In a few short years, Joe Locke has risen from his debut in the global Netflix hit Heartstopper to a pivotal role as Billy Maximoff in Marvel’s Agatha All Along, fulfilling a lifelong “nerd’s” dream.
Locke admits he’s not good at keeping secrets, revealing he told friends and family about his role in Agatha All Along and even some plot twists, despite Marvel’s notorious secrecy. He even secretly photographed his superhero costume.
Since filming Agatha All Along, Locke has filmed more Heartstopper seasons and made his Broadway debut in Sweeney Todd, receiving advice from co-star Patti LuPone. The young gay actor from the Isle of Man is now looking to star in a horror film.
During an interview with The Playlist, Locke discussed balancing the dual nature of his Agatha character, Billy’s guilt, working with Kathryn Hahn, his lifelong Marvel contract, and the conclusion of Heartstopper.
Locke explained that he gradually realized he was auditioning for Billy Maximoff in Agatha All Along over a five-month audition process, despite the role not being explicitly confirmed until later stages. He found the character’s dark arc and hidden complexities, particularly Billy’s subconscious control over events, to be a pleasant surprise, making the role more challenging than anticipated. He believes by the end of the show, Billy accepts both his identities as Billy Maximoff and William Kaplan. However, he doesn’t see Billy as a hero, carrying guilt for the accidental deaths of his friends.
Locke, a self-proclaimed theater kid and Patti LuPone superfan, was thrilled to learn she was cast in Agatha All Along. He later sought her advice for his Broadway debut in Sweeney Todd.
He found keeping Marvel secrets harder than those for Heartstopper due to the intense fan scrutiny. He described his Agatha experience as the “best six months of his life,” growing significantly as both a person and an actor. He noted the prevalence of improv, particularly from Kathryn Hahn and Aubrey Plaza, and was proud when his own improv lines made it into the show.
Looking ahead, Locke wants to explore more film roles, specifically a horror movie where his character meets a gruesome end, and roles that are “against type,” like a “straight bro role.” He also confirmed his lifelong Marvel contract means he’s “in limbo” for future appearances as Billy. Locke felt pressure portraying Billy, an iconic LGBTQ+ character, aiming to honor fan interpretations while staying true to his instincts. He was particularly touched by fans who saw themselves in Billy and the Young Avengerscomics.
Regarding the end of Heartstopper, Locke stated that the cast’s busy schedules necessitated a final movie instead of another season to ensure everyone could participate and give the story a fitting cinematic conclusion.
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