke, on Apple TV+, but attention continues to build around his earlier true crime project on the same platform. Both of these series showcase Egerton’s versatility, as he steps into complex characters navigating high-stakes investigations and deep emotional turmoil.
Egerton Shines in Leading Roles Across Apple TV+ Crime Series
Taron Egerton’s dynamic career stretches from his acclaimed performance as Eggsy in the Kingsman franchise to portraying Elton John in Rocketman, a biopic that tested his dramatic and musical talents. While those films gained widespread attention, it’s been his ventures into true crime on Apple TV+ that are redefining his place in television drama. In Smoke, Egerton plays Dave Gudsen, partnering with Jurnee Smollett’s Detective Michelle Calderon as they pursue arsonists triggering an alarming wave of fires along the West Coast. Rooted in shocking real events and a popular podcast, Firebug, Smoke amplifies tension through its gripping narrative and intense character work.
Yet, Egerton delivered a similarly arresting performance in an Apple TV+ series from three years ago—a series that some critics argue surpasses even his latest project. This earlier work not only displayed his acting depth but cemented the platform as a stronghold for compelling crime stories.
‘Black Bird’: Raising the Bar in the True Crime Genre
Before Smoke arrived, Egerton captivated audiences in Black Bird, a 2022 Apple TV+ miniseries that dives into the darkest corners of real-world crime. Taking on the role of James “Jimmy” Keene, Egerton brought to life the true story of a convicted drug dealer faced with a daunting deal: infiltrate a psychiatric prison, bond with suspected murderer Larry Hall, and extract the locations of the killer’s victims to secure his own release. The potential danger for Keene is intense, as every moment inside risks exposure, harm, or failure.
The real-life inspiration of Black Bird contributed significantly to its authenticity, and the true James Keene played an active role in developing the narrative. The series not only highlights the moral ambiguity of going undercover in a prison facility but also explores the profound psychological toll extracted from such a dangerous assignment. Egerton’s transformation for this part impressed both viewers and critics, complimented by a strong ensemble cast, including Paul Walter Hauser as the enigmatic Larry Hall.
The Standout Success of ‘Black Bird’ on Rotten Tomatoes
Despite not achieving the same mainstream popularity as blockbuster films like Kingsman: The Secret Service or Rocketman, Black Bird soared with critics and became Egerton’s highest-rated project to date. On Rotten Tomatoes, the series boasts a remarkable 98% critic approval rating, outpacing Rocketman’s 91% and far surpassing the 73% garnered by the more recent Smoke.
Further cementing its legacy, Black Bird accumulated major accolades. Paul Walter Hauser received an Emmy Award for Best Supporting Actor, while the show itself collected honors such as the Critics’ Choice Award and a Golden Globe. Egerton was recognized with nominations for Best Actor by the Golden Globes, the Screen Actors Guild, and the Emmys. The ensemble also included memorable performances from Ray Liotta and Greg Kinnear, lending the series even more gravitas.
What Set ‘Black Bird’ Apart from Other Crime Dramas
The critical acclaim for Black Bird centered on its powerful performances and unrelenting sense of suspense. Paul Walter Hauser’s portrayal of Larry Hall stood out as a haunting and unforgettable performance, while Egerton’s navigation of Jimmy Keene’s perilous journey gave the show an emotional depth rarely matched in the genre. The series adeptly examined the moral sacrifices and threats involved in going undercover, set against the backdrop of America’s prison landscape.
Much of the praise also went to Dennis Lehane, the show’s developer and writer, whose previous reputation as a crime novelist translated seamlessly to the screen. Lehane’s stewardship created a series that balanced meticulous crime storytelling with evocative psychological exploration, elevating the Apple TV+ true crime lineup. Notably, Lehane also collaborated with Egerton on Smoke, uniting again to deliver gripping, character-driven crime stories.
Black Bird’s tightly constructed six-episode arc, visually striking style, and layered script further distinguished it within a crowded market full of true crime content. The commitment from everyone involved resulted in a show with both mass appeal and critical respect.
Looking Ahead: The Impact of Egerton’s Crime Series on Apple TV+
The ongoing success of Taron Egerton Apple TV crime series, from Smoke to Black Bird, signifies a meaningful evolution in the streaming landscape’s approach to crime dramas. By grounding these series in true stories and anchoring them with emotionally charged performances, Apple TV+ sets a new standard for quality within the genre. Egerton’s collaborations with celebrated figures like Dennis Lehane and his work alongside co-stars such as Jurnee Smollett, Paul Walter Hauser, Ray Liotta, and Greg Kinnear reinforce the depth of talent that drives these projects. As audiences continue to seek intense, thought-provoking entertainment, the acclaim and recognition gained by Black Bird, amplified by its 98% Rotten Tomatoes score, suggest that Apple TV+ and Egerton are likely to remain central figures in the future of true crime storytelling.
