The actor appeared “almost nude” in the opening sequence of Season 2, based on the award-winning novels by Isaac Asimov, “Foundation” chronicles a band of exiles on their monumental journey to save humanity and rebuild civilization amid the fall of the Galactic Empire.
Season 2 of Foundation, the ambitious AppleTV+ adaptation of Isaac Asimov’s epic science fiction saga, began in grand fashion on Friday with an intimate, intense scene featuring galactic clone emperor Cleon, also known as Brother Day, portrayed by Lee Pace.
The fast-paced sequence commences with Cleon and his devoted robot aide Eto (Laura Birn) in bed, only to face a sudden onslaught of assassins, forcing the emperor to defend his life while nearly unclothed. In a recent interview with Entertainment Weekly, Pace candidly shared his experience during the shoot, stating that he was “quite exposed” throughout the scene.
“I don’t mind being in such a state,” he remarked. “Despite the crowded set, I remained respectful and didn’t make a fuss about it. It’s not like I wore shorts between each take.”
Lee Pace
Pace clarified that he had some coverage, presumably a modesty garment, during the physically demanding scene, and he conveyed a relaxed perspective on the matter: “It’s just a body; that’s how I see it.”
In the end, Pace perceives the unclothed altercation as a valuable piece of visual storytelling, providing the audience with insights into Brother Day’s character.
“It’s like a whimsical prologue, a condensed tale that captures the essence of Cleon,” he elucidated. “There’s an undeniable element of violence, but it’s complemented by this heightened aesthetic… Cleon is inherently a warrior; he revels in both receiving and delivering blows. We had the opportunity to rehearse the moments where he exudes confidence, savoring the thrill of the fight. Then, as he gets injured and fears for his life, he still retains his fighting spirit. Eventually, in a moment of unwarranted arrogance, he proclaims, ‘You can’t touch me. I’m invincible.’ Yet, it’s in this hubristic moment that a knife slashes his chest. So, within the scene, we aimed to craft a micro-narrative. It felt like being part of a play. We practiced the entire fight multiple times to truly internalize it before shooting.”
Recently, Pace has been flaunting his well-toned physique at fashion shows and premiere parties for the second season of Foundation, ushering in an official sleeveless era for the actor.
Joining the cast for Foundation’s second season are returning actors Lou Llobell as Gaal Dornick, Jared Harris as Hari Seldon, Leah Harvey as Salvor Hardin, Terrence Mann as Brother Dusk, Cassian Bilton as Brother Dawn, and Laura Birn as Demerzel.
After a flawlessly executed first season, we are eagerly anticipating this exciting new chapter in the Foundation TV series.
Mark your calendars! Foundation season two is set to premiere on July 14, exclusively on Apple TV+.