Alexander Skarsgård on Playing TV’s Most Hated Husband

Alexander Skarsgård is no stranger to divisive roles, having recently taken on a leather-clad biker in the provocative film Pillion. Yet, there is one part in his career that stands out for the sheer level of public disdain it attracted. Between 2017 and 2019, Skarsgård portrayed Perry in the acclaimed HBO drama Big Little Lies, acting opposite Nicole Kidman as her character’s violent spouse. The series drew a vast audience, and it’s fair to say that many viewers found his character utterly detestable.

Reflecting on the experience, Skarsgård admitted,

“Yes, America, I’m sorry,”

during an appearance on the Remote Controlled podcast by Variety.

“I had no idea how hated I was.”

While he may have been modest about the impact of his performance, it’s difficult to imagine he was unaware that playing an abuser—especially during the height of the #MeToo movement—would provoke such a strong response. Unlike some actors who have faced direct hostility for their villainous roles, Skarsgård seems to have escaped the worst of it, despite his character’s actions towards Kidman’s much-loved character.

Portraying Abuse with Authenticity

Rather than resenting Skarsgård for his portrayal, perhaps audiences should recognise the value in his commitment to realism. His depiction of Perry was both convincing and nuanced, offering a window into the realities many women endure. This complexity was precisely what drew Skarsgård to the role.

“I was really intrigued by their relationship, and I thought it was an interesting opportunity to maybe try to play an abusive husband in a way that at least felt real,”

he explained.

“Sometimes I feel like it can be a bit stereotypical and a bit cliché, and this was so rich and so layered.”

It’s hardly surprising that such a character would be met with revulsion, no matter how skilfully performed. The authenticity of the portrayal only heightened the discomfort, as it mirrored situations that are all too common in real life. For many watching, the storylines may have struck a personal chord, making the viewing experience even more intense.

The Importance of Difficult Characters

Roles like Perry’s serve a crucial purpose. While it can be uncomfortable to watch, presenting the world solely through an idealised lens does little to address its complexities. There is merit in both aspirational and realistic storytelling, and Skarsgård’s work in Big Little Lies falls firmly in the latter camp. By embodying such a loathsome figure, he helped to shine a light on the realities of abusive relationships, potentially offering solace to those who have faced similar circumstances.

Characters of this nature are necessary, even if they are hard to stomach. They remind us that art can reflect the darker sides of life, not just its brighter moments. For that, perhaps Skarsgård deserves a measure of gratitude for his willingness to take on such challenging roles.