What would you choose if you had a choice? Sailing the seven seas with the deadly Blackbeard or enjoying a life of luxury sailing with Stede Bonnet, the Gentleman Pirate? We spoke with the cast and creators behind the new HBO Max series Our Flag Means Death, which stars Rhys Darby as Stede Bonnet, aristocratic and generally friendly gentleman pirate, and Taika Waititi as Blackbeard, the infamously bloodthirsty pirate. Created by David Jenkins with Jenkins, Waititi, Garret Basch, and Dan Halsted executive producing, the pirate series is full of moments of comedy, adventure, and danger.
Jenkins and Basch were on hand to discuss the creation of the series and its inspiration from the real Stede Bonnet (hint: it’s a VERY loose adaptation). The two discussed working with Waititi both from a creation standpoint but also watching him portray a very different version of Blackbeard, and also discussing how they singed Darby for the role as the perfectly hilarious Stede. From the cast, we spoke with Matthew Maher (Black Pete), Nathan Foad (Lucius), Samba Schutte (Roach), Samson Kayo (Oluwande), and Vico Ortiz (Jim/Bonifacia). The group talked about which setting was their favorite to film in since the series jumps from location to location each episode. They also discussed improv and working on a show with so many comedians. And, of course, when posed with the question of working for Blackbeard or Stede, which one did they pick?
Watch our interviews to find out!
Our Flag Means Death is now on HBO Max!
