Billy Crystal Takes Darker Leading Role in Apple TV+ Series ‘Before’, Surprising Even Himself

Billy Crystal is set to showcase a darker side in the upcoming Apple TV+ psychological thriller, "Before," a departure from his usual light-hearted roles in films like "When Harry Met Sally" and "Monsters Inc." In this series, Crystal portrays Eli, a child psychiatrist grappling with personal loss who forms a bond with a troubled young boy named Noah, played by Jacobi Jupe. As the two characters navigate their complex relationship, they confront haunting memories and unearth unsettling secrets from the past.

Crystal revealed that the development of "Before" took various twists and turns before reaching its current form. Initially, he and collaborator Eric Roth worked on a project called "Death Bed," inspired by Crystal’s grandmother’s life story. However, they struggled to solidify the narrative. A pivotal moment occurred when Crystal recommended a book to a colleague, sparking a discussion on past lives and leading to the creation of the concept for "Before."

Sarah Thorp joined the project as the series’ creator and showrunner, crafting a narrative that intrigued Crystal. Impressed by Thorp’s vision, Crystal decided to take on the challenging role of Eli in the series, despite initially not seeking such a departure from his usual comedic roles. Thorp’s script, which Crystal reviewed while performing on Broadway, delved into a mysterious and surreal world, setting the stage for a unique viewing experience.

Thorp emphasized the evolving dynamic between Eli and Noah, highlighting their struggle to communicate effectively amidst personal turmoil. The character of Eli, a staunch believer in science and facts, finds himself confronted with inexplicable phenomena, adding layers of intrigue to the storyline.

Crystal acknowledged that "Before" represents a significant departure from his previous roles, aligning with his desire to tackle challenging and unexpected characters. Drawing parallels to his recent projects like "Standing Up, Falling Down" and "Here Today," Crystal emphasized the importance of growth and exploration in his acting career. Working alongside a talented ensemble cast, Crystal found the experience of portraying Eli both physically and emotionally demanding yet rewarding.

Looking ahead, Crystal expressed a desire to continue pursuing roles that offer new challenges and opportunities for personal growth. With "Before" set to premiere on Apple TV+, audiences can anticipate a captivating and thought-provoking journey into the depths of human emotion and connection.