“Is Harry dead?” The question lingers after the gripping finale of “MobLand,” which aired on June 1, concluding its first season. The Paramount+ series, featuring Tom Hardy, Pierce Brosnan, and Helen Mirren, has captivated audiences since its premiere on March 30, achieving record-breaking viewership with 2.2 million tuning in on launch day.
In a shocking climax, mob fixer Harry Da Souza, portrayed by Hardy, is stabbed in the chest by his wife Jan (Joanne Froggatt) during a heated argument. The moment leaves viewers on edge, pondering the implications for Harry’s survival.
Writer and executive producer Jez Butterworth addressed the speculation, stating, “No. We’re not gonna – We love Harry. We love Tom.” His comments suggest that Harry's journey is far from over, despite the dramatic turn of events.
Butterworth elaborated on the character dynamics, noting that Harry's struggles at home stem from his tumultuous job. “It felt satisfyingly dramatic that having walked through fire for 10 episodes, what happens at the end is the one thing he’s not expecting,” he explained.
The series revolves around the Harrigan family, led by patriarch Conrad (Brosnan), whose wife Mave (Mirren) often schemes against him. Their family dynamics are fraught with tension, particularly regarding their children—Brendan (Daniel Betts) meets a brutal end at the hands of an enemy, while Kevin (Paddy Considine) begins to assert himself.
Despite being married for over a decade, Jan struggles with Harry’s unpredictable lifestyle. Butterworth remarked, “I think in all relationships, the things that we like at first gradually drive you crazy… [Harry] is too freewheeling.” This tension highlights the emotional toll of living with constant uncertainty.
As of now, Paramount has yet to confirm a second season. However, Butterworth expressed hope for the continuation of the series, emphasizing the chaotic nature of family life. “They resemble most families, which is to say, they’re chaos,” he said.
If renewed, Butterworth aims to maintain the show's focus on the intricate relationships within the Harrigan family. He likened Harry’s role to that of a butler in a classic sitcom, navigating the chaos surrounding him.
Conrad’s leadership is marked by impulsive decisions and betrayals within his family. Butterworth noted, “I liked the idea of coming in at a point where perhaps their great days are behind them,” suggesting a narrative arc centered on legacy and decline.
The finale also saw the demise of Ritchie (Geoff Bell), an adversary whose complexity added depth to the story. Butterworth reflected on Ritchie’s character: “He was not a monster. He had a monster in him.” This nuanced portrayal adds layers to the show's exploration of morality.
“It was a sad day when I felt that Richie’s time had run out,” Butterworth admitted. He aims to extract every ounce of storytelling potential from each character arc while leaving room for future developments.
Looking ahead, Butterworth expressed his desire for “MobLand” to continue as long as it captivates audiences. “If it’s doing that, then long may it continue,” he concluded.
