17 Years Before Doctor Odyssey, Joshua Jackson Starred in this Critically Acclaimed Sci-Fi Series

A lengthy list of acting roles demonstrates an actor’s ability to sustain their career, but it’s versatility that truly signifies greatness. Some actors stick to portraying familiar versions of themselves, relying on a specific charm or character type. However, those who opt for the more challenging path – adapting, switching genres, and reshaping themselves for each role – often create the most lasting impacts. Actors like Joshua Jackson are examples of this versatile approach to acting. From teenage dramas to thought-provoking thrillers, legal series to introspective character pieces, Jackson’s career is marked by a steady yet daring choice of roles.

Currently, viewers are rekindling their appreciation for Jackson’s early career, focusing on a notable role that demonstrated he was not just a former teen idol. Seventeen years prior to his time in the futuristic world of Doctor Odyssey, Jackson portrayed Peter Bishop in one of the most innovative sci-fi series back then. This show is known as Fringe, and it continues to be one of his most praised performances up until now.

Joshua Jackson Crossed Dimensions From Sci-Fi To Sea

Jackson’s Journey Started 17 Years Ago

Currently, Jackson stars on-screen as Max Bankman in the series titled “ Doctor Odyssey “, where he portrays the chief medical officer aboard The Odyssey, a lavish cruise ship. Accompanying him are nurses Avery and Tristan; this trio forms an intriguing romantic dynamic. As part of the crew, Max becomes acquainted with providing healthcare at sea through a sequence of events. In the initial episodes of “ Doctor Odyssey “, Max is hesitant to disclose his past experiences – the emotional turmoil from being among the first Americans to contract COVID-19 led him to embrace happiness and avoid dwelling on the past.

As Max’s bond with Avery and Tristan strengthens, we get a better understanding of his authentic personality. He is a family-oriented individual who values monogamy, maintaining a blend of traditional and progressive views, and standing firm by his convictions. Notably, Max has taken on significant roles in television over the past decade. Before Max, he was renowned as Pacey Witter on Dawson’s Creek, which concluded in 2003. He also held key parts in The Affair (from 2014 to 2019) and Little Fires Everywhere, a miniseries that debuted in 2020. However, his most prominent role was in the popular sci-fi series that aired for five seasons from 2008 to 2013.

What Was the Fox Sci-Fi Series Fringe About?

Fringe was Developed by Alex Kurtzman, Roberto Orci & J.J. Abrams

In essence, the TV show “Fringe” is designed to blend elements from “The X-Files”, “Altered State”, and “The Twilight Zone”. It centers around FBI agent Olivia Dunham (portrayed by Anna Torv), who, together with Peter Bishop (played by Jackson), delves into a string of mysterious occurrences categorized as Fringe Science. Assisting them is Walter Bishop, an accomplished Fringe Science expert and Peter’s father. In his portrayal of Bishop, Jackson depicts a character undergoing a nearly circular development.

In simpler terms, Jackson portrayed Peter as a ‘resilient’ individual. Initially, when the audience encountered Peter, they perceived him as someone completely devoid of moral compass. He seemed unfazed and willing to do or say anything to acquire what he wanted at that particular instant, which some found unsettling or redundant.

In my humble opinion as a film critic, some audience members found Peter in the series “Fringe” to primarily serve the role of questioning Walter’s abilities, challenging the notion of Fringe Science, and providing occasional wit to alleviate tension. These viewers felt that Peter lacked development, remaining perpetually skeptical while characters like Walter and Olivia, who were instrumental in resolving each episode’s anomaly, grew both intellectually and emotionally throughout the series.

Peter Had a Well-Written Character Arc

He’s a Beloved Member of the Fringe Team

As Fringe advanced and Peter adapted to his position within the team, his skepticism lessened. It became clear that much of Peter’s current suspicion towards Walter was rooted in his childhood experiences, making him capable of redemption. He wasn’t unjustifiably distrusting Walter, but rather distrusting him because Walter had let him down as a father figure when he was young. What makes Peter’s character development intricate is that he doesn’t just learn to trust Walter, but he also develops romantic feelings for Olivia.

In the TV series “Fringe,” in Season 3, Episode 22 (“The Day We Died”), we see that the character chooses to express an intense love for another woman by having children with her, sacrificing himself from existence, all for her survival. This selflessness is further demonstrated in Season 5 as Peter and Olivia collaborate tirelessly to save the world from the Observers. By the series finale, Peter transforms from a distrustful loner into a devoted father, son, and husband. Jackson, the creator of Fringe, mentioned that one aspect he was proud to pass on in his work was watching Peter’s character growth into a loving family member.

All Good Shows Come To An End

Fringe Didn’t See A Sixth Season

Regarding Fringe, its consistent high ratings and devoted audience didn’t prevent a drop in viewership throughout its five-season span. In fact, the intricate narrative made it challenging for newcomers to follow along, necessitating a start from the very first season to grasp the storyline. In 2012, despite fan protests at its termination, the writers were able to craft a series finale that provided closure to fans, thanks in part to prior knowledge of the show’s cancellation.

Regardless of future developments, Fringe’s enduring essence encompasses two fundamental aspects: the creative application of science-fiction motifs to delve into profound human questions, and the intricate portrayal of the character Peter. From its outset, Fringe examined the principles of Fringe Science, challenging the notion that the improbable is beyond the reach of science or merely a part of an uncharted scientific domain. Subsequently, it probed the plausibility of parallel realities and the potency decisions hold. The series’ most thought-provoking motif was arguably conveyed through the Observers, who served as a compelling reminder against suppressing emotion and empathy in favor of intellectual advancement.

Jackson’s portrayal of Peter being deeply etched in viewers’ minds is linked to his complex relationship with Walter. Despite Walter having destroyed Peter’s childhood, he was determined to make up for his errors. Instead of further confronting Walter, Peter focuses on forgiving and improving their bond, resulting in a powerful father-son narrative throughout the duration of Fringe. This dynamic is particularly highlighted when Walter’s final act in the series is to selflessly sacrifice himself for Peter and Olivia by passing through the wormhole without being inoculated.

The mix of science fiction elements and well-developed character stories likely contributed to Fringe‘s numerous awards: Over the course of its five seasons, Fringe garnered multiple Saturn Awards. Additionally, in 2011, it won the People’s Choice Award for Favorite Sci-Fi/Fantasy show. John Noble, who portrayed Walter, was also honored with a Critics’ Choice TV Award in 2011 for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series.

2025-05-25 17:21