*Hill Harper says his character is the resident “contrarian” in CBS’ new drama “Limitless.”
The “CSI: NY” vet returns to the network this fall as an FBI asset experienced in testing the effects of a new mind-enhancing drug called NZT. The bureau is working with a man named Brian Sinclair (Jake McDorman), who takes the drug in order to help the FBI solve cases.
But Harper’s character isn’t so rah rah about Sinclair or his magic pills. The skepticism is based on a background that the 49-year-old Iowa City native felt compelled to craft himself.
“I play Special Agent Spellman Boyle and everything I’m about to tell you is backstory that I made up. It all may change as scripts come,” Harper cracked to journalists Monday at the Television Critics Association Summer Press Tour in Beverly Hills.
Hill explained that Boyle is an ex Navy Seal and was a wide receiver in college, a position the actor really played while attending Brown University. Hill also said he visited real FBI offices and was moved by how much the agents love the country.
“Many of them could be doing many other things and being paid much more, but they serve our country in amazing ways,” Hill said, adding Boyle is very “by the book” like the real agents he came across. But, by design, it makes the character “somewhat of a contrarian.”
Below, Hill explains exactly why Boyle’s side-eye will be watching the seemingly innocent Brian Sinclair closely throughout the series:
“Limitless,” based on the 2011 movie starring Bradley Cooper (who makes an appearance in the pilot), premieres Sept. 22 on CBS.
Watch the promo below:
