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The introduction of the character Harry Bosch graced our screens back in 2014, and as we approach 2024, Titus Welliver’s portrayal of the retired LAPD detective turned private investigator continues to enthrall audiences. In the upcoming second season of Bosch: Legacy, a spin-off and follow-up to the original Bosch series that ran for seven seasons on Prime Video, Collider’s Chris McPherson engaged in a conversation with Tom Bernardo, a co-showrunner, executive producer, and writer on the series, delving into the character’s enduring appeal and what makes him so engaging to viewers.
Bernardo asserted, “I think Michael [Connelly, author of the Bosch novel series] has created one of the most compelling detective characters in the contemporary scene. And I’ve said this before, I really believe that character, when it’s all said and done, will stand shoulder to shoulder with the greats, from Raymond Chandler on down.”
He went on to commend Welliver’s screen presence, highlighting his acting style, which is often concise, even terse, as it amplifies the character’s idiosyncrasies. This allows Harry Bosch to feel authentic, relatable, and familiar to audiences year after year. His unwavering dedication to his daughter Maddie (Madison Lintz) also adds depth to the character.
Furthermore, Bosch grapples with profound darkness in his past, including the tragic loss of his mother and the harrowing crimes he’s confronted with in his role as a homicide detective. Bernardo emphasized that his ability to persevere through these challenges showcases a remarkable fortitude that resonates with viewers.
Bernardo pointed out that Connelly has crafted a character that possesses archetypal qualities while also exhibiting real complexity in Welliver’s portrayal. Titus Welliver’s performance, characterized by a laconic nature, complements the character’s persona. Through his eyes, he conveys a world scarred by wounds and traumas, adding an air of mystery to the character. As each season unfolds, more facets of Bosch are revealed, especially in the heightened circumstances that kick off Season 2.
The journey with Bosch, according to Bernardo, is an exploration of a character who adheres to a code, is shaped by institutional forces, and grapples with a traumatic past. As a homicide detective, he seeks justice in the shadows of Los Angeles, and now, in his post-law enforcement life as a private investigator, he navigates the complexities of parenthood with his daughter patrolling the streets of LA.
Bastin chimed in, emphasizing that Bosch’s unwavering commitment to doing what’s right, regardless of the means, positions him as a figure almost beyond politics. Regardless of one’s political stance, Bosch champions justice, making him a character viewers naturally rally behind.
Moreover, Bosch’s stance transcends political divides; he stands with the weak, indifferent to politics, race, or profession. He treats everyone equitably, and if someone has been wronged, he’s resolute in setting things right, even if it means enduring immense challenges.
In the turbulent world we live in, this steadfastness and commitment to doing what’s inherently right are a rarity, making Harry Bosch an immensely likable character. Bastin noted that Connelly’s creation resonated with him personally, as Bosch embodies the kind of person you’d want by your side in a crisis. Someone who steps up to say, ‘I’ll fix this for you.’ This, at its core, is what endears Harry Bosch to audiences.
Bosch: Legacy can be streamed on Amazon Freevee every Friday, from October 20 until November 10. The character of Harry Bosch, created by Michael Connelly, indeed stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of great detective fiction, ranking alongside the genre’s most iconic figures.