Apple TV+’s crime drama Smoke has captivated viewers with its unexpected twists, including a finale so surprising that lead actor Taron Egerton himself was caught off guard. The nine-part series, which premiered recently, follows Egerton as Dave Gudsen, an arson investigator working alongside detective Michelle Calderone, played by Jurnee Smollett, to track down two serial arsonists. This Taron Egerton Smoke finale twist has been a key talking point among fans and critics alike.
The Story Behind the Series and Character Development
Inspired by the True Media podcast Firebug, Smoke brings a fresh perspective to the crime drama genre. The series reveals major plot developments in its final episodes that even Egerton did not anticipate. Creator Dennis Lehane, known for works like Blackbird and Shutter Island, deliberately withheld details of Dave Gudsen’s character arc from Egerton before each script reading, a decision that the actor felt enhanced his portrayal.
At the end of the show, you realise something quite profound about Dave that I just didn’t know was coming,
Egerton said.
He noted that Lehane’s secrecy allowed him to deliberately challenge his usual acting patterns:
“Dennis really kept that from me, and it was a hugely exciting prospect for me as an actor because it means I’m kind of very wilfully playing against a type if I have one.”
I just think it’s such an interesting different piece, this show, and Dennis did something really imaginative and I’m very glad to be a part of it.
Realism Through Practical Effects and Authenticity
Lehane aimed to root the series in genuine reactions, which included keeping many plot points a secret from the cast and employing real fire effects instead of digital ones. Egerton praised the production’s use of practical fire effects, explaining that working with actual flames created a more immersive experience despite its challenges.
Well, you stink to high heavens at the end of the day,
Egerton remarked humorously about the intense smell left by the real fire during filming. He added,
“That’s the bit about it that I don’t enjoy. Gets really right into your skin, that very acrid, burny smell.”
Despite these obstacles, Egerton maintained a positive attitude about the work.
“I try to maintain a sense of wonder when I’m working and being like, holy s**t, look at what I get to do for a living. This is cool. I certainly felt that way about the fire stuff.”
It’s incredible to see people create those practical effects. It’s quite intimidating and can be quite full on. But, I’d be lying if I said I didn’t feel safe.
Heightened Presence on Set Enhances Performance
The use of real flames required Egerton and the cast to remain fully focused on set for safety and authenticity. This presence contributed to more intense and genuine performances, especially in pivotal scenes featuring fire. Egerton highlighted the importance of these moments to his character’s story.
As an actor, it really makes you feel alive and present because it’s a lot, but it just looks so amazing in camera and I was always very excited by the sequence that I’m closely involved with in that first episode with the fire, because it’s a hugely significant beat for the character.
Where to Watch and Final Thoughts
Smoke is now available for streaming on Apple TV+. The show’s compelling storytelling, combined with Egerton’s dedicated performance and Lehane’s inventive writing, make it a standout addition to the platform’s lineup. Fans looking to explore the series further can add Smoke to their watchlist on the Radio Times: What to Watch app for regular updates and recommendations.
