The Good Place is one of those shows that you watch when you’re feeling a bit sad, or down, the type that you know will always put a smile on your face, one way or another. But it’s not just that, as anyone who watched Season 1 knows. It’s also a really, really smart, heartfelt show that, at times, can make you think long and hard about life.
For those of you who know nothing about the show, The Good Place follows Eleanor (Kristen Bell), a recently deceased woman who wakes up in the afterlife and is sent by Michael (Ted Danson) to ‘The Good Place’, a heaven-like utopia, in reward for her righteous life. However, she quickly realizes she was sent there by mistake and must hide her morally imperfect behavior, past and present.
Season 2 premiered last night (life after that twist …it’s weird, isn’t it?) to a lot of buzz. We had a chance to talk to Luke Guldan, who plays Chris, who becomes Eleanor’s new soulmate after Michael erases her memory in the season one finale, and he talked a little bit about his character, the concept of soulmates and why he likes to keep in shape.
Luke was recently seen in the indie film “The Broken Ones”. His TV credits include: “Broad City”, “Law & Order: SVU”, “Blue Bloods”, “Gossip Girl” and “The Colbert Report”. On the silver screen, Luke has lead roles in the upcoming feature films “The Tailor’s Apprentice” and “ADDicted”. He was also a lead in the 2012 horror film “The Watermen.”
Tell us a little bit about your character on The Good Place. What makes Chris a good character to play?
I play Chris Baker – Eleanor’s new soulmate. He’s a good guy living afterlife to the fullest. He’s all about Eleanor and staying fit.
Do you believe in the concept of soulmates? What makes Chris such a good soulmate for Eleanor?
I definitely believe in the concept of soulmates. I think a soulmate is someone you really connect with, beyond the normal concepts and ideas of a relationship beyond the physical and into the metaphysical. The idea of soul mates is so far out! And Chris is such a good soulmate because it’s important to him, it’s his priority and because he listens. You’ll have to wait and see and decide for yourself.
What do you like doing more, TV or movies? Why?
I really enjoy the process of both. But it would be an awesome experience to grow with a character on a series over the years.
Why should people watch The Good Place?
The Good Place is just a really complete show. It’s entertaining, funny, smart and wholesome. And it’s 30 minutes so you can bang out episodes easy while doing your cardio!
What has been your favorite TV role to play?
Every role has been a favorite in it’s own way. But working on Law & Order: SVU was definitely a personal favorite. It’s a show that has so much history around it. So growing up in NYC and getting an opportunity to work on it finally, was a lot of fun.
Talk to us about “The Broken Ones” – what makes this movie unique? Why should people watch it?
The Broken Ones is a film about family and overcoming personal tragedy. It’s primarily about a young woman’s (Cece King) struggle with the loss of her father in the World Trade Center attacks and dealing with where she is in life leading up to the 10 year anniversary of 9/11. Even though it’s a story based around tragedy, it shows hope and joy and adventure amidst the struggle.
Why is fitness so important to you?
Because without your health, you can’t do anything.
How do you feel about being a heartthrob?
Nice.
What is something people would be surprised to know about you?
I love carbs.
The Good Place premiered Wednesday, September 20th, at 10/9c on NBC.