“Our Flag Means Death,” a romantic comedy series set in the Golden Age of Piracy, follows the transformation of Stede Bonnet from a gentleman to a pirate captain, leading a motley crew on various adventures. Izzy Hands, played by Con O’Neill, emerges as a central figure in this narrative. Season 2 marked a poignant turning point for Izzy, culminating in his tragic end at the hands of Prince Ricky. This season delved into Izzy’s personal growth, allowing him to confront and overcome his past trauma. O’Neill, reflecting on this journey, expressed both sadness and admiration for the character’s evolution and the writers’ vision.
Con O’Neill’s Artistic Endeavors and Perspectives
Con O’Neill, discussing his role, revealed that he was not surprised by Izzy’s fate, citing his trust in the series creator David Jenkins’ direction. He emphasized the importance of honoring the character’s journey as written, acknowledging the continuous surprises and challenges presented in the scripts. O’Neill also expressed his affection for playing Izzy, recognizing the character’s impactful narrative.
Responding to fans’ sentiments about Izzy’s departure, O’Neill encouraged trust in Jenkins’ creative decisions, assuring that the character’s fate was not taken lightly. He highlighted the emotional depth of Izzy’s final scenes, particularly a poignant eulogy, which turned out to be a defining moment. This scene was deeply influenced by director Fernando Frias’ suggestion to “let the guard down,” resulting in a performance that profoundly resonated with both O’Neill and the audience.
O’Neill also delved into the creative aspects of his role, discussing moments of improvisation. He praised the show’s exceptional writing and the collaborative process, which allowed for occasional ad-libbing while prioritizing the script’s integrity. He expressed joy in the nuanced understanding of Izzy’s character that evolved in the second season.
Izzy’s Musical and Aesthetic Transformations
A notable highlight of the season was Izzy’s musical performance in drag. O’Neill, who doesn’t speak French, learned “La Vie En Rose” in both French and English with help from his partner and a friend. He emphasized the collaborative effort in perfecting the performance, reflecting on the unexpected yet fitting choice of song for Izzy.
The process of crafting Izzy’s drag look was approached with careful consideration. O’Neill and the makeup team aimed to avoid parody, seeking instead a representation that felt like an authentic extension of Izzy’s character. This exploration led to a profound personal moment for O’Neill during filming, which deeply influenced the final look.
O’Neill also discussed Izzy’s transformation with his peg leg, viewing it as a vital aspect of his character development. This change symbolized Izzy’s journey towards self-acceptance and coming out, resonating powerfully with audiences and reflecting the broader themes of identity and transformation in the show.
Prospects for Season 3 and Building Relationships
Addressing the possibility of returning for a third season, O’Neill deferred to Jenkins’ decision-making. He emphasized the importance of “Our Flag Means Death” and its potential continuation, regardless of Izzy’s involvement. O’Neill also shared his enjoyment in building the mentorship dynamic between Izzy and Stede, played by Rhys Darby, in Season 2, praising Darby’s performance and the joy of working together.
In conclusion, Con O’Neill’s portrayal of Izzy Hands in “Our Flag Means Death” presents a complex character whose journey captivated audiences. O’Neill’s insights reveal a deep connection with his character, highlighting the thoughtful craftsmanship behind this beloved series.
