‘The Bastard Executioner’: Matthew Rhys discusses FX project, ‘mystery’

There are not many other shows out there quite like “The Bastard Executioner,” at least in that few manage to generate the same sort of insane hype as this one has without it even premiering yet. Then again, consider the pedigree here. It is another product of “Sons of Anarchy” creator Kurt Sutter, and he has everyone from fellow executive producer / frequent director Paris Barclay to Katey Sagal on board this show. He is filming the pilot now in Wales, which provides an opportunity to see a very different sort of setting and universe than one that we’re used to on American television.

Also, it presents many great actors for Welsh actors, whether it be ones that you’ve heard of, or ones that will be completely new. Matthew Rhys falls more in the former category. You know him as Philip from “The Americans,” but what Rhys is really looking forward to here is a chance to tell a story that allows him not to change up his accent so much. Take a look at what he had to say about the series to WalesOnline:

“The fact that something of this size and caliber is being filmed in Wales, and they’re not just using its location as a backdrop — the series itself is set in Wales, and it’s taking a lot from Welsh history. Purely and simply, just to be able to use my own native accent is a real luxury … They’ve been shrouded in mystery over there. They’ve been very tight-lipped about the script and the plot. I think we’re keeping it as secret as possible.”

Secrecy is another luxury that Sutter specifically has. With the success of “Sons of Anarchy,” there is no pressing need to have to explain every finer detail of this show. What he needs to do is simply create a good product, and then let FX’s marketing team (one of the best of any network out there) do their job to make sure it is promoted.

“The Bastard Executioner” does not have a premiere date yet, but we are hoping for the fall. Head over here to see some of our other latest news on the subject, or sign up to snag some other TV updates on everything we cover via our CarterMatt Newsletter. (Photo: FX.)