‘Don’t Even Know How He Comes Up with These Things’: Niecy Nash-Betts Shares Her Reaction to Reading Grotesquerie Script for First Time

As an avid fan of compelling storytelling and captivating performances, I am beyond thrilled about Niecy Nash-Betts‘ latest role in Ryan Murphy’s chilling new series, Grotesquerie! Having followed her career since her Reno 911 days, it’s incredible to see her take on such a challenging and dynamic character as Detective Lois Tryon.


Actress Niecy Nash-Betts, who recently won her first Emmy for her role as whistleblower neighbor Glenda Cleveland in Netflix’s Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story, is returning with a new character in another Ryan Murphy horror production titled Grotesquerie. In this film, she portrays Detective Lois Tryon who partners with Sister Megan Duval (played by Micaela Diamond), a nun-journalist, to investigate the reasons behind a string of gruesome murders that could potentially be connected to supernatural occurrences.

Tyron juggles hunting a serial killer, dealing with family issues with her daughter, and handling her husband’s long-term hospitalization.

Based on both the title and the recently unveiled trailer, it’s evident that the show explores topics such as cult behavior and various spiritual supernatural activities. When Nash-Betts initially read the script, she found its dark themes quite unsettling. In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, she candidly confessed that her “reaction was akin to having her head abruptly separated from her body.

In a conversation with the director, she asked, “Where does this originated from, Ryan? What kind of person are you beneath your exterior? What’s going on inside your mind?” Later, he responded, “I’m not sure. That’s just who I am.” The actress from Reno 911: Miami admitted that she felt apprehensive after reading the script as it was a significant challenge for her, given that she was portraying Lois – the officer who had to delve into and observe the gruesome events.

Taking on Lois was going to challenge me and my abilities, so I declared, ‘I’m ready to step up. I’m ready to take the lead. Let’s get this done,'” she stated further. When inquired about what attracted her to the role, Betts explained that she enjoys tackling new roles. “She’s a deeply troubled and tormented character, yet she carries a significant burden and must attempt to halt the murders,” she said.

The actress mentioned that her character experiences “a degree of mental exhaustion and distress,” as well. Overall, her character was complex and distinct, encountering various hardships throughout her life, which kept Nash Betts captivated.

Grotesquerie will be released on September 25. 

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2024-09-06 22:52