The second season of So Help Me Todd has kicked off with a bang, and Skylar Astin’s character, Todd, is diving headfirst into some serious drama. Astin, known for his charm and comedic timing, lobbied for a darker twist in Todd’s storyline that has fans buzzing. Let’s unpack what this all means for the show, Todd, and the dynamic between characters.
A Dramatic Return: Harry’s Impact
In the premiere episode, Todd’s reaction to the return of Harry, played by Mark Moses, is anything but lighthearted. Astin had a clear vision for Todd when Harry came back from Iceland: he wanted Todd to be driven by intense emotions, showcasing a protective side that was both relatable and alarming.
“I told [series creator] Scott Pendergast, ‘When he comes back, Todd is looking for murder, and it’s not funny,’” Astin recalls. This moment is pivotal for understanding Todd’s character and his relationship with his mother. The scene escalates during a family dinner, where Todd’s emotions boil over, leading him to smash a bottle on the table in a fit of rage.
The Stakes Are High
Astin emphasizes that this isn’t just a comedic moment; it’s a serious situation that adds “wild stakes” to the narrative. The tension crescendos over a seven-minute-long scene, a mini one-act play within the episode. It’s all about family loyalty and the lengths one would go to protect their loved ones, making the audience root for Todd even when he’s on the brink of violence.
Thanks to the clever writing and direction, the scene maintains a balance between drama and humor, allowing viewers to engage deeply with the characters without losing sight of the show’s comedic roots. Astin is grateful for how this moment was crafted, noting that Todd’s family intervenes just in time to prevent a potential disaster.
New Beginnings and Awkward Moments
Beyond the dramatic family dinner, Todd is navigating his new life as a licensed detective, adding a fresh layer to his character. He’s got a new apartment (spoiler alert: it used to be a shoe factory) and is adjusting to the idea of his sister living with him post-divorce. But just when it seems like things are going smoothly, Todd’s complex feelings towards Susan, played by Inga Schlingmann, surface in the most unexpected ways.
A Gravy Boat and a Kiss
As Susan prepares for her wedding to Peter, Todd tries to be supportive. His gesture of gifting her a gravy boat is both sweet and cringe-worthy, particularly when he leans in to place an awkward kiss on her forehead. This moment raises eyebrows and creates tension, making viewers question where Todd stands emotionally.
Astin is adamant that Todd isn’t trying to sabotage Susan’s relationship. He respects Peter and sees him as a genuinely good guy. “There’s really nothing wrong with Peter,” Astin states, reinforcing that Todd isn’t a homewrecker. However, the kiss signifies lingering feelings, adding complexity to Todd’s character and leaving fans wondering what might happen next.
Respecting Boundaries
For Susan, escaping the romantic tension with Todd opens up new avenues for character development. She’s not just tied to Todd anymore; she has her own career aspirations and challenges to face. This change allows the show to explore different facets of her character, moving beyond the typical love triangle trope.
Todd’s new working relationship with Margaret (Marcia Gay Harden) is also evolving. Their dynamic is shifting now that Todd is officially a licensed detective at the firm, which brings a new level of respect between them. Despite the changes, fans can expect the classic bickering and banter that makes their relationship so entertaining.
The Balance of Humor and Drama
One of the strengths of So Help Me Todd is its ability to balance humor and serious themes. This season, the stakes are higher, and the characters are facing real challenges that go beyond the usual comedic fare. Todd’s near-murderous rage showcases the depth of his character while allowing for comedic relief in the aftermath.
Astin notes, “They’ll always bicker, and they’ll always feel that their way of going about things is the correct way.” This blend of humor and gravity creates a rich narrative that keeps audiences engaged, allowing for moments of both laughter and reflection.
Conclusion
Skylar Astin’s portrayal of Todd in So Help Me Todd is evolving in fascinating ways this season. With Harry’s return, Todd is grappling with intense emotions, family loyalty, and awkward romantic tensions. The balance between drama and comedy keeps the show fresh and exciting, ensuring that fans are invested in each character’s journey.
As Todd navigates this tumultuous landscape, viewers are left eager to see how these relationships will unfold. Will Todd truly let go of his feelings for Susan? How will his relationship with Margaret develop now that they have a new dynamic? One thing is for sure: this season is bound to be filled with unexpected twists, laughter, and heartfelt moments.
