Colman Domingo Dishes on His Hilarious Comeback in Netflix’s ‘The Four Seasons’

Heart-wrenching, somber, and intense – these are just a few descriptors of Colman Domingo’s latest roles in film and TV. However, in Netflix’s new comedy series The Four Seasons, the Emmy-winning actor showcases a lighter, more humorous side.

In a conversation with DECIDER before the show’s debut on May 1, Domingo, alongside co-stars Kerri Kenney-Silver and Marco Calvani, shared insights into his foray into comedy after impressing viewers in titles like Euphoria, Sing Sing, Rustin, and The Madness.

“I’ve been known for my roles in horror, drama, and tragedy, and now I get to just enjoy myself, wear fun sweaters, engage in clever dialogue, and just relax around a meal,” Domingo said humorously. “It’s genuinely refreshing. It feels like a real treat to just have fun here.”

“You deserve it – the chance to just relax, look great, and enjoy a simple sandwich,” added Kenney-Silver, responding to her colleague.

The Four Seasons, a modern take on the 1981 film starring Alan Alda and Carol Burnett, also features Tina Fey, Steve Carell, Will Forte, and Erika Henningsen. It centers on three couples who vacation together every quarter. While primarily a comedy, the show delves deep into the intricacies of both romantic and platonic relationships.

The trio of actors was drawn to the project by the complex dynamics at its core and the guidance of showrunners Tracey Wigfield and Lang Fisher. For Kenney-Silver, it also represented a significant personal milestone as a longtime fan of the original film.

“I’ve adored this movie and Alan [Alda] ever since I can remember,” Kenney-Silver revealed about her role as Anne, Carell’s character’s wife. “So this feels full circle, a true honor, and the stakes are incredibly high for me.”

Read on for DECIDER’s complete interview with Domingo, Kenney-Silver, and Calvani.

DECIDER: Colman, what’s it like to dive into comedy and just have fun?

DOMINGO: It’s wonderful, honestly. After being typecast in more serious roles, laughing, wearing cozy sweaters, and sharing witty exchanges while enjoying a meal feels like a gift. Also, exploring the subtle complexities of personal relationships in this context is fascinating and adds an intriguing layer to the experience. It’s not about making big, dramatic gestures, but rather about navigating the small, crucial moments with friends and loved ones. I relish this journey.

KENNEY-SILVER: You’ve truly earned this – the chance to unwind and enjoy simple pleasures.

MARCO CALVANI: And to share a laugh.

And you also got to direct an episode! How was that experience?

DOMINGO: Directing was fantastic, especially working with such open and cooperative colleagues. They trusted me, and I trusted them to deliver their best, venturing into dramatic territories they hadn’t explored before. It was a slightly different tone from the rest of the series, but I felt confident pulling those performances from them.

Regarding the original The Four Seasons, were you familiar with it?

KENNEY-SILVER: Absolutely, I watched it repeatedly as a child and became a huge Alan Alda fan. Later, I even got to work with him, which was incredible. Knowing this project was his brainchild added a lot of pressure but also made it even more special.

DOMINGO: Same here.

CALVANI: I must admit, I hadn’t seen the movie before joining the project, and by the time I was cast, it was no longer available to watch. All I knew was that I was playing what every gay man dreams of – I’m essentially the Rita Moreno to Colman Domingo’s husband. Plus, being surrounded by such iconic co-stars was immensely supportive and made the experience unforgettable.

Lastly, if you could assign a season to your character, what would it be?

DOMINGO: I’d say Danny is like summer – fun, flirty, with a sunny disposition.

KENNEY-SILVER: Anne would also be summer, though for less glamorous reasons. She’s often sweaty, dealing with frizzy hair and hot flashes.

CALVANI: I think Claude is like spring – emerging from the cold, eager to burst forth and bloom, ready to embrace the vibrancy of life and new experiences.

All eight episodes of The Four Seasons Season 1 premiere on Netflix on May 1.