Share this @internewscast.com
Paul Mescal has risen to fame, capturing audiences with his transformative role in “Gladiator II” and his stellar portrayal of William Shakespeare in “Hamnet.” While his cinematic endeavors are well-known, Mescal has also made his mark on television, notably appearing in the crime thriller miniseries “The Deceived.” Unfortunately, American fans might find it challenging to watch this series, as it is not accessible in the U.S. However, it can be streamed for free in the UK.
“The Deceived” centers on Ophelia, played by Emilie Reid, who is entangled in the mystery of her missing lover, Michael, portrayed by Emmett J. Scanlan, a married professor who disappears under suspicious circumstances. Over four episodes, Ophelia uncovers secrets about Michael’s wife, revealing a storyline where nothing is as it appears. Mescal plays Sean, a character whose role isn’t central to the plot. The Irish Times describes Mescal as “charismatic,” despite Sean’s more peripheral involvement in the show’s complex narrative. “The Deceived” first aired on Channel 5 in the UK in 2020.
Mescal’s career skyrocketed in 2020 with his role in the drama miniseries “Normal People,” adapted from Sally Rooney’s acclaimed novel. In the series, Mescal portrays Connell Waldron, a popular athlete who engages in a covert relationship with Marianne, played by Daisy Edgar-Jones, the daughter of his family’s housekeeper. The series explores their evolving relationship through the trials of university life, ultimately leading to a hopeful conclusion for the couple.
“Normal People” was lauded for its faithful adaptation of the novel’s often somber and unsettling themes, especially as Connell navigates personal challenges and Marianne deals with controlling partners. The performances by Mescal and Edgar-Jones received high praise, with the series being credited for launching their careers into the spotlight.
Paul Mescal’s other 2020 miniseries overshadowed The Deceived
Hulu/Enda Bowe
While “The Deceived” debuted in the late summer of 2020, “Normal People” was released in April, capturing the attention of viewers during lockdowns. U.S. audiences had easy access to “Normal People” via Hulu, BBC Three, and Ireland’s RTÉ One, but “The Deceived” didn’t have the same reach, leaving American viewers unable to explore this part of Mescal’s expanding repertoire.
“Normal People” received acclaim for how well it captured the tone of the book, which at times can feel bleak and unnerving, particularly as Connell works through different events in his personal life and Marianne becomes involved with controlling men. Mescal and Edgar-Jones’s performances were praised, with the miniseries being widely credited for catapulting both of their careers.
“The Deceived” came out in late summer 2020, while “Normal People” was an April release, benefiting from a quarantined audience. Even then, U.S. viewers had no way to watch “The Deceived,” while “Normal People” was simultaneously on Hulu, BBC’s Channel Three, and Ireland’s RTÉ One. Despite having more eyes on him, “The Deceived” was overshadowed, and now isn’t available for those in the United States who want to dive into Mescal’s growing filmography.
