The actor talks about the lingering ‘animosity’ toward Clark in season 2’s family reunion airing tonight.
In season 1, Tal-Rho, a.k.a.
Whether this family reunion proves to be a good or bad thing remains to be seen.
Tyler Hoechlin as Superman and Adam Rayner as Tal-Rho in ‘Superman & Lois’ season 1.Bettina Strauss/The CW
ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY: What discussions did you have with Todd about your performance as Tal-Rho coming into season 2?
ADAM RAYNER:Well, the honest answer is none at all.
Todd’s a very busy man obviously, and had lots of things to think about.
Adam Rayner as Tal-Rho in ‘Superman & Lois’ season 1.Bettina Strauss/The CW
So we didn’t really discuss it.
I heard rumors that there might be a reappearance relatively early on.
And then of course, we talked once that became a reality.
And I was thrilled and surprised.
So, I wasn’t expecting such a quick return.
So yeah, I was really happy that that has happened.
His plan to revive Kryptonians on Earth failed.
Where’s his mind at when meet him in season 2?
He’s in his little cell as we see.
And I think he’s catching up on some reading.
He has got some time on his hands now that he’s not actively involved in planning world domination.
The fire, the spirit has not gone out.
So it’s a period of reflection, certainly.
He’s got books to read and a lot of thinking time.
Does part of that planning involve getting revenge on his brother?
How have his feelings towards Kal-El changed or not?
The animosity is still there.
He’s perhaps not driven solely by personal revenge and a vendetta against his brother.
I think ultimately, his ultimate goal is to bring his brother around to his way of thinking.
He wants a relationship with his brother.
He needs his brother.
He’s the only family he’s got.
He’s not prepared to reject him finally and completely.
He wants to find a way for them to be on the same side.
Now, it has to be on his terms.
But no, I don’t think he’s motivated by revenge.
He wants to find a way for them to be a team, to be a family.
But of course, he wants to set the agenda.
So, he definitely sees Kal coming to him for help with these visions as an opportunity?
[He’s thinking], “This is great.”
I think he probably genuinely wants to be of assistance.
Is it fair to say Tal-Rho is essentially like Superman’s Hannibal Lechter this season?
Well, that reference is apt and inevitable, given the surroundings in which he goes to see him.
So yeah, I am Hannibal Lecter to his Clarice Starling [Laughs].
Do you think that comparison is apt for them?
I’m no great authority on those films or that relationship.
They go round in circles, basically.
They’re bound together, but they’re pulling, pushing each other away.
And it’s this strange dance that goes on and on and on.
I think in that sense, yes, it is a similar relationship.
We know Doomsday is coming this season.
As much as you’re allowed to say, does Tal figure into that in any way?
I provide assistance to Kal.
Better way to put it is we find ourselves for us together again.
The exact nature of his involvement….
I don’t know that yet, but we do continue to get thrown together.
The big thing is that we get to [see] another emotional hole in Tal’s life.
Superman & Loisairs Tuesdays at 8 p.m. on The CW.
