Jimmi Simpson Shares Insights On Returning To Black Mirror

Jimmi Simpson has taken to Instagram to share his gratitude for the overwhelmingly positive response to his return as Walton in the latest season of Black Mirror, offering fans a rare glimpse into the creative minds behind the popular episode.

In his Instagram post, Simpson highlighted the key team members who brought the episode to life. He specifically praised director Toby Haynes, whom he describes as leading “like Peter Pan every single scene.” Simpson noted Haynes’ skill at “guiding me when I’m lost as well as knowing when to just pull out my cork and kick me over,” suggesting the director’s balanced approach of providing direction while allowing for creative freedom.

The post also credits cinematographer Stephan Pehrsson, whom Simpson referred to as the director’s “sidekick” and a “visionary DoP [Director of Photography].” Simpson gave special recognition to two significant newcomers to the Black Mirror team this season: writer Bekka Bowling, who Simpson says “helped turn Walton to 11,” and producer Jessica Rhoades, who “cared for each episode like a doula.”

In the accompanying video, Simpson has shared a clip of his character, Walton, and co-star Cristin Milioti’s character, Nanette Cole, from the series. Simpson didn’t miss the opportunity to acknowledge Milioti, simply stating that she “makes everything better.” The pair previously worked together on the USS Callister episode of Black Mirror, which received critical acclaim and a loyal fan base.

This reunion seems to have resonated with viewers, as Simpson noted he was “overwhelmed by how many friends n folks have reached out about Walton 2.0.”

For Black Mirror fans, the return of Walton is particularly significant as the character was introduced in the USS Callister episode from a previous season. In that Emmy-winning installment, Simpson played a virtual clone trapped in a Star Trek-inspired simulation created by a resentful programmer.

Just days before this post, Simpson had shared another USS Callister-related post with the caption “Several versions of me,” tagging costars including Cristin Milioti, Billy Magnussen, and others, writing “will see ya on board the USS Callister this weekend, y’all.” This suggests Walton 2.0 may be a direct continuation or reference to the beloved episode.

Simpson has been busy beyond the Black Mirror universe. In another recent post, he promoted the film “Audrey’s Children,” describing it as “one of the most special films I’ve been a part of.” The actor has also recently been featured in a visual diary for Nineteen92 magazine, showcasing his versatility as a performer and his continued prominence in the entertainment industry.

Simpson’s return to the Black Mirror universe highlights the anthology series’ knack for bringing back beloved characters and actors in new contexts. The show has built its reputation on sharp, thought-provoking storytelling that examines the darker side of technology and human nature.

With the positive reception to Walton 2.0, it seems the latest season continues the show’s tradition of engaging audiences with compelling narratives and performances. As Netflix releases the new episodes, Simpson’s behind-the-scenes insights offer fans a deeper appreciation for the effort that goes into creating the dystopian worlds of Black Mirror.

Trivia

Jimmi Simpson graduated from the New Jersey City University with a degree in theater in 1998.

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Poulami Nag

 

Poulami is an associate editor. She did her MA in English from Miranda House, University of Delhi and has qualified UGC-NET. She also holds a PG diploma in Editing and Publishing from Jadavpur University. Her journey as a content writer began in 2017 and since then, Poulami has garnered diverse interests along the way.

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