Penny Dreadful stands out as a series that, while cherished by its dedicated fans, often goes unrecognized in broader discussions of television excellence. This show is bold and inventive, fearlessly combining elements of Gothic horror and classic literature. Crafted by the talented John Logan, it deftly weaves together themes of moral complexity, graphic violence, unabashed sexuality, and a rich, immersive atmosphere. The series brings to life an array of iconic characters from the realms of classic literature who roam freely in the public domain. Among these fascinating figures are the brilliant Dr. Victor Frankenstein (Harry Treadaway), his tragic Creature (Rory Kinnear), the enigmatic Dorian Gray (Reeve Carney), and the formidable Count Dracula (Christian Camargo).

However, it is the character of Ethan Chandler who truly merits a more in-depth exploration. Portrayed by Josh Hartnett, Ethan is a modern interpretation of Lon Chaney Jr.‘s character from the classic 1941 film The Wolf Man. In essence, Ethan, whose full name is Ethan Lawrence Talbot, embodies the archetype of a Victorian rogue: a master sharpshooter and a werewolf with a dark, predatory side. Hartnett’s recent acclaim, particularly from his roles in Christopher Nolan‘s Oppenheimer and M. Night Shyamalan‘s Trap, showcases his evolving talent, with the latter performance being both haunting and captivating. Long before these projects, Hartnett carved a niche for himself in Showtime with a role that, while subtle, has been overshadowed by time since Penny Dreadful concluded its gripping three-season journey. It’s time for audiences to recognize this gun-toting, lupine, bisexual, and irresistibly charismatic character who deserves his share of the spotlight.

Discover the Intriguing Background of Ethan Chandler in ‘Penny Dreadful’

Viewers are introduced to Ethan Chandler during his days as a performer—a euphemism for a man squandering his exceptional marksmanship and potential in a traveling roadshow. When he encounters the captivating Vanessa Ives (Eva Green), who seeks a skilled gunman for a covert mission, she quickly perceives both his stage persona and the reality beneath it. Vanessa boldly confronts Ethan, labeling him as a man drowning in superficial pleasures and too willing to conceal his formidable talents and dangerous nature beneath a charming demeanor and a disarming smile. Drawn to her sharp insight as much as to her financial proposal, Ethan embarks on a late-night adventure with Vanessa that leads them straight into the heart of a vampire-infested world.

Initially, Ethan is taken aback by the horrifying specters that haunt the night, yet as a werewolf, he possesses a deep understanding of the supernatural realm and the tragic transformations that can befall humans, turning them into ravenous beasts against their will. The overarching theme of Penny Dreadful revolves around individuals marginalized by society due to their unique differences, yearning for acceptance and love. Like many of the series’ richly developed yet morally ambiguous characters, Ethan is scarred by loss, pain, and guilt, which ultimately shapes his own brutal nature. While he projects a suave and composed exterior, he grapples with an almost perpetual state of emotional turmoil.

Josh Hartnett’s Remarkable Performance as Ethan Chandler in ‘Penny Dreadful’

Hartnett, known for his choice of distinctive projects, proves to be a nuanced actor far exceeding the limitations placed on him by early 2000s Hollywood perceptions. He thrives within Penny Dreadful‘s brutally honest and deeply empathetic portrayal of those forced to navigate the fringes of society. Alongside co-star Eva Green, the series showcases the wide-ranging talents of actors who have often found themselves underutilized in major productions. Ethan walks a tightrope between the charming, earnest romantic lead and a brooding, morally complex antihero—a man who conceals his werewolf-induced struggles until circumstances compel him to confront his inner demons.

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Despite the weight of his “sins,” as he describes them, Ethan remains a deeply caring individual. His loyalty to Vanessa is unwavering, and he exhibits emotional openness with his first love, Brona Croft (Billie Piper), even when this vulnerability leads to profound heartbreak. Even when donning werewolf makeup, Hartnett’s dedication ensures that Ethan’s struggles remain engaging, avoiding any descent into campy territory. The opportunity to develop his character over three compelling seasons is a significant advantage for any actor. Hartnett’s presence is magnetic; he doesn’t overshadow his co-stars, but rather draws attention naturally.

Moreover, Ethan Chandler marks a pinnacle of Hartnett’s sex appeal on screen. With his confident demeanor, sharpshooting skills, and stylish vests paired with long coats, his on-screen chemistry with Vanessa creates an emotionally charged atmosphere. His defiance of societal norms regarding sexuality adds layers to his character, showcasing his romantic involvements with both men and women, further enriching the narrative.

Celebrating Josh Hartnett’s Stellar Performance in ‘Penny Dreadful’

In a reflective piece with Vanity Fair in mid-2024, Hartnett shared his thoughts on Penny Dreadful, elaborating on the allure of his role and his admiration for the show’s profound, metaphor-driven narrative. “He’s grappling with trauma that he can’t express,” Hartnett explained regarding Ethan’s struggle with lycanthropy, equating Chandler’s monstrous impulses to “symptoms of deeper issues like alcoholism that could be linked to more relatable human experiences.” Hartnett immersed himself in this character, showcasing unwavering commitment. The challenge of standing out alongside the mesmerizing Green and a cast of reimagined horror icons is no small feat, yet Hartnett’s performance rises to the occasion, deserving of recognition and praise.

Penny Dreadful is now available for streaming on Paramount+.

Watch on Paramount+