Nandor the Relentless? More Like Nandor the…Undecisive: An Interview with Kayvan Novak on What We Do in the Shadows Season Six
Kayvan Novak, the charismatic actor behind the perpetually bewildered yet endearing vampire Nandor the Relentless in FX’s What We Do in the Shadows, recently sat down with io9 to discuss the upcoming sixth season. The interview reveals a fascinating glimpse into Nandor’s evolving character arc, his complicated relationship with Guillermo, and the surprising comedic turns the season holds. Prepare for a deeper dive into the mind (and questionable decisions) of one of television’s most beloved undead.
The interview kicks off with a discussion of Nandor’s unexpected foray into impressionism, specifically a surprisingly accurate impersonation of Richard Nixon. When asked about his preparation for this scene, Novak responded, “I didn’t. I was aware of Richard Nixon, but I guess the movie Good Morning Vietnam was really [where I got most of my awareness] of him and his character and people making fun of him. Robin Williams does an impression of him and he cuts that interview up to make him sound ridiculous.” This reveals a surprising lack of meticulous preparation, suggesting that Novak’s comedic timing and natural talent propelled his performance. He then humorously adds, “But no one listens to me. So I just went and did it anyway.” This perfectly encapsulates Nandor’s own personality: impulsive, occasionally absurd, and yet somehow endearing.
The conversation then shifts to Nandor’s existential crisis, spurred by the return of his long-dormant roommate, Jerry. Jerry’s reappearance highlights Nandor’s significant shift from the "Relentless" persona of his past. Novak attributes this change to several factors, stating, “I guess living in Staten Island, doing less pillaging and massacring, probably has softened his edges a little bit…The influence of Guillermo probably made him see things a different way because he secretly cares about this familiar, this human being, that he kind of pretends he doesn’t care about.” This underscores the subtle yet significant influence Guillermo has had on Nandor’s character development, forcing him to confront his own complexities and emotions. The 700 years of existence, spent largely in relative peace, seem to have fundamentally altered Nandor’s approach to life and relationships.
The core of Nandor’s arc in season six centers on his strained relationship with Guillermo, the familiar who has, up until now, been the backbone of Nandor’s existence. Novak describes their dynamic as "Nandermo," the affectionate shorthand for the fan-favorite pairing, but points out the changed dynamic. Guillermo’s decision to no longer aspire to vampirism changes the power dynamic substantially. “Guillermo doesn’t really need Nandor anymore because he doesn’t want to be a vampire anymore. That was Nandor’s leverage on him, and now that’s gone. Nandor’s kind of been dumped, really—and I think without letting on that he gives a shit, he clearly gives a shit and acts accordingly.” This highlights the unexpected vulnerability beneath Nandor’s often-absurd exterior, suggesting that his "fucking with" Guillermo is actually a veiled attempt to maintain a connection.
The interview also delves into Nandor’s ongoing, often farcical, rivalry with Nadja. Novak describes their dynamic as a "sibling rivalry," characterized by "disrespect and disdain" yet underpinned by an underlying desire for common goals. He explains that the "high energy and farcical" nature of their interactions this season is a direct result of the evolving relationship. This suggests a humorous evolution of their dynamic, building upon the previous seasons’ undercurrent of sibling-like bickering. The playful competitiveness between them serves as a pivotal element in the show’s comedic structure.
When asked about his favorite aspect of playing Nandor, Novak highlights the character’s indecisiveness, stating, “Indecisiveness—in a world where making decisions is important. And when [Nandor] did [make a decision], making the wrong decisions is always a joy to play. A real holiday from being a grown up.” This observation unveils a significant layer of Nandor’s comedic appeal: his constant struggle with simple choices becomes a constant source of unexpected and highly entertaining consequences. His inability to make sound judgments provides fertile ground for the show’s comedic sensibilities, turning his flaws into strengths.
The interview concludes with a charming tidbit: Novak reveals he stole a portrait of Nandor from the set and proudly displays it in his home. This personal touch serves as a fitting end to the conversation, emphasizing the actor’s genuine affection for the character he portrays and the lasting impact the show has had on him.
In conclusion, the interview with Kayvan Novak offers insightful commentary on What We Do in the Shadows season six. It showcases the intentional evolution of Nandor’s character, highlighting his burgeoning self-awareness, his complex relationship with Guillermo, and his ongoing comedic rivalry with Nadja. The interview ultimately underscores the strength of the show’s writing and the exceptional performance of its cast, setting the stage for what promises to be a hilarious and emotionally resonant final season. The interview underscores the show’s ability to blend slapstick comedy with genuine emotional depth, making it a truly unique and compelling television experience. The upcoming season promises to deliver a fitting conclusion to the vampire roommates’ Staten Island saga, one filled with laughs, unexpected twists and, of course, Nandor’s uniquely endearing brand of chaos.
