With a remarkable ten Emmy nominations and three wins under his belt, Sterling K. Brown has solidified his place as one of television’s most revered actors. Known for his deeply emotional and introspective performances, particularly as Randall Pearson in the Emmy-winning series This Is Us, Brown now takes on an entirely different persona in Hulu’s Paradise—a high-stakes political thriller that challenges both his range and his resilience.

In Paradise, Brown plays Xavier Collins, a Secret Service agent at the center of an intense investigation into the assassination of a U.S. president. The show reunites him with This Is Us creator and showrunner Dan Fogelman, making it an anticipated collaboration for fans of the duo’s previous work. In an exclusive interview with Emmy magazine, Brown and Fogelman dive into the ambitious scope of the series, its thought-provoking themes, and the demanding nature of Brown’s newest role.

A Reluctant Return to Television

Despite the success and acclaim he earned in television, Brown was initially hesitant to return to another series. The long hours and time away from his family were significant factors in his decision-making process. “Dan asked me,” Brown reveals. “And when Dan asks, it’s hard to say no.” While he intentionally distanced himself from Randall Pearson after This Is Us ended, he was drawn to Paradise because of its sharp storytelling and its departure from his previous work.

A Sci-Fi Thriller Rooted in Political and Social Commentary

Set in a futuristic world, Paradise imagines a pseudo-utopia built by tech billionaire Samantha Redmond (Julianne Nicholson) as a subterranean escape from climate catastrophe. However, as the murder investigation unfolds, it becomes evident that this “paradise” may not be as ideal as it seems.

“While our world is fictional and bears no resemblance to any real figures, there’s an undeniable connection between politics and capitalism,” Brown says. “The undue influence of the wealthy over political agendas is something that’s very much reflected in both reality and the world of Paradise.”

To construct the show’s immersive universe, the production team consulted with futurists, architects, and environmental specialists. Fogelman shares, “We had a sociologist write a 25-page dissertation on what a functioning underground city would require—government structure, legal systems, even the psychological impact on residents. Even if the audience doesn’t see all those details, they inform the story in ways that make it feel lived-in and real.”

Stepping Into the Mind of a Secret Service Agent

To embody the role of Xavier, Brown took a hands-on approach to research, immersing himself in the world of law enforcement. “I’d just roll up on a security [guard] and ask, ‘What’s up, bro? Where do you keep your hands? What’s your thought process? What sets off your instincts?’” he says. “Playing someone who’s constantly on guard requires a different energy than anything I’ve done before.”

His commitment to the role has not gone unnoticed. Co-star James Marsden, who portrays President Cal Bradford, speaks highly of Brown’s on-screen presence. “The moment Dan told me Sterling was involved, I was in,” Marsden shares. “Actors like Sterling elevate every scene. He has this raw intensity that makes his performances captivating.”

Embracing the Evolution of His Career

At 48, Brown is relishing the challenge of evolving his career. “I’m trying to be here for at least 100 years,” he says with a smile. “This role is a natural progression for me. Earlier in my career, it might have felt overwhelming, but now I feel like I’m exactly where I’m supposed to be.”

As Paradise continues to captivate audiences on Hulu, Brown’s latest role marks a thrilling new chapter for the Emmy-winning actor—one that cements his reputation as one of television’s most versatile and commanding performers.

Inside the New Issue of Emmy

Alongside Brown’s cover feature, the latest issue of Emmy magazine includes:

Back in the Game: A look at Squid Game’s record-shattering success and the cast’s journey as they gear up for the highly anticipated third and final season.

Trauma Bond: The reunion of ER veterans Noah Wyle, John Wells, and R. Scott Gemmill for The Pitt, a new high-intensity medical drama set in a Pittsburgh emergency room.

New Direction: The Neighborhood star Tichina Arnold steps behind the camera for the first time, directing an episode in the sitcom’s seventh season.