AceShowbiz - Phil Dunster returns to HBO with a fresh, antagonistic role in the comedy series Rooster, co-created by Bill Lawrence and Matt Tarses. The show follows Dunster as Archie, a Russian history professor at Ludlow College, whose life spirals into chaos following a controversial breakup and unexpected complications on campus.

Before the premiere of Rooster, ScreenRant’s Liam Crowley spoke with Dunster, Lawrence, and Tarses to explore the character’s complexities and how he contrasts with Dunster’s previous roles. Archie is introduced as an egotistical figure who firmly believes he is “the best, the smartest and the prettiest” among those around him. Dunster elaborated that Archie’s self-assurance stems from a genuine belief that he deserves all the good fortune in his life, which creates a rather off-putting persona for viewers.

"He really does think that he's the best," Dunster explained, emphasizing the character’s inflated self-view. This arrogance sets Archie up for a harsh clash with reality, marking his first real reckoning with consequences that will shape his journey throughout the series.

Living on campus with other characters adds to the tension and comedic potential of the show. Dunster described the setting of on-campus housing as a "really delicious" environment, providing fertile ground for the storytelling and character interactions in Rooster.

When comparing Archie to Dunster’s celebrated Ted Lasso character, Jamie Tartt, both Dunster and co-star Danielle Deadwyler agreed that Archie is “the complete opposite.” Unlike Jamie, who experienced a significant redemption arc over three seasons, Archie’s path is less likely to offer the same kind of heartfelt transformation.

Bill Lawrence, known for creating both Ted Lasso and Scrubs, humorously admitted that he often reuses actors he enjoys working with. He noted that Dunster initially fooled him with an accent, as Archie’s posh, pompous tone starkly contrasts with Jamie Tartt’s blue-collar Manchester style. Lawrence praised Dunster’s ability to play a charming yet detestable cad.

Matt Tarses, co-creator of Rooster, shared his admiration for Dunster’s range as an actor. Working with Dunster for the first time, Tarses was unaware of the actor’s capacity to portray such a villainous character while still maintaining audience affection. His goal was to cast someone who could convincingly be “dastardly” yet remain lovable, a challenge Dunster meets with ease.

The first episode of Rooster, titled "Release the Brown Fat," sets the stage for Archie’s complicated relationships. After leaving his wife, fellow professor Katie, for a graduate student named Sunny, Archie faces turmoil when Katie’s father, a bestselling novelist named Greg, arrives on campus to support her. The tension escalates as Archie reveals Sunny’s pregnancy during a confrontation with Katie, leading to a dramatic incident where Sunny burns his rare first edition of War & Peace, resulting in a fire that destroys his house.

Rooster airs new episodes Sundays at 10 p.m. EST on HBO and HBO Max.