July 25, 2009 San Diego, CA
Article and photos copyright Suzanne Philips
Article and photos copyright Suzanne Philips
The cast and creators of FOX’S hit show “FRINGE” stopped by the 2009 Comic Con to talk about Season 2 and answer questions from fans. This year saw more than double the number of attendees as last year – a fact which amazed the panel. John Noble (Walter), Josh Jackson (Peter), Anna Torv (Olivia), Jasika Nicole (Astrid), Creators Roberto Orci and Alex Kurtzman and Writer Jeff Pinker were all in attendance at this packed event.
Much of the discussion focused on Season 2 and the direction in which the characters are headed. Roberto Orci summed up the changes, “Everyone is taking control and focus of their lives in a way that they didn’t before. They are now responsible for their own actions. A war is coming…..which side will you take?”
Star Josh Jackson who plays Peter Bishop mused on his characters evolution this season: “This season the character decides that he really does want to be here. He really does love his father even if he doesn’t want to admit it.
He has a sense of purpose for the first time in his life. He is becoming a man through this process.”
Walter Bishop, played by Australian actor John Noble, is a quirky and often funny character who has some deep secrets. Fans wanted to know how difficult it was to play the delicate balance between mental illness and genius. “I try to play every moment truthfully. Walter doesn’t know he is being funny. I don’t think Walter is that weird. I don’t know what that says about me. (Laughs)”
Some of the questions that everyone wants answered concern the alternate reality that we have only gotten small glimpses of during the season. One fan asked if the characters were going to meet their alternate reality selves onscreen. Actress Anna Torv (Olivia) says “I pray” and crosses her fingers. John Noble gives the thumbs up, implying that we might see this happen.
Leonard Nimoy has long been a Sci-Fi legend and fans are overjoyed to see him playing William Bell on “FRINGE”. Creator Roberto Orci was asked if Nimoy might be returning for more episodes of the show. “He will be on the show as often as he likes.” Thunderous applause erupted in the 4,500 seat hall as fans showed their appreciation.
Much has been made of the decision to place William Bell’s alternate reality office inside the Twin Towers building in New York. The creators wanted to immediately create an alternate reality and knew that the image of the Twin Towers still standing would accomplish this in short order. They really thought that they couldn’t do it, that it was too fresh in people’s minds. ” It’s such an iconic event, such a tragic event. Everyone remembers it.” says Orci. “Seeing the towers immediately makes you know that you are in an alternate reality. In the end, it’s impactful and very respectful.”
You can catch new episodes of Fringe starting Thursday, September 17th at 9pm on Fox.
