Creating ‘Kaos’: Writer Charlie Covell and Star Jeff Goldblum Talk Bringing Greek Myths to Life in New Netflix Series

Netflix is set to unveil a groundbreaking new series titled ‘Kaos’ on August 29th, 2024, a show that promises to breathe new life into the age-old tales of Greek mythology. This highly anticipated series is the brainchild of Charlie Covell, the talented writer behind the acclaimed ‘The End of the F***ing World.’ The show features the iconic Jeff Goldblum as Zeus, a character reimagined with a modern twist. Goldblum’s Zeus is depicted as an aging, sexually promiscuous, and paranoid king, grappling with the challenges of maintaining control over his sprawling family and empire. This fresh take on Zeus is just one of the many ways ‘Kaos’ aims to make ancient myths relevant to contemporary audiences.

Charlie Covell has been fascinated by Greek mythology since childhood, and her passion is evident in the depth and complexity of ‘Kaos.’ She believes that the themes explored in these ancient stories—power, abuse of power, love, death, family, and dysfunctional family dynamics—are timeless and continually resonate with audiences. Covell has spent years developing the show, meticulously crafting a narrative that blends fantasy with modern-day elements. The result is a series that feels both epic and intimate, grandiose yet deeply human.

‘Kaos’ stands out not only for its ambitious storytelling but also for its unique visual style. The gods are portrayed in modern clothing, with Zeus donning a lightning bolt-embroidered tracksuit, a stark contrast to the traditional depictions of these deities. The show features a mix of settings, from the majestic Mount Olympus to the underworld and even modern-day Crete. This blend of ancient and contemporary elements creates a rich, immersive world that invites viewers to see Greek mythology through a new lens.

The cast of ‘Kaos’ is as impressive as its premise. Alongside Jeff Goldblum, the series stars Janet McTeer as Hera, Zeus’ wife, who must navigate the treacherous waters of her husband’s growing paranoia. Nabhaan Rizwan plays Dionysus, Zeus’ rebellious son, who leads a hedonistic lifestyle that threatens to upend the divine order. Other notable characters include Poseidon, more concerned with his yacht than the turmoil among the gods, and Hades, struggling to maintain control over the restless souls of the dead. The show also features modern retellings of classic myths, such as Orpheus and Eurydice, with Orpheus portrayed as a rock star.

One of the most intriguing aspects of ‘Kaos’ is its exploration of the gods’ human-like flaws and emotions. The series takes a comedic approach to the idea of immortal beings grappling with neuroses, jealousy, and existential crises. This irreverent take on Greek mythology adds a layer of relatability and humor, making the gods more accessible and less distant. Actress Janet McTeer sees the show as a commentary on power dynamics in society, highlighting how the corruption of power is a timeless issue that transcends eras and cultures.

Covell’s vision for ‘Kaos’ was initially conceived as an immersive theater piece, but it evolved into a television series that retains its theatrical roots. The underworld, for instance, is depicted as a bureaucratic and mundane place, a reflection of the show’s blend of grandeur and absurdist humor. This creative decision underscores the show’s ability to balance epic storytelling with moments of levity and satire, offering a fresh perspective on well-known myths.

The journey to bring ‘Kaos’ to the screen has been a long and arduous one. Originally, Hugh Grant was slated to play Zeus, but scheduling conflicts led to Jeff Goldblum stepping into the role. Goldblum was drawn to the project by the timelessness and depth of Greek myths, and his portrayal of Zeus promises to be one of the highlights of the series. His unique blend of charisma and eccentricity is perfectly suited to this reimagined version of the king of the gods.

While ‘Kaos’ may not please mythology purists, Covell’s aim was never to create a faithful retelling of the classical stories. Instead, she wanted to make Greek mythology accessible and engaging for a modern audience. By infusing the ancient tales with contemporary elements and humor, Covell hopes to introduce these timeless stories to a new generation. The show’s irreverent tone and bold reimaginings are sure to spark discussions and debates among viewers.

As the release date approaches, anticipation for ‘Kaos’ continues to build. The series has been followed closely on social media, with fans eager to see how Covell and her team have brought these iconic myths to life. The trailer, shared on X, offers a tantalizing glimpse of the show’s unique blend of comedy, drama, and mythology. With its star-studded cast, ambitious storytelling, and innovative visual style, ‘Kaos’ is poised to be one of the standout releases of the year.

Looking ahead, Covell has plans for future seasons of ‘Kaos,’ with a wealth of ideas to explore within the rich tapestry of Greek mythology. While the first season can stand alone as a complete narrative arc, there is plenty of fertile ground for further storytelling. Goldblum, too, is eager to continue his journey as Zeus, intrigued by the character’s complexities and the show’s potential for growth. The world of ‘Kaos’ is vast and filled with possibilities, promising more adventures and revelations in the seasons to come.

In the broader context of television, ‘Kaos’ is part of a larger trend of renewed interest in Greek mythology. From Disney+’s ‘Percy Jackson and the Olympians’ to Apple TV+’s ‘Time Bandits,’ ancient myths are finding new life on the small screen. Netflix’s ‘Kaos’ stands out as the most ambitious of these projects, offering a daring and original take on the gods of Olympus. The show’s success could pave the way for more mythological adaptations, continuing the tradition of storytelling and retelling that has kept these tales alive for centuries.

Ultimately, ‘Kaos’ is more than just a retelling of Greek myths; it is a reflection of the human condition. By portraying the gods as flawed and vulnerable, the series highlights the universal themes that have made these stories endure. Power, love, jealousy, and the struggle for control are issues that resonate as deeply today as they did in ancient times. Through its innovative approach and compelling characters, ‘Kaos’ invites viewers to see themselves in the gods, reminding us that, despite their divine status, they are not so different from us after all.