Kevin Bacon is back in the spotlight with his latest series, The Bondsman, which premieres on April 3, 2025, exclusively on Prime Video. In this action-horror-thriller, Bacon takes on the role of Hub Halloran, a bounty hunter who is murdered and then resurrected by the Devil to track down escaped demons. The show, produced by Blumhouse Television, blends elements of horror, comedy, and heartfelt family moments, creating a unique viewing experience.
Within the first five minutes of The Bondsman, viewers witness Hub's gruesome death—his throat is slit from ear to ear. However, his story doesn’t end there. Instead, he is brought back to life, now tasked with the job of recapturing demons that have escaped from Hell. This quirky premise sets the tone for the series, which has drawn comparisons to shows like Ash vs. Evil Dead and Stan Against Evil.
As Hub navigates his new role, he learns that the terms of his resurrection are non-negotiable. His liaison, Midge, played by Jolene Purdy, serves as a comedic yet crucial guide through this bizarre underworld. Midge explains to Hub that the company he now works for is essentially a front for Satan, leading to a series of humorous and chaotic situations that unfold throughout the eight-episode series.
“It’s crazy. It’s funny. It’s bloody disgusting!” Bacon remarked while promoting the show, highlighting the mix of genres that make The Bondsman stand out. The cast also features Jennifer Nettles as Hub’s ex-wife Maryanne, Damon Herriman as Lucky, the man who plotted Hub’s murder, and Beth Grant as Kitty, Hub’s tough yet loving mother. The show delves into Hub’s complicated relationships with his family, particularly as he attempts to reconnect with Maryanne and their teenage son, Cade, played by Maxwell Jenkins.
Despite the supernatural elements, the series is grounded in emotional storytelling. Hub grapples with feelings of regret and the desire for redemption, making his character relatable amid the chaos of demon-hunting. Bacon expressed that this journey of atonement is central to the narrative, stating, “It’s worth it for the opportunity to make sure his loved ones know how important they are to him.”
However, The Bondsman is not without its challenges. Critics have noted that while Bacon’s performance is engaging, the show often struggles with pacing and character development. The dialogue can feel stilted, and the emotional arcs of supporting characters sometimes lack depth. Yet, Bacon’s charisma shines through, making Hub a compelling protagonist in a series that mixes horror with humor.
In a recent interview, Bacon shared his excitement about merging his acting with his musical talents for this project. He has historically kept his musical pursuits separate from his acting career, but the role of Hub, a musician who has not picked up a guitar in years, prompted him to write songs for the show. “I hope all those things happen in the comfort of your own home. You can see something funny and touching family-wise and also scary,” he said, emphasizing the unique blend of genres.
Alongside Bacon, the show features strong performances from its supporting cast. Grant’s portrayal of Kitty adds a layer of warmth and humor, while Nettles’ character Maryanne showcases her vocal talents, contributing to the series’ musical elements. The collaboration between Bacon and Nettles extends beyond the screen, as they have worked together on an album titled Hell and Back, which drops on April 4, 2025.
Bill Billions, a Huntsville native, also stars in the series as Grizzly Terral, a mysterious character that adds to the show’s eclectic mix. Billions described his experience working with Bacon as a joy, noting, “Kevin is an actor’s actor. He loves the craft, he shows up to work and he does his job.”
As the premiere date approaches, anticipation builds among fans eager to see how The Bondsman will unfold. With a mix of humor, horror, and heartfelt moments, the series promises to deliver an entertaining ride. However, some critics have expressed skepticism about its potential longevity, pointing out that despite an intriguing premise, the execution may leave viewers wanting more.
Ultimately, The Bondsman represents a bold new chapter for Kevin Bacon, who continues to evolve as an artist by blending his passions for acting and music. As he embarks on this supernatural journey, audiences will undoubtedly be captivated by Hub Halloran’s adventures, even if they find themselves questioning the series’ overall coherence.
With the combination of Bacon’s star power, a talented supporting cast, and a unique premise, The Bondsman is set to make its mark on the horror-comedy genre. Whether it becomes a cult favorite or a fleeting experiment remains to be seen, but one thing is for sure: Kevin Bacon is back, and he’s ready to kick some demon ass.
