TIPSLIFEHACKS

The Apple TV+ comedy Platonic charmed audiences with its exploration of adult friendship and the complexities of relationships. Now, in Season 2, actor Luke Macfarlane reveals a significant shift in his character, Charlie, as he navigates the unconventional bond between his wife, Sylvia, and her best friend, Will. In an exclusive interview with UPI, Macfarlane discusses Charlie's evolving comfort level with this dynamic and what viewers can expect from the new season.

Season 1 established the core premise: Will (Seth Rogen) and Charlie (Macfarlane) reconnect after a decades-long separation and attempt to rekindle their friendship. However, the arrival of Sylvia (Rose Byrne) and her incredibly close, almost symbiotic relationship with Will introduced a layer of awkwardness and comedic tension. Charlie, initially, felt like an outsider, observing this deeply ingrained connection that predated his marriage.

“In Season 1, Charlie was definitely on the periphery, trying to understand what was going on,” Macfarlane explained. “He's a pretty grounded, rational guy, and seeing Sylvia and Will’s friendship, which is so chaotic and intense, was a bit jarring for him. It felt like he was an interloper in their world.”

But the second season sees Charlie starting to integrate more fully into this unusual friendship. “He’s finding a rhythm, a way to coexist,” Macfarlane shared. “He’s realizing that while it might be a little crazy, it's also a really important thing in Sylvia’s life, and therefore, in his life too. He's learning to appreciate the joy and energy that Will brings to their lives, even if it’s a bit overwhelming at times.”

The show’s humor largely stems from the clash between Charlie's more conventional sensibilities and the free-spirited nature of Will and Sylvia's friendship. Macfarlane described how the writers skillfully mine this contrast for comedic gold. “They really lean into the absurdity of the situation,” he said. “It’s funny to see Charlie trying to apply logic and reason to a friendship that operates on a completely different plane.”

Beyond the laughs, Platonic delves into deeper themes of connection, loneliness, and the enduring power of friendship. Macfarlane believes the show resonates with audiences because it taps into universal experiences.