In a candid interview, actor Taylor Kitsch shares his thoughts on the upcoming reboot of the beloved series "Friday Night Lights" (FNL) and reflects on his acting career since the show's conclusion. Kitsch, who played Tim Riggins in the original series, expresses openness to making a cameo appearance but emphasizes his satisfaction with how the character's story ended. The actor also offers advice to the new cast members joining the reboot, encouraging them to embrace the creative process and take risks. Since FNL concluded its five-season run, Kitsch has collaborated extensively with director Peter Berg on various projects, showcasing his versatility as an actor by taking on diverse roles. Despite expanding his horizons, Kitsch remains proud of the impact Riggins had on his career and life.
Actor Taylor Kitsch on the Potential Return of Tim Riggins in FNL Reboot
In the crisp, cool days of early November, Taylor Kitsch found himself reflecting on the possibility of revisiting his iconic role as Tim Riggins for the highly anticipated reboot of "Friday Night Lights." The announcement of the reboot by NBC Universal in December sent waves through the entertainment industry, leading Kitsch to be bombarded with inquiries about his involvement. While he is open to making a brief appearance, perhaps as a visiting coach, Kitsch feels that the way the original series concluded was perfect. He stated, “I love the way we left it,” suggesting that any return would be minimal and purely for fun.
Kitsch’s connection to the show runs deep. Since FNL ended its five-season run in 2011, he has continued to collaborate with director Peter Berg on multiple projects, including their latest venture, Netflix’s Western drama "American Primeval." This ongoing partnership has allowed Kitsch to evolve as an actor, taking on challenging roles far removed from the football field. From playing a California Highway Patrol officer in "True Detective" to portraying cult leader David Koresh in "Waco," Kitsch has consistently sought to stretch his acting muscles.
Despite branching out into different genres, Kitsch acknowledges the lasting impact of Tim Riggins on his career. When visiting family in Vancouver over the holidays, he was approached by college students who wanted to share 28 shots with him after watching FNL on a flight. Such moments remind Kitsch of the character’s enduring appeal and the pivotal role it played in shaping his life. He moved to Montana in 2021 but still maintains close ties with his former cast mates, including Derek Phillips and Jesse Plemons, as well as frequent chats with Connie Britton.
Looking ahead to the reboot, Kitsch advises the new cast to make the show their own. “Take a swing,” he encourages, echoing the ethos of the original series where actors were given the freedom to experiment and fail without being boxed in. His hope is that the next generation of Dillon Panthers will create characters that resonate deeply with audiences, just as the original cast did.
From a journalist's perspective, Kitsch’s reflections highlight the lasting influence of "Friday Night Lights" and the importance of embracing new challenges while honoring past achievements. His journey from Tim Riggins to versatile actor demonstrates the value of taking risks and continuously evolving in one's craft. As the reboot approaches, fans can look forward to a fresh take on the beloved series, inspired by the legacy of those who paved the way.