Ashton Kutcher has shared that he delved into a manifesto written by a domestic terrorist in preparation for his latest antagonist role. The 47-year-old actor partners with Evan Peters in FX’s new body horror series called “The Beauty,” created by Ryan Murphy. The show revolves around FBI agents investigating a virus that enhances physical appearance but carries lethal consequences.
In the series, Kutcher plays Byron Forst, also known as ‘The Corporation,’ a technology tycoon responsible for creating the transformative substance central to the show’s chaos. He embodies a ruthless business magnate willing to do anything to protect his vast empire.
Before the show’s debut, Kutcher admitted to reading the manifesto penned by American terrorist Ted Kaczynski, famously known as The Unabomber. Kaczynski, who carried out a nationwide bombing campaign from 1978 to 1995, aimed at those he perceived as promoting modern technology. He was apprehended in 1996, pleaded guilty in 1998, and passed away in prison at the age of 81 in 2023.
When asked about his character’s moral stance, Kutcher discussed how reading Kaczynski’s manifesto helped him grasp the complexity of his role. He shared insights from the manifesto during a press event, highlighting the ability to understand the Unabomber’s rationale until a point where his actions became extreme.
Kutcher emphasized that every character, even perceived as villains, can justify their actions in their minds. Despite the stark differences between his character and the Unabomber, Kutcher acknowledged that his character employs morally questionable tactics under the guise of benefiting society.
The initial three episodes of “The Beauty” are currently available for streaming on Disney+.