‘How To Get Away With Murder’ star Conrad Ricamora talks about experience with hit legal drama, his character and future of show
We all know him as Oliver Hampton, from the hit legal drama on ABC, ‘HTGAWM’, currently airing Season 6. Many might not be aware that Conrad started as a guest actor on the show and his role was going to be limited to few appearances in season 1 and 2. But season 3 onward, he became not only a series regular, but his character saw immense evolution and was developed to make him an integral part of the story.
At a recent celebration of the show at the Paley Center, we had an opportunity to interact with the very talented Conrad Ricamora, who plays the character of Oliver. When we asked him about his journey throughout the seasons, he shared his story of how he had initially been considered only for the pilot episode and how showrunner Peter Nowalk loved his work and pulled him back into the show as a regular.
Oliver’s character has also grown manifold over the years. From the withdrawn, closeted gay man, who was insecure about his life and personality, to become a proud husband and also getting entwined into his husband’s complicated life Oliver has had quite a journey. As someone who brings life to this layered character, Conrad feels, “super grateful for the way it has resonated with the world audience, thanks to Netflix, that it will take many years for me to resonate with the success of my character and of the show.”
Even when he is traveling outside the United States, he has found fan-following. “I go on vacation to places like Paris and Prague, and am often stopped by fans addressing me as Oliver, and it shows how much they like the character and the show”, Conrad comments.
However, Oliver would not be himself if it was not for Connor and their relationship, which brings out the best representation of gay partners on network television. Conrad is proud about how Connor and Oliver are inspirations for people still trying to come out and be accepted universally. However, despite such sensitive shades to his character, Conrad Ricamora feels that being what 'HTGAWM' is at its core, no character is spared from imminent danger and darkness can strike anyone’s fate, as it might with Oliver and Connor.
Without revealing any spoilers, the actor commented that despite the love and bonding Oliver and Connor share with each other, their constant endeavor has been to save themselves from going to jail and they will have to wait it out to see how it all ends.