Tobias Santelmann is having a moment. The Norwegian actor is currently captivating audiences as the iconic detective Harry Hole in Netflix’s new series, Jo Nesbøs Harry Hole, a production reported to be the most expensive TV series ever made in Norway, with a budget around 500 million kroner (approximately $46.5 million USD). But the buzz around Santelmann doesn’t stop there. He’s similarly recently landed a role in the highly anticipated second season of HBO’s The White Lotus, further cementing his rising profile on the international stage.
The premiere of Harry Hole has been met with considerable attention, not just for its scale, but also for the surprisingly positive reception during filming. Santelmann revealed that unlike many productions which can disrupt daily life, the series garnered a unique level of public engagement. This positive atmosphere, coupled with his new role in a critically acclaimed HBO series, marks a significant period in Santelmann’s career.
A Warm Welcome from Oslo Residents
Santelmann shared an anecdote about filming a nighttime scene outside Oslo’s famed Restaurant Schrøder, a location central to the Harry Hole universe. The scene required extensive lighting and sound equipment, typically a source of frustration for nearby residents. Yet, the actor described a scene far from the usual complaints. “We were filming a fight scene, and people on the other side of the street had brought popcorn and were watching the live take,” Santelmann told Nettavisen. He noted that while film crews often face irritation from locals due to disruptions, this production was met with an unusual amount of enthusiasm.
This unexpected support speaks to the enduring popularity of Jo Nesbø’s novels and the anticipation surrounding the adaptation. The Harry Hole series, based on Nesbø’s best-selling crime novels, has a dedicated following, and the production team seemed to benefit from a community eager to witness the story come to life. The series, streaming now on Netflix, has already sparked conversation online, with viewers praising the atmospheric recreation of Oslo and Santelmann’s portrayal of the troubled detective.
Embodying the Enigmatic Harry Hole
Co-star Ingrid Bolsø Berdal, who plays Harry Hole’s colleague Ellen Gjelten, spoke to the challenges of acting opposite Santelmann, particularly given the character of Hole’s notoriously aloof personality. “I am so proud of my colleague Tobias Santelmann and the job he has done,” Berdal said to Nettavisen. “I play his closest colleague in the Oslo police, and Harry Hole has a reputation for not being very social.”
Berdal explained that Santelmann’s naturally warm and approachable demeanor required her to constantly recalibrate her performance. “The first time, I had to remind myself that my character knows he is distant, but I am used to Tobias being one of the kindest and warmest guys in the world,” she explained. “It’s very different from Tobias, but he plays the role very well.” This highlights Santelmann’s commitment to fully inhabiting the complex and often unlikeable character of Harry Hole, a detective haunted by his demons and driven by an unwavering pursuit of justice.
The role is a departure for Santelmann, who has previously been recognized for roles in films like The King’s Choice (2017) and the series Home for Christmas. His ability to convincingly portray such a troubled character demonstrates his range as an actor and signals a potential shift towards more complex and challenging roles.
Expanding Horizons with The White Lotus
Adding to the momentum, Santelmann’s casting in the second season of The White Lotus, the acclaimed HBO series created by Mike White, has generated significant excitement. As reported by Nettavisen, details about his role remain scarce, but the series is known for its sharp social commentary and ensemble cast. The first season, set in Hawaii, garnered critical acclaim and multiple Emmy Awards. The second season, filmed in Sicily, Italy, is expected to continue the show’s exploration of wealth, privilege, and the complexities of human relationships.
The White Lotus is known for its ability to launch the careers of its cast members, and Santelmann’s involvement suggests a deliberate move towards broader international recognition. The series’ success on HBO and its streaming availability through Max (formerly HBO Max) will expose Santelmann to a significantly larger audience.
The success of Jo Nesbøs Harry Hole and the anticipation surrounding his role in The White Lotus position Tobias Santelmann as one of Norway’s most promising exports. His ability to connect with audiences, coupled with his dedication to his craft, suggests a long and successful career ahead. Fans of the actor can expect to see more of him on screen as he continues to take on challenging and compelling roles.
The next step for Santelmann will be the premiere of The White Lotus Season 2 on HBO and Max, scheduled for October 30, 2023. Further updates on his career and future projects can be found through his representatives and official HBO/Netflix announcements.
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