‘Interview With the Vampire’: Rolin Jones on Season 2’s finale; what’s next for Louis and Lestat

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As someone who has had the privilege of being a part of bringing Anne Rice’s beloved “Interview with the Vampire” to life on television, I can’t express enough how deeply connected I feel to this project and the impact it has had on generations of readers. Growing up, I was always drawn to the darker, more complex characters in literature, but nothing quite prepared me for the intricacy and depth of Anne Rice’s world.

This article contains spoilers for Season 2 finale of “Interview With the Vampire.”

Initially, Rolin Jones, currently the showrunner for AMC’s “Interview With the Vampire,” wasn’t familiar with the Anne Rice novels that inspire the television show.

In the year 2020, he initially held talks with AMC executives regarding potential shows to create for their network. As he was about to conclude the meeting, an executive mentioned in passing that AMC had recently obtained the rights to Rice’s literature – would he be intrigued?

“During a recent Zoom conversation, Jones shared that her true intention was to create a heartfelt romance and an impressive production. She hoped to be given the opportunity to bring about a David Lean-esque masterpiece.”

Jones, known for his successful stints on popular TV shows such as “Friday Night Lights,” “Boardwalk Empire,” and the modern “Perry Mason,” discovered Rice’s first novel, “Interview With the Vampire.” He also watched the 1994 film adaptation featuring Tom Cruise and Brad Pitt. Realizing significant differences in his vision for the series compared to the movie, Jones underwent a thorough assessment by AMC executives to shape the show’s potential concept.

Jones expressed that they had no interest in merely the pilot episode or just Season 1. Instead, they were eager to discover the essence of this production and its potential longevity.

Fans have now accessed two highly praised seasons of the gothic horror series where Jacob Anderson portrays Louis de Pointe du Lac and Sam Reid embodies Lestat de Lioncourt as the lead vampires. The final episode of season 2 aired on Sunday, concluding Louis’ narrative of sharing his human and supernatural existence with journalist Daniel Molloy, played by Eric Bogosian.

As a voracious reader and devoted fan of Anne Rice’s “Vampire Chronicles,” I have spent countless hours immersed in the captivating world of the undead. With each turn of the page, I found myself enthralled by the complex characters and their moral dilemmas. So when I heard that FX’s new adaptation of “Interview with the Vampire” would feature Delainey Hayles as child vampire Claudia and Assad Zaman as 500-year-old coven leader Armand, my excitement knew no bounds.

After hiding their connection to Lestat, Louis and Claudia are eventually uncovered and face a trial for violating various “sacred rules” that all vampires must follow. The final episode on Sunday, titled “And That’s the End of It. There’s Nothing Else,” explores the consequences of Claudia’s death. Louis sets fire to the theater, eliminating many members of the coven in the process. He later discovers that Lestat was the one who intervened during their trial, prompting him to rekindle his harmful relationship with his past lover.

Sam Reid as Lestat De Lioncourt in Season 2 of AMC’s “Interview With the Vampire.”
(Larry Horricks / AMC)

On Wednesday, it was announced that the show will have a third season, primarily based on Rice’s “The Vampire Lestat” where Lestat regains control of his story as a rockstar (During the interview, Jones excitedly displayed his annotated copy of the book). This decision follows Jones signing a new multi-year contract with AMC Studios.

In an interview with The Times, Jones discussed Delainey Hayles taking over the role of Claudia from Bailey Bass as the new cast member for Season 2. He also touched upon the intricate relationship between Louie, Armand, and Lestat. Furthermore, he shared some insights into the storylines that will unfold in Season 3 and beyond during this engaging conversation. (These excerpts have been carefully selected from their dialogue.)

How are you feeling after wrapping up Season 2?

Take a peek at Jacob Anderson’s initial scene in Season 1 and his final appearance in Season 2. The transformation in his visage will leave you speechless, showcasing the dedication and effort put into the production over the past three and a half years. It was an exhilarating yet taxing culmination of our journey, which faced numerous challenges. The outcome wasn’t guaranteed; we encountered more than just writers’ and actors’ strikes. Various unforeseen setbacks occurred during our voyage, leaving us uncertain if we would make it to the finish line.

In Season 2, some scenes were re-filmed as the storyline revolves around Louis struggling with his memories. Which account of what happened is trustworthy?

I was about to suggest, Molloy, that you give Lestat’s account a listen. At the time, I believed I was clinging to the heroic narrative, or perhaps it was my own perspective that had become fractured.

In simpler terms, the TV series “Louie” follows Louie’s journey towards acceptance and resolution. Despite his complicated past, he ultimately decides to travel back to New Orleans to find Lestat. There’s no ambiguity in this choice. Instead, there are brief moments of remorse, forgiveness, and the start of healing. What makes the show intriguing is its portrayal of complex emotions.

What made you certain that Delainey Hayles was the best choice for Claudia, given that Hayes took over from Bass who departed unexpectedly last year due to unforeseen circumstances?

As a dedicated cinema enthusiast, I’m thrilled to share an experience I once had. We were fortunate enough to have an exceptional casting director on board, who invited no less than four gifted actors for an audition. Each one of them left us impressed. The plan was simple: we would head to our favorite restaurant and deliberate over the actors we had seen.

Jacob Anderson as Louis De Point Du Lac and Delainey Hayles as Claudia, who joined the series for Season 2.
(Larry Horricks / AMC)

We all know Claudia is dead now. Was there ever a version where she lived?

Anne penned the book as a means of coping with the grief over the loss of her child. The modifications we made to the storyline were carefully considered and fiercely debated before being implemented. Above all, we aimed to respect the essence of the novel. Consequently, Claudia’s survival was never an option. Instead, our focus was on crafting a death scene that would fittingly capture the character’s spirit – be it beautiful, haunting, or painful. Although Claudia may linger in the series for a while longer.

Would you agree that she was defiant in her last moments?

Asserting her defiance, she stands out among the vampires presented thus far for her unyielding aggression and predatory nature, akin to a true vampire in every sense. Her toughness and ferocity are undeniable.

Additionally, there was a significant love triangle among the vampires during this season. What are your thoughts on the public’s response to their interconnected romantic feelings?

It’s fascinating how the response to the show seems to excite and frustrate people in equal measure. Each viewer gets to connect with their favorite vampire character and express their displeasure towards those they don’t relate to. Our writing team didn’t pass judgment; instead, we focused on bringing Anne’s complex and flawed characters to life.

People find it difficult to understand how Louis was able to forgive Armand for betraying him in the recent episodes. In simpler terms, the audience is struggling to accept this turn of events in the story.

In our writing session for Season 2, we collectively read aloud Part 2 and Part 3. A scene that deeply affected us was Armand’s speech at the embankment, where he expresses his long-standing commitment to Louis and feels unappreciated for it. Our goal was to humanize Armand instead of portraying him as a one-dimensional antagonist. We aimed to make him relatable and evoke empathy from our audience.

I’ve come to the realization that Armand exhibits two significant moments of vulnerability in the series. In Episode 6, there was a possibility for him to confess his feelings and propose an escape with Louie: “Let’s leave this behind and start a new life together.” However, he didn’t do so until Episode 8. When faced with the decision between his coven, who had been by his side for centuries, and Louie, Armand questioned his own value. Re-watching their kiss scene, he pondered, “Can Louie truly live without me? What’s my role here?” Our writers’ room is not about passing judgment; instead, we aim to create intricately flawed characters, allowing viewers to connect with their complexities.

Rolin Jones on Armand’s (Assad Zaman) feelings toward Louie: “This guy can live without me. What am I doing?”
(Larry Horricks / AMC)

Have you been satisfied with Lestat’s developments this season? We find him living as a recluse in New Orleans now, many years after helping Louis.

The way this season is crafted leaves the viewers yearning for Lestat’s perspective, which Louis is gradually recalling but hadn’t emphasized forcefully before. I’m content with how we concluded their storylines. There’s still much to explore. At the moment, they aren’t an item and there are more dramatic directions to take. Fans are eager for ten seasons of this series. We won’t be rushing the ending or merging things carelessly. That’s not in the plan.

Does Louis find peace at the end?

for Jacob Anderson, a seemingly insignificant line stood out to him throughout the entire season, which he based his performance on; this occurred during his telepathic exchange with Molloy towards the end, when he expressed concern for Louis by saying, “I’m worried about you,” but then reassured the cameras, “I’m fine.” For Jacob, this was the first instance where he truly believed that the words coming from his character accurately reflected his own emotions.

In the finale of Episode 8, the camera focuses on his expression as he declares, “I rule the night,” signaling fresh tales to be told about him. His demeanor exudes confidence and resilience. The major part of his past issues has been resolved. Rest assured, Louis isn’t departing from this series!

What will Season 3 look like?

Lestat transforms into a renowned rock musician. We’ll build upon this concept and are thrilled about possibly collaborating with Daniel Hart, who has composed the music for the initial two seasons. Our aim is to surpass “Hedwig and the Angry Inch” and “Rocky Horror Picture Show.” We’re ready to create a captivating pop anthem.

Anything else you would like to mention?

As I delve deeper into Anne Rice’s literature, I’m starting to comprehend the profound affection her devoted fans have for these books. Many artists involved in our production expressed how the novel’s atmosphere influenced their decision to come out. These books hold significant meaning for people, and I feel incredibly fortunate and grateful to be a part of introducing this legacy to a new audience at this moment in time.

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2024-07-18 19:42