In the high-stakes world of post-apocalyptic television, Sterling K. Brown delivers a powerful performance as Xavier Collins in the second season of Paradise, a drama that delves deep into the human need for connection amidst global catastrophe. The series, which premiered its first three new episodes on February 23 on Hulu via Disney+, with weekly releases to follow, raises compelling questions about survival and the bonds that sustain us.
The Struggle for Survival and Connection
When faced with a worldwide disaster that threatens civilization, the age-old debate arises: is it better to go it alone or rely on a group? While survival shows like Man vs. Wild and Alone suggest solo endurance is possible, humans are inherently social beings. Loneliness and depression can gradually erode the will to live, making companionship not just a luxury but a necessity for long-term survival.
This fundamental need for love, belonging, and family—whether biological or chosen—drives Brown's character, Xavier Collins, in Paradise Season 2. As a secret service agent for a murdered U.S. president, Xavier was last seen residing in a vast underground bunker three years after a doomsday event. If Season 1 centered on uncovering the president's killer, Season 2 kicks off with Xavier's startling discovery that the world outside remains habitable, setting the stage for new adventures and challenges.
Unraveling Mysteries and Emotional Depth
"The president's influence over the environment, and over Xavier in particular, still looms throughout the story," Brown explains in an interview. "There will be flashbacks that show how his presence is still felt in the bunker. But Season 2 introduces fresh themes, allowing us to see how the rest of the world coped with this calamitous event."
At the heart of Xavier's journey is a poignant emotional drive: the possibility of reuniting with his wife. Brown notes, "I think that's the only thing that would've got him to leave his children—to find his partner." This quest for reconnection underscores the series' exploration of how relationships fuel resilience in the face of adversity.
Creative Synergy Behind the Scenes
Off-screen, Brown finds value in creative connections, particularly with Paradise creator Dan Fogelman, who also helmed the hit NBC drama This Is Us. Brown's portrayal of Randall Pearson in that show laid the groundwork for a trusted collaboration with Fogelman, enhancing their work on Paradise.
"There's a great deal of trust," Brown says of Fogelman. "He's an exceptional writer. Every time I read something he's written, I'm blown away and pleasantly surprised. I know he's good, but he always gets me with his words, even after 10 years of working together. He has faith in me to bring his vision to life."
Fogelman has outlined a three-season plan for Paradise, and Brown emphasizes the importance of balancing the show's intense, end-of-the-world mindset with personal well-being. "Leaving that intensity on the set at the end of the day is crucial," he adds, highlighting the emotional toll of such a gripping narrative.
As Paradise Season 2 unfolds, viewers can expect a riveting blend of action, mystery, and heartfelt drama, with Sterling K. Brown at the forefront, championing the enduring power of family and human connection in a fractured world.
