In the latest season of Netflix’s political action thriller, The Night Agent, Gabriel Basso continues to push his limits as Peter Sutherland. The actor has been dedicated to performing his own stunts and participating in intense action sequences since the show's first season. This commitment to authenticity aims to provide a seamless viewing experience for audiences. In an interview with PEOPLE, Basso shared insights into the challenges and rewards of bringing Peter’s gritty encounters to life. One of the most memorable fight scenes occurs in episode four, where Peter goes undercover at a diplomatic event and faces off against adversaries in a tense basement confrontation. The production team’s collaboration with experts from the John Wick franchise significantly enhanced the realism and intensity of these sequences.

Basso's dedication to performing his own stunts is evident throughout the second season. From brutal hand-to-hand combat to navigating tight spaces, he strives to ensure that viewers feel fully immersed in the action. Initially, Basso found the script for the fourth episode unremarkable until a surprising connection to the John Wick series elevated the scene. The handheld camera work by the same operator who worked on John Wick brought an unprecedented level of dynamism to the shoot. “It makes it a better experience,” Basso remarked, highlighting how this collaboration improved both the on-set atmosphere and the final product. The stuntmen and camera operators played crucial roles in making the action sequences believable and thrilling.

Despite the excitement, the physical toll of filming such intense scenes is significant. Basso admitted to feeling nervous before each fight sequence, noting that replicating realistic movements without causing harm requires careful coordination. He praised the stunt team and camera operators for their expertise, especially during the basement fight scene in episode four. “You should see these guys work with handheld cameras—it’s wild,” he said, emphasizing the skill required to capture the chaos while ensuring safety. Even with protective gear, bruises and bumps are inevitable. For instance, Basso hit his head hard during one of the basement fights but remained focused on delivering a convincing performance.

While Basso performs many stunts himself, there are moments when his stunt double, Josiah Nolan, takes over for particularly dangerous maneuvers. Trust and communication between the two are paramount. For example, Nolan performed a high-risk rooftop jump from a warehouse, ensuring the stunt was safe before allowing Basso to attempt it. “We sort of trust one another. It’s cool,” Basso explained. This collaborative approach ensures that the action remains authentic while prioritizing safety. The second season of The Night Agent showcases not only Basso’s acting prowess but also his willingness to go the extra mile for the sake of storytelling.

Ultimately, Gabriel Basso's unwavering commitment to authenticity elevates The Night Agent. His willingness to perform his own stunts and collaborate closely with the production team creates a more immersive and engaging experience for viewers. By combining raw talent with meticulous preparation, Basso brings Peter Sutherland's daring adventures to life in a way that captivates audiences and honors the craft of filmmaking.