Over a decade after his role as a firefighter in the British series The Smoke, Taron Egerton is back portraying a fire captain-turned-arson investigator in Apple TV+’s crime series, Smoke. Inspired by actual events from Truth Media’s Firebug podcast, the show premieres in 2025 and follows the intense investigation of serial arsonists, highlighting the real dangers and complexities involved in fire-related crimes.
The Creative Partnership Between Egerton and Dennis Lehane
Taron Egerton reunites with creator and writer Dennis Lehane—known for his award-winning work on Black Bird—in Smoke. Lehane was quick to bring Egerton on board after seeing his portrayal of FBI operative Jimmy Keene, appreciating the actor’s capability in handling demanding roles. Egerton expressed deep appreciation for the trust Lehane has placed in him, noting how creatively fulfilling the character of Dave Gudson, the arson investigator, has been.
Dennis is such an esteemed, accomplished writer, as both a novelist and a screenwriter, and now as a showrunner. I think, for me, it’s hugely validating to have somebody place their confidence in you in the way that he has. I really love his work, and I love being a part of it, and I really hope it’s a relationship that continues, because these roles — both Jimmy Keene and now Dave Gudson — they are hugely challenging, creatively rewarding roles,
Egerton told Decider.
I honestly can’t imagine anything more rewarding in television. They are amazing parts to play. So I’m very grateful to him and I feel very honored to be on this ride.
How ‘Smoke’ Brings Fire Scenes to Life with Real Flames
One of the standout features of Smoke is its commitment to authenticity, especially in its depiction of fire. Dennis Lehane insisted on filming many scenes using actual fire rather than CGI. To achieve this safely, the production constructed a specialized burn stage in Vancouver where fireproof sets were created. The Vancouver fire department was on site for additional safety, although their services were never called upon. These practical effects add visceral realism to the series, with Egerton’s character trapped in a burning house featured prominently in the opening moments.
Egerton’s Thoughts on the Importance of Practical Effects Over CGI
Amid ongoing debates about AI and digital effects, Egerton praised the tangible impact of using real fire on screen. He believes that human effort invested in practical effects brings a unique weight and authenticity that computer-generated images cannot match. Reflecting on this approach, the actor emphasized the value of hard work and its deep connection to meaningful creative achievements.
I think effort is the operative word. I really think on screen, you can feel a practical effect. You can feel the weight of it. It’s why, in some respects, 10 years ago when J.J. Abrams made Star Wars: The Force Awakens, there was a lot more practical makeup and character work than there’d been in recent times with other Star Wars films. There is just something satisfying about things being done practically,
Egerton said.
I also think — and this is where I get a little bit spiritual about it — I think there is tremendous value in the human effort in something. There are endless debates around AI, and my fear, and the thing that I find a little discomforting about it, is it feels like getting too much for free. And anything good I’ve had in my life has come through hard work, and will, and effort. I’m being very flippant and I’m not really acknowledging all of the plus sides of AI, but I do also have fear around the ease of it.
Looking back on the series, Egerton reiterated his belief that these authentic fire scenes enhance the show‘s visual and emotional impact far beyond what CGI alone could deliver.
The fact of the matter is, I think there’s something really wonderful about doing things practically and I think you see it in the show,
he said.
It’s beautiful. And I would argue it’s more beautiful than were it made by a computer.
The Dynamic Between Egerton and Jurnee Smollett on Screen
Smoke also features strong chemistry between Egerton and co-star Jurnee Smollett, who plays police detective Michelle Calderone. Egerton admires Smollett’s commanding presence and the emotional depth she brings to her role. He described their characters’ relationship as complex but compelling, built on contrasting personalities and shared underlying similarities that become clearer as the story unfolds.
There’s a lot I admire in Jurnee, and it’s mainly things that I don’t possess. I think Jurnee has a formidable quality and a stoicism and a weight that I really admire, and I’m slightly jealous of. What’s interesting about our dynamics as actors and characters is Dave, and probably me to a certain extent, is a little less serious in some ways. He’s got more lightness to him and seemingly more of a jovial quality to him. Whereas Michelle Calderon is carrying this huge secret trauma that you only really understand — or even begin to understand — towards the end of the first season,
Egerton explained.
Finding that dynamic with Jurnee, finding that odd couple relationship where you have two characters that are competitive and adversarial — I can’t speak for Jurnee, but I always felt that the thing that most interests me about Dave and Michelle is that deep down, somewhere really deep, they’re the same. I called Dave a lizard a lot, and I kind of think Michelle is deep down, as well. I found that to be endlessly fascinating and we had a really time working together.
True Crime Inspiration and the Cast’s Engaging Performances
Based loosely on the true story of arsonist John Leonard Orr, Smoke’s nine-episode season combines Lehane’s intricate storytelling with a compelling ensemble cast. Alongside Egerton, Jurnee Smollett, and Dennis Lehane’s creative direction, the series stars Ntare Guma Mbaho Mwine, Greg Kinnear, Rafe Spall, Anna Chlumsky, and John Leguizamo. The strong performances maintain suspense and emotional depth, keeping viewers invested whether or not they are familiar with the underlying true events.
Egerton Reflects on His Career and the Legacy of Fire-Related Roles
Egerton views his involvement with Smoke as a meaningful milestone, reflecting on how much his life and career have evolved since his first firefighter role 13 years ago. He expressed gratitude for his opportunities and optimism about future projects, joking about the possibility of continuing the fire-related theme with another series down the road.
It does make me reflective for the past 13 years of my life now. It’s crazy, you know?
he told Decider.
I just feel very lucky to be working, and I feel very luck to have the opportunities and career that I do. I really hope it continues. Maybe in 10 years time we’ll be talking about another show…
When and Where to Watch ‘Smoke’
New episodes of Smoke premiere every Friday on Apple TV+, delivering an intense, authentic crime drama experience anchored by Taron Egerton’s praised portrayal of an arson investigator navigating complex cases and moral challenges.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Taron Egerton LGBTQ?
A. He enthusiastically said that he is not gay, but two friends opened up about being gay when he was 15. It was wonderful to support them because their group felt confident about their identities.
Q. Is Taron Egerton LGBT?
A. After losing his grandmother to motor neuron disease, he became a representative for the Motor Neurone Disease Association. When people speculated about his sexuality, Egerton clarified that while he is not gay, he finds it rewarding to support his gay friends.
